Have You Got an Interview Coming Up? Avoid These Common Mistakes
One bad interview could cost you your dream job, and you may never get a second chance.
Most employers won't give you a do-over if an interview goes badly. First impressions matter, and if you don't get it right the first time, that door could close.
I get it. The fear of saying the wrong thing, stumbling over your words or freezing under pressure is real. Nerves, poor preparation or a single mistake can undo a strong application.
The good news is that most interview mistakes are easy to fix once you know what they are. Over the years I've interviewed thousands of candidates, and the same mistakes come up again and again.
Eight common interview mistakes, and how to fix them
Rambling and losing focus. Keep your answers concise and relevant to the question.
Arriving late. Plan ahead, and test your technology before a virtual interview.
Overconfidence. Show confidence, but stay humble.
No research. Learn about the organisation and the role before you walk in.
Dressing inappropriately. Dress one step above the workplace culture.
Speaking negatively about past jobs. Don't. Frame challenges as learning experiences.
Blending in. Share what makes you different and what you bring to the team.
Skipping the follow-up. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours.
Before your next interview
Prepare real examples from your own work, and practise them out loud. The STAR method (situation, task, action, result) is a simple way to structure answers to behavioural questions so they stay clear and focused.
Think about the first impression you want to make, how you will follow up, and why you are the right person for this particular role.
Have you got an interview coming up? If you would like help preparing, get in touch.
Planning your next perioperative career step
Our Theatre Nurse Career Playbook 2026 sets out pay, conditions and career structure across Australia and New Zealand.
If you would like a confidential conversation about your next career move, contact Paul on 04 355 83849 or email paul@carejobz.com
