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For many, the interview is the single most stressful part of the job search process. Any number of things can go wrong, and a big part of being successful is to avoid simple mistakes. Reduce your anxiety, and learn how to best prepare by reading the suggestions below.

Recruiters at Cal offer their Top 10 mistakes and thoughts on how to avoid making these common errors.

1. Failure to research the company: Cal recruiters say that they expect candidates to spend at least one hour doing research on their website and reading about their company via other websites such as Fortune Magazine, Bloomberg, Wetfeet Press and Vault Reports. Do your homework before the interview! Find out what the company does; for example, what products or services do they offer? It is also helpful to know about their financial stability as well as who their competitors are. One Cal recruiter stated, "If students have not taken the time to review our website and understand what we are recruiting for, they reduce their chances of continuing on through the interview process."
2. Not clear on what you're interviewing for: Be familiar with the job description. If you're unsure about what the job actually entails, talk to people (those who hold a similar position at a different company), ask the recruiter who has arranged the interview, and read up (using resources such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook). Knowing what you're interviewing for will help you connect your experiences (academic, work-related, community service, athletic, etc.) with company needs. Highlight how you're suited for that particular job based on your experiences, talents, strengths and abilities.
3. Not marketing yourself: Define yourself. What makes you stand out from others? Know your major strengths and accomplishments as they relate to the job you are applying for and the company. Learn how to convey the unique person you are (including personal attributes, not just achievements).
Interviews are an exchange of information, and not coming in with questions shows that you did not prepare for the entire interview.
4. Not asking meaningful questions: Have at least 3 thoughtful questions to ask the recruiter. Ask questions that you cannot find the answer to on the company's website. It's fine (it actually leaves a positive impression with the recruiter) to have them written down in advance and reference them at the appropriate time. Interviews are an exchange of information and a dialogue. Coming in without questions shows that either you're not serious about the employer or you didn't fully prepare for the interview.
5. Under-dressing for the interview: Professional attire and attention to detail still count. Remember that everything - your appearance, your tone of voice, your conduct - contributes to the impression (positive or negative) that you make. If you're unsure about just how dressed up you should be, err on the side of dressing more formally rather than too casually. As a general rule of thumb, wear a pressed suit and shirt and polished shoes.
6. Trying to wing the interview: Practice! Get a list of general interview questions (see the Career Center's Job Search Guide or visit our interviewing web section), a friend or a mirror, and a tape recorder, and conduct an interview rehearsal. Practice until your delivery feels comfortable but not memorized. You can also sign up for a Videotaped Practice Interview offered by the Career Center.
7. Not being yourself: Be yourself and be honest! Don't pretend to understand a question or train of thought if you don't. The interviewer will pick up on this. If you don't know an answer, say so. Relax and be yourself. They've picked you for an interview because they're interested. They don't expect you to be perfect.
8. Not listening: Focus on the question that is being asked and don't try to anticipate the next one. It's OK to pause and collect your thoughts before answering a question. Pay special attention to technical or work process related subjects that are unique to a given firm or organization. The interviewer may have provided information you will need to answer the question earlier in the conversation. Employers will be looking for your ability to assimilate new information, retain it, and, most importantly, recognize that information as useful to you later in the interview.
Take the time to "talk through" your thought process… Interviewers consistently placed a high value on students who articulated their problem-solving process.
9. Not providing enough details: When answering case questions, technical questions or solving technical problems, take the time to "talk through" your thought process. Recruiters are more interested in seeing how your mind works and responds to a given problem rather than the answer itself. They are examining how your thought process works. In their discussions with us, interviewers consistently placed a high value on students who articulated their problem-solving process. These individuals got offers more often than those who could solve the problem but failed to verbalize their thinking. Regarding other types of interview questions (general, resume-based or behavioral), it's also important to give specific details. Recruiters only know what you tell them! Don't assume otherwise. Your goal is to be clear and concise, yet descriptive.
10. Lack of enthusiasm: Maintain eye contact, greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake (not too weak, not too strong), and show common courtesy. Don't be afraid to display your passion for the job/industry and to show confidence! A gloomy or "too serious" expression can be interpreted as a lack of interest in the job and/or company.