The internet is full of information. An information overload about almost anything you could want to know. So when preparing for most things in life, our first step is to Google ‘how to prepare for…’ or ‘what do I need for…’. But is there such a thing as too much preparation?
The simple answer is, YES! And over-preparing for job interviews can be detrimental.
Job interviews are important. They can be the first step towards massive changes in both your career and your personal life, so naturally you want to be prepared. Preparing for an interview can be a daunting task and it is easy to get carried away trying to sell yourself as the perfect fit for any role within any company.
But, being over-prepared often leads to you coming across as in-authentic, rehearsed, fake and a know-it-all.
Here is how prospective employers can tell if you have over-prepared for your interview:
- You use obscure words that wouldn’t regularly be used in everyday conversation.
- Your sentences roll off the tongue with little to no time for thought or consideration, this is an indication you have anticipated and rehearsed these answers.
- You don’t check if the interviewer understands or follows your answers.
- You deliver answers without stopping to allow feedback.
- You appear too focused on your prepared answers rather than listening to the questions and answering organically.
- The interviewer doesn’t feel like you are having a conversation, they feel they are being spoken at or lectured on the topic at hand.
To avoid looking like you are desperate for the job or over-rehearsed, it is wise to:
- Research the company and the expectations of the role.
- Write down why you personally would suit the role and what you can bring to the company, rather than what you think the ‘perfect candidate’ should offer.
- Be authentic in your interview. Use language you would regularly use and don’t change your body language to impress the interviewer.
- Never exaggerate or lie. If you don’t understand parts of the role, don’t pretend that you do. Never lie about having experience you don’t have. The truth will come out on the job.
Preparing for an interview is definitely a smart idea but being over-preparing for job interviews can come across as fake and obnoxious. Always listen, consider the question and answer authentically.
We wish you good luck with your next interview! If you’re looking for a career change, why not check out our careers page here.
Comment