3 Common Interview Mistakes

Sep 20

Copy of interview photos (2).png — Don’t make these mistakes during your next interview!

Going to an interview is nerve-racking, but a clinical interview for novice mental health professionals can be even worse. Why? Because you are interviewing for a position, you most likely have little to no experience in clinical work. It is also difficult for people to put themselves in the spotlight. You’re selling yourself, and it can be awkward to showcase your talents, or you may even freeze when they ask you about yourself. Plus, it can be challenging to know what to ask in the interview.

Let’s take a few moments to look at three common interview mistakes you can avoid!

Poor preparation

Going into an interview and winging it is going to lead to failure. Do your research about the agency. Get to know their mission statement, core values, and what type of clients they serve. Write down what stands out to you or what you would like to learn more about client treatment and modalities. Try to come up with 3-5 questions to ask during your interview.

2. Being too quiet or shy

Being nervous during an interview is typical & expected. It becomes a problem when it impacts your performance and overtakes you.

If you know you freeze or become overly anxious in an interview, practice coping skills to manage your anxiety.

Paced breathing is excellent because you can use it throughout the interview, and no one knows you’re doing it. Another tip is to practice pausing for 3 seconds between each second. It allows you to control your speech, and the interviewer can take in what you’re saying.

I highly suggest coming in with an elevator pitch. An elevator pitch allows you to go in prepared to talk. Come up with 2-3 statements about yourself, what interests you in the agency, and have a call to action, such as you are highly interested in the position at the agency.

HELPFUL TIP: Need help writing an elevator pitch? Download my free Learn 5 Keys Tips to Land your Dream Site to create a concise, 2-3 sentence elevator pitch to introduce yourself in an interview

3. Being unprofessional

Playing the part of the professional during an interview is essential. You want to put your best foot forward and be respectful of those interviewing you. A key piece in this is dressing appropriately. Keep your look simple and put together. It doesn’t mean you have to wear blue or black only. I suggest wearing your power color or something that shines a light on your personality. But not too over the top. Also, leave the ripped jeans and cropped tops for another day. If you are unsure, think about how you want to present yourself to your future client or call ahead and ask what the dress code is.

Be aware of what you say and how you say it. Name dropping, being arrogant, rude, or misusing pronouns & titles is a big turn-off for interviewers. Again, do your research. I suggest checking ahead of time on their site to find out the proper pronouns and titles. If you want to mention you read an article or research paper someone wrote, reflect on what you liked and how you would like to learn more. It comes off a lot more friendly than name-dropping or acting like you know everything.