Preparation can help avoid pitfalls on the job

Would you fall asleep or ask for a cigarette during a job interview? How about wearing a crash helmet? The answer is most probably no. However, hiring managers saw all of the above among other weird job interview blunders, according to a survey conducted by CareerBuilder, a major job search website in the United Kingdom.

Why? The survey concluded that mounting stress was behind most of these mistakes. True, the job market remains tough and the pressure of being unemployed is enormous. But falling prey to stress wouldn't help anyone get a job not only because it may lead to committing some outrageous mistakes, but also because it can easily sabotage a candidate's basic preparedness for an interview.

So while stress management therapy may not be on the cards until you get a job that pays for it, just try to control yourself, be positive and simply pre-empt whatever can make you flip out in an interview. Here are some tips:

Get help for free

If child care, illness or mere lack of opportunities have kept you out of the job market for a while, you might find it awkward to go back to interviews. The slightest concern in your mind, such as what to wear or how to respond to certain questions, might become a stumbling block during the interview. Networking is the solution and it has been easier than ever with online forums. Just join job-related websites and ask questions or get help from professional job coaches.

Prepare and relax

You scored a job interview in today's job market. Celebrate it! Take a trip to the interview location to figure out how to arrive there at least 15 minutes ahead of your appointment on the interview day. Check the parking availability or arrange for alternative transportation, research the company and have your papers in order. Regardless of your interviewer's cultural background, stay on the conservative side when it comes to clothes. After all, you don't need to lose a job by wearing a short skirt or showing body piercing. Have everything ready a day ahead and relax.

Money matters, but...

It isn't a secret: a major motivation to changing jobs is to make more money. You know it and your interviewer does too. However, don't bring the subject to the table too soon. A recent survey in the United States found 10 per cent of employers rank overemphasis on money among the top five mistakes candidates make during a job interview. The situation can only be more difficult in the Middle East where discussing money is a sensitive matter. Employers are usually more willing to go an extra mile for a candidate they are impressed by. So sell your skills and passion for the job before pushing for compensation.

Ask the right questions

The key word here is "right". Think prior to the interview about these questions and be prepared to phrase them nicely without being scripted. Remember, this is the time to demonstrate your ability to bring new ideas to the table after responding to your interviewer's questions. Your focus should be on the company's objectives, details of the potential role, the nature of the job, future development and the like. Never ask the interviewer a personal question. If you're absolutely stuck, don't freak out; ask your interviewer to elaborate on any point that was discussed.

Know your weaknesses

You need to mentally address your points of weakness prior to the interview. If you've been fired, became redundant or have been out of work longer than employers usually like, think how you will explain your situation to future employers in order to avoid ending up on the defensive. One tip for all of the above is to be honest and positive. Focus on your accomplishments even if they are in areas of self development or family. If you were fired for your own fault, say so only if you're directly asked and move on. Try to work out this scenario with your partner or a friend and hopefully you won't end up asking for a cigarette or a nap.

The writer, former business features editor at Gulf News, is currently a freelance journalist based in Salt Lake City, Utah