How many interviews have you had now?

2, 5, 15?

And still no job offer?

Is there a common reason?

Are you doing something wrong at each interview?

If you find yourself in this situation you, maybe, need to change your approach.

But first you need to find out why the job offers are not coming your way.

The two main sources of help are the Interviewer and yourself.

Let’s look at the Interviewer…

The interviewer

OK. You didn’t get the job offer but you would like to know why and improve your chances of success the next time.

The simplest way is to ask for feedback.

Maybe it was between you and one other candidate, but they had more experience or better qualifications.

You almost got the job!

In  this case, suggest they keep your details on file and let you know if another vacancy arises that would be suitable.

Now let’s assume you get some ‘common’ feedback. I.E. two or three employers say the same thing. For example, you didn’t seem flexible or keen enough.

Now that is real feedback.

You now have something to work on before the next interview.

What often happens, however, is that the Interviewer gives you just general feedback.

The Interviewer will not like having to reject you and may not have a strong reason. Maybe just a gut feeling you might not fit in. Now giving someone feedback saying “We didn’t think you’d fit in” is very hard to give so they may ‘make up’ some general feedback.

For example, “we went with someone with more experience”. That reason could be a cover up for the real reason.

If this is happening to you, you need to think back over your recent interviews.

Your Own Analysis

In your car or on the train immediately after the intervew…analyse how well the interview went. Make some notes so the next time you can improve or change your approach.

How was your attitude towards the interview?

Were you too casual in dress or in your answers, or did you find it hard to show much enthusiasm?

Either show more interest next time or read the signs and try for other jobs that would suit you better.

How nervous were you?

We are all nervous before interviews but are you TOO nervous. Almost shaking?

Why not join a relaxation class at a local adult education centre?

Were there any questions you couldn’t answer or felt uncomfortable about?

Were you taken by surprise with the direction of the interview?

How about your answers? Did you feel you rambled on and on with your answers?

You can prepare for these more carefully before your next interview.

Are you applying for the wrong jobs?

It is possible that you have discovered you will need skills, experience or interests that you do not have or want to use, or that you are competing against people who are very different to yourself.

If you feel this, redirect your application to other types of work or different employers.