How to Not Let Your Habits Keep You from Getting the Job

How to Not Let Your Habits Keep You from Getting the Job Small quirks and foibles are innocuous most of the time. But when you are applying for a job, these quirks are bad habits that can keep you from getting the job you want.Here are some bad habits that will stop you from getting the job and how you can stop them from ruining your chances.1. SmokingevalSmoking cigarettes can be a huge turn-off for an interviewer, even if you do not light up in the middle of the interview. Chances are the person will smell the smoke on you, especially if they are a non-smoker. While you might not be able to notice it, most non-smokers are not used to the smell of smoke and they will, even if it is faint.Best case scenario, they spend the interview nauseated and associate you with feeling sick. Worst case, they are against smoking and immediately have a bad impression of you.How to overcome it:Do not smoke right before an interview, no matter how stressed you are. Make sure your clothes are clean and you shower before going. Better yet, never smoke in you r interview clothes to keep the scent off. If you absolutely feel the need, use a drip e-cig instead of a regular cigarette because the scent is not as strong.2. Casual ConversationWhen you are with family or friends, it is easy to use informalities like “yo, what up?” or swear words. You might also be used to sharing everything with friends and family, telling funny stories, or laughing when one of you drops an unintentional innuendo.All of these things can easily make you fail the interview.How to overcome it:evalIt is easier said than done to say do not do it. After all, you do not want to end up coming across as stiff and boring either. There are many different types of employee training programs, so find someone in the professional sector to practice with.Preferably, this will be someone who has been in the interview position before but you should at least practice with someone who has had a successful interview.Do some practice interviews and get feedback on your conversat ion skills. Work on your weak spots and keep trying until you feel comfortable talking in a professional manner.3. BoredomA lot of people end up sending negative messages without even meaning to by looking bored. This translates into what you do while waiting for your interview and your body language.evalSlouching, using your cell phone before the interview, and even a resting face can tell your interviewer that you do not want to be there.How to overcome it:When waiting for your interview, do not scroll through social media on your cell phone because it automatically sends signals that you are bored. Instead look through a magazine or a company brochure.While waiting and while being interviewed, do not slouch or fold your arms. Try to look alert and remember to smile at everyone you meet for the interview, including the receptionist out front.Practice good body language and facial expressions at home in front of a mirror to help feel comfortable doing this and so you can do it auto matically.4. Over-eagerness and Lack of GraciousnessA lot of people have the impulse to ask for feedback as soon as they are done with the interview, or to ask if they have the job. Others will leave the interview without a second thought to the interviewer.How to overcome it:Do not ask if you did okay or if you got the job as soon as the interview is over. Instead thank them for their time and wish them a nice day. As soon as the interview is over, write and send them a thank-you note.Even if you do not think you did well, it is still important to thank them. It shows maturity and manners that can give you an edge over other candidates.