You’ve been around the block. You know how to prep your resume, research the company, and smile at the right times. But even the most seasoned professionals can walk out of an interview wishing they’d handled a question—or their nerves—a little differently.
At That’s Good HR, we’ve helped thousands of Indianapolis job seekers, from young professionals to career veterans, ace their interviews and land roles they love. So, we’ve seen the common patterns, cringe-worthy moments, and easy fixes that separate “strong candidate” from “hired.”
Here are five interview mistakes we see even experienced candidates still making (and how to make sure you don’t).
Treating the Interview Like a One-Way Conversation
If your idea of preparing is memorizing answers, you’re only doing half the job. Interviews aren’t just for companies to size you up. They’re your chance to evaluate them too.
When candidates don’t ask thoughtful questions, it gives off the vibe that you’re just there to get a job, you’re not genuinely interested in the work.
Instead, ask about leadership style, team dynamics, and how success is measured. These questions show you’re invested in the long game, not just the offer letter.
Pro tip: Avoid asking questions you could easily Google. “What does your company do?” is not the power move you think it is.
Forgetting That Your Self-Introduction Sets the Tone
Whether it’s a quick phone screen or an in-person conversation, your self-introduction in an interview can make or break the first impression.
Many people rattle off a resume summary: “I’ve been in admin roles for 12 years and worked at three hospitals.” Accurate? Sure. Memorable? Not really.
Try something that connects your background to what they need:
“I’ve spent the last decade making fast-paced offices run smoothly—and I’ve found I’m at my best when I’m solving problems before anyone else notices them.”
It’s confident without being overdone, and it gives the interviewer a clear picture of your strengths from the start.
Talking About “We” Instead of “I”
You’ve been on teams, led projects, and contributed to company success. That’s great, but when everything in your interview starts with “we,” it can make it hard for employers to understand your specific impact.
Try this instead: share the group accomplishment, but include your role in making it happen.
“Our team reduced processing time by 30 percent. I developed a new tracking system that helped us identify where delays were happening.”
That small shift helps interviewers picture what you’ll bring to their team, not just what your last team did.
Focusing Too Much on Titles and Not Enough on Fit
One of the biggest interview mistakes we see, especially among experienced candidates, is getting hung up on job titles.
Titles can be misleading.
The “Coordinator” at one company might manage a team of five, but at another, it’s a solo role.
Instead of fixating on the title, dig into responsibilities, leadership support, and growth potential.
Be sure you’re asking the right questions:
- What does success look like in the first six months?
- How does this role interact with leadership or other departments?
- Is there room to expand responsibilities over time?
In Indianapolis, where many companies are leaner and more team-driven, flexibility often matters more than hierarchy. The candidate who shows curiosity about fit rather than prestige usually stands out.
Underestimating the Power of the Follow-Up
You’d be surprised how many strong candidates nail the interview and then disappear. It’s like running a marathon and quitting a hundred yards before the finish line.
A short, but thoughtful thank-you email isn’t old-fashioned. It’s professional.
Mention a specific detail you discussed to make it feel personal, and reaffirm your interest. Employers remember the candidates who take that extra step.
And if you haven’t heard back within the expected timeframe, a polite check-in shows you’re serious, not desperate.
Remember, hiring managers are juggling dozens of things. A nudge helps keep your name top of mind.
Avoiding Interview Mistakes Starts with Preparation
Even experienced candidates can stumble when they underestimate prep work.
The good news? A little time and strategy go a long way in making sure your next interview leaves the right impression.
Whether you’re brushing up on your self-introduction, researching the company, or figuring out how to talk about your accomplishments, these quick prep tips will help you walk in calm, confident, and ready to stand out.
Research the company beyond the “about” page
Don’t just glance at the company website and call it a day.
Dig into recent press releases, LinkedIn updates, and local news to understand what they’ve been working on and where they’re headed. This helps you tailor your answers to their goals—and shows you’re genuinely interested.
In a tight-knit market like Indianapolis, demonstrating local awareness can make you stand out fast.
Know your resume (yes, even the details)
You’d be surprised how many candidates pause at their own bullet points.
Review your achievements, numbers, and career highlights so you can discuss them naturally and confidently.
When you can clearly explain your value without scanning your resume mid-interview, you instantly look more prepared. It’s your story, so own it.
Prepare real-life examples for common interview questions
Anyone can say they’re a “problem solver” or “team player.” What makes it stick is a real-life story that backs it up.
Think of two or three situations where you made an impact, saved time, improved a process, or supported a teammate under pressure.
Preparing clear, specific examples for the most common interview questions is what turns interview buzzwords into results.
Know what you’re worth
One of the easiest ways to derail an otherwise great interview is stumbling through the salary conversation.
Even experienced candidates can feel awkward talking about numbers, but walking in unprepared can lead to undervaluing yourself or overshooting the range entirely.
Doing a little homework up front helps you discuss compensation confidently and professionally.
Not sure what salary range to expect before your next interview? Download our Indy Salary Guide for real-time data on what professionals in Indianapolis are earning across industries.
It’s a quick way to walk into the conversation informed and confident.
Learn. Prepare. Partner with That’s Good HR.
The best interviews don’t happen when you show up as “perfect.” They happen when you know how to articulate your experience, showing up prepared, authentic, and self-aware.
If you’re looking for extra support along the way, That’s Good HR has your back.
Our recruiters know the Indianapolis market inside and out, and we’ll help you navigate every step, from resume polishing to post-interview follow-ups.
Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, exploring new industries, or searching for your next great fit, we’ll match you with opportunities that fit your goals (and your personality).Visit our website to learn more about how we can help you land your dream job, or skip straight to our job board and apply today!