Survey: Dressing inappropriately at interview could cost you

Canadians looking for a new job should be dressed properly for the interview if they want to have a fighting chance, according to a new CareerBuilder survey.

The CareerBuilder survey asked more than 2,700 hiring managers about mistakes that can cost a potential employee a new paycheque. Some of the most common mistakes job candidates make during the interview process are not appearing to be interested, speaking about past jobs in a negative manner, seeming to be arrogant and using a cell phone during the interview. Some of the more unusual mistakes that the hiring managers had in the past included a candidate filing their fingernails and another who recited poetry. One candidate who didn't get the job said that Dungeons & Dragons was an example of teamwork. Going for total honesty may not be the best course in obtaining the job. One person interviewing for a customer service position admitted that "I don't really like working with people." The best way to make a good impression during your interview is to be positive and know about the company that you are interviewing with. The interview isn't the time to discuss your family or beliefs; stay professional. Honesty is the best policy. If you don't know the answer to a question do not fake it but then explain how you would work to find the right answer proving that you are resourceful. "With heightened competition for open positions in today's economy, it's important for candidates to put their best foot forward in an interview," said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources for CareerBuilder. "You want to stand out for the right reasons. Even though the job search process can be frustrating, candidates should stay positive, focus on their strengths and be prepared on how to best sell their skill set."