Job interviews—those nerve-wracking rituals where we attempt to showcase our potential to strangers in suits. For career seekers, from recent grads to seasoned professionals embarking on a new path, interviews can feel like stepping onto a stage without a script.

But don’t worry, I’m here to help shine a light on some commonly believed myths that could be holding you back from truly nailing your next interview.

The Three Lies

Lie #1: “Highlight Your Experience”

Yes, your experience is important. It shows that you have a solid foundation and track record in your field. But it’s not the only thing that matters in an interview. I would argue that in many cases, interviews are to understand you as a person and your approach to work.

If you’re in the interview, they already know you have the right experience.

Often times, candidates get so caught up in talking about their past roles and accomplishments that they forget to connect them to the current position they are interviewing for. Instead of simply listing off bullet points from your resume, focus on how your experiences have prepared you for this specific job and what unique value you can bring to the organization.

Lie #2: “Make Sure You Send a Thank You Note”

When I started my career, I was told to send a physical thank you note after every interview. And while showing gratitude is important, the way in which you do it has evolved with technology and the job market.

Depending on how your interview ends, sending a follow up note can seem pushy–mostly because people use thank you notes as a way of reminding the interviewer that they exist instead of demonstrating gratitude.

But, let’s say your interview ends with “we’ll be in touch”, they might see your follow up note as trying to pressure them for an answer. In this case, it’s best to wait until you hear back from the company before reaching out again.

I would say sending a thank you note can be conditional. If you had a great connection with the interviewer and it feels natural to send one, then by all means do so. But if not, don’t feel like you have to force it just for the sake of following traditional advice.

Instead, focus on staying connected with your network and building relationships in a genuine way. This will likely make a bigger impact than a generic thank you note. And remember, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you portrayed yourself authentically during the interview and left a positive impression.

Lie #3: “You Need to Meet All the Qualifications Listed”

Did you know women are less likely to apply for a job if they don’t meet all the qualifications listed? It’s true.

The reality is, most employers are looking for someone who has a combination of skills and experiences, not necessarily every single one listed on the job description. They want someone who can bring unique value and perspectives to their organization.

So don’t be discouraged if you feel like you’re not checking off all the boxes. Instead, focus on highlighting your strengths and how they align with what the company is looking for. Show enthusiasm and willingness to learn new skills, as this can often be a deciding factor for employers.

Conclusion

In a competitive job market, it’s important to be aware of and avoid these common lies that can hold us back from achieving our career goals. By staying true to ourselves, continuing to build genuine connections, and showcasing our unique strengths and potential, we can overcome these lies and land the perfect job for us.

So don’t let anyone or anything discourage you from pursuing your dreams – believe in yourself and keep pushing forward! Remember, the truth will always prevail in the end. So go out there with confidence and determination, because you deserve to reach for the stars and make your career aspirations a reality.