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Today we will conclude our series on the top 10 worst mistakes that lead to a bad interview. If you take time to review all of the mistakes, then you will notice that some are not as obvious as it might seem. What candidates get frustrated with most is when they are failing at interviews but have no idea as to what they are doing wrong.

Honest feedback is one of the most helpful and most difficult things you could ever ask for. If you are going through a recruiter, then many times they receive the honest truth from the other party. Build a relationship with them and have them share with you the good, the bad, and the ugly. While it may seem painful, it will help you to know the truth moving forward.

Fatal Interview Mistake #1: Interviewing Without Preparation

If there is one great sin that I have witnessed in my years of recruiting it is this: trying to "wing" an interview on your good charm and looks. Sure I will be the first to admit that chemistry has a lot to do with getting hired. In fact, many times I have seen the less qualified candidate win out. Nothing…and I do mean nothing….will bring an interview to a halt more then a candidate displaying that they are unprepared.

Companies love to hear that you have done your homework. They are going to ask you why you want to come to work for XYZ Company and you better have a good reason. I have had hiring managers tell me that they loved the candidate’s experience but they have real concerns because they did not seem to be very prepared.

You have one shot at trying to impress a company. If you do not put your best foot forward, then you will go no further in the process. Preparation is especially important in the field of accounting. Many companies report their numbers on the websites and you can go deep in conversations if you have taken the time to do your research ahead of time.

When you are well-prepared you are less nervous and more confident. Take the time to do your research and your interviews will go much better.