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"Picture this: You\u2019re a job candidate up for a role in a coveted organization. You\u2019ve got the experience and referrals, and you\u2019ve even managed to land an interview. So, come interview time, you\u2019re pretty confident about your chances. Weeks later, you still haven't heard from the interviewer or the company. What gives? \nDespite your interview skills or level of experience, many candidates find themselves in a job search black hole. Although it\u2019s easy to blame interviewers \u2014 after all, they may receive more than 100 applications per opening \u2014 you may be inadvertently raising some red flags.\nSEE ALSO: 4 Sneaky Ways to Determine Company Culture in an Interview\n\nWhen this happens, it\u2019s time to take action. To help, we've compiled a list of everything interviewers want to say to unprepared interviewees \u2014 and how to prevent them from thinking that about you.\n1. \u201CWhy didn\u2019t you come prepared?\u201D\nFrom failing to research the company to not being able to tell your interview story, inadequately preparing for a job interview is one of of the biggest mistakes possible. For instance, not being able to relay industry information or not referring to a recent organizational change may show the interviewer you\u2019re not serious about the job \u2014 or that you weren't interested enough to do your homework.\nBefore the interview, research like crazy. Find out what\u2019s new with the company, the interviewer and your industry. In addition, tailor your answers to your findings. For instance, if the company recently added a new department, say something like, \u201CI saw that you added a new department, which shows your commitment to growth and sustainability \u2014 both of which I admire in a company.\u201D\n2. \"I\u2019ve heard this response a million times.\"\nSome responses are generic for a reason; they've been used over and over to the point where an interviewer may be numb to them. For example, stating you\u2019re a great candidate because of your stellar work ethic isn't new or unique. Your interviewer wants to be wowed \u2014 so responding with a run-of-the-mill quality like good work ethic may not bode well for you. \nShow how your work led to accomplishments. If you created an advertisement that increased page views by 15%, make sure to say so. Results signify you achieve success, which is what most employers seek. \n3. \u201CThese responses don\u2019t reflect who you are online.\u201D\nEmployers are looking for you online. In fact, 65% of employers check out your online presence to see if you present yourself professionally. Although posting those party photos or bashing your old employer may have seemed like a fun idea at the time, your interviewer may think otherwise. Who you are online may eventually represent your future employer \u2014 and if the lines don\u2019t align, the interviewer may question your authenticity. \nClean up your online presence early. This means taking down any inappropriate content and enabling privacy settings. Next, start posting professional updates, such as industry news or your opinion on the company\u2019s latest thread. This shows that your online and offline stories match.\n4. \u201CThat outfit is not appropriate.\u201D\nYour physical appearance reflects who you are. If you show up disheveled or inappropriately dressed, your interviewer may not think you're professional enough for the job. In addition, not dressing well may seem like you don\u2019t care about the organization or the job \u2014 certainly not the impression you want to convey. \nWhen in doubt, overdress. Suits, ties and collared shirts are all great options. But put some personality into your outfit, like a shirt with a pop of color under your blazer or a piece of statement jewelry.\n5. \u201CI\u2019m bored.\u201D\nDid you know 21% of candidates report their interviewers seemed bored during the interview? This may be because you\u2019re not giving memorable responses. Look at it this way: Interviewers likely go through hundreds \u2014 if not, thousands \u2014 of applications and meet with many candidates. If you\u2019re aren\u2019t a shining star from the get-go, why should they pay attention? \nCreate a game plan to stand out. This can range from bringing up a funny anecdote to producing a creative resume. Whatever you decide, make sure you do your best to nab the interviewer\u2019s attention from the beginning. Then, the interviewer will be much more enthusiastic about your prospects at the company.  \nWhat are some other pointers for job candidates? Share your advice in the comments below.\nMashable composite, image via iStockphoto, RoyalFive"^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://mashable.com/2013/06/17/interview-mistakes-2/>