How to Avoid Overtalking during an Interview

As recruiters, we have seen it all when it comes to interviews! One of the biggest mistakes we see is talking too much. In fact, 36% of recruiters say that talking too much is the most common interview mistake job candidates make.

We love seeing confident candidates but talking too much can leave a poor impression on the organisation interviewing you. Although over-talking is common, especially when nervous in an interview, we have compiled some tips to help you calm your interview nerves before you accidentally let something slip.

• Be prepared, plan and rehearse. Pre-prepare answers to common interview questions. Research the company and the role. Rehearse them with a friend or family member, or simply imagine and visualise the interview.
• Think positive thoughts. If you go into an interview with a negative mindset about the job or why you’re leaving your current job, you’re more likely to try and fill an awkward silence by blabbing. Instead, stay positive and don’t be afraid of answering the question and waiting for the next question. If the interviewer wants you to elaborate, they’ll ask for more detail… otherwise, stop talking.
• If you catch yourself rambling – take a short pause and don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer if you can start the question again. Interviewers understand that you can be nervous and are OK with you starting again if you need to.
• Take a deep breath and take your time. You don’t have to answer immediately. You can take a moment to think about your response before you start talking. Studies show that by breathing slower and more deeply from your stomach, you signal your nervous system to calm down.

In your next interview, remember to take your time, take a deep breath, and it’s OK to ask to restart your answer again.