The Guru Nation Blog

Yes, we have all blown an interview. And on the way out of the interviewer’s office we are mentally kicking ourselves for saying or doing just the wrong thing. Truth is, landing a job is not a lost cause if you make gaffes! Honest.
It certainly depends on the industry, but most hiring managers won’t throw you overboard if you can repair your mistake with a clever hand.

Candor, humor, and confidence are still the three things that can save you.
Consider these four common snafus and what you can quickly do to remedy:

1.    Did you show up late? Not a death sentence if you called in advance and offered a very reasonable excuse.

2.    Did you submit your cover letter with a typo? Not tragic if you resend in bright color and call it “Revised Version”

3.    Did you spill water or soda on the interviewer? Uncomfortable but not deadly. The following day, send a note and a gift certificate from a dry cleaner.

4.    Did you call someone by the wrong name? Or address your letter to the wrong person? It can almost work in your favor if you play on the error wisely.  Send an interesting book about names (from a classy bookstore) and use the opportunity to stand out in the crowd of other interviewees.