1. Skipping the Rapport-Building (Small Talk): For many newcomers, the focus is naturally on showcasing their skills, which sometimes leads to overlooking the importance of rapport-building. Starting with a bit of friendly small talk allows interviewers to see your interpersonal skills and sets a positive tone for the conversation. Take a moment to engage in light, natural conversation at the beginning, whether it’s a comment about the weather or a shared interest on LinkedIn. This doesn’t just break the ice; it shows that you’re approachable and attuned to Canadian workplace culture.

2. Sounding Overly Scripted: It’s normal to prepare answers for interview questions, but avoid memorizing responses word-for-word. Interviewers can quickly tell when candidates sound rehearsed, which can come across as impersonal or rigid. Instead, focus on the key points you want to convey for each question, allowing yourself to speak naturally. This approach not only helps you sound more genuine but also allows room for spontaneity, showcasing your adaptability—a valuable trait in any role.

3. Answering Questions Reactively (Without Connecting Them to the Role): When asked about past experiences, some candidates tend to give direct answers that don’t connect back to how they would succeed in the specific role. Instead, use each question as an opportunity to highlight how your skills and experiences are relevant to the job. For instance, if asked about a challenging project, explain how the skills you used to overcome that challenge can help you succeed in this new position. This shows the interviewer that you understand the role’s requirements and have thought about how you can add value.

4. Using Buzzwords in the “What’s Your Weakness?” Question: When asked about weaknesses, avoid generic responses like “I’m a perfectionist.” While this might seem like a safe answer, it can come across as insincere or evasive. Interviewers are looking for candidates who demonstrate self-awareness and a genuine willingness to improve. Instead, choose a real area for development and briefly explain how you’re working on it. For example, you might say, “I tend to get very focused on details, but I’m working on balancing this by setting specific time limits for detail-oriented tasks.” This shows that you’re proactive and honest about growth.

5. Asking Questions Focused Only on Daily Logistics: While it’s important to understand the day-to-day aspects of a job, asking only logistical questions can make it seem like you’re interested solely in routine matters. Instead, ask insightful questions that show you’re thinking about the bigger picture, like “What does success in this position look like?” or “What are the most challenging aspects of this role?” This approach conveys that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to the organization’s long-term goals and that you see yourself growing in the role.

At CIIS, we understand the unique challenges newcomers face when navigating the Canadian job market. We’re here to support skilled immigrants like Janet by offering insights, tools, and resources to help them succeed in job interviews and beyond. For employers, we provide guidance on fostering inclusive workplaces where newcomers can thrive. By working together, we can build workplaces that value and retain diverse talent, creating a future where everyone’s contributions are celebrated and respected.