Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially in a competitive market like Turkey. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, avoiding a few common missteps can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the most frequent job interview mistakes people make in Turkey—and more importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Mistakes to avoir during job interview in Turkey / Skipping the Prep Work
Not Learning About the Company
Going into an interview without knowing much about the company is a surefire way to leave a bad impression. Recruiters expect you to show genuine interest—and that starts with doing your homework.
Tip:
Check out the company’s website, learn about their mission and what they do. Look for recent news or updates. Social media can also give you a feel for the culture and tone of the workplace.
Overlooking the Job Description
If you don’t understand what the job actually involves, it’s going to show. And not in a good way.
Tip:
Read the job description closely and think about how your experience fits. Come prepared with real examples that prove you’re a good match.
Not Practicing Interview Questions
Thinking you can just “wing it” during an interview is risky. Nerves can get the best of anyone, and stumbling over answers won’t help.
Tip:
Practice answering typical questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Even rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror helps.
2. Mistakes to avoir during job interview in Turkey / Acting Unprofessionally
Showing Up Late—or Way Too Early
In Turkish business culture, being on time matters. Arriving late can seem careless, but arriving way too early can be awkward too.
Tip:
Plan ahead, leave some buffer time, and aim to arrive about 10 minutes before your interview.
Dressing the Wrong Way
Your outfit sets the tone. Showing up underdressed—or overdressed—can work against you.
Tip:
Find out what’s appropriate for the industry. When in doubt, business casual is usually a safe bet. Make sure your clothes are neat, clean, and fit well.
Checking Your Phone During the Interview
This one’s a major red flag. Even a quick glance at your screen can signal that you’re not fully present.
Tip:
Silence your phone (or turn it off) and keep it out of sight until the interview is over.
3. Mistakes to avoir during job interview in Turkey / Poor Communication
Talking Too Much or Too Little
Rambling on or giving one-word answers—both can hurt your chances.
Tip:
Keep your answers focused and relevant. Share just enough to highlight your experience without going off track.
Complaining About Past Jobs
Speaking negatively about former employers makes you look unprofessional, no matter how justified you may feel.
Tip:
Stick to what you learned and how you’ve grown. If you mention a tough situation, emphasize how you handled it constructively.
Not Asking Questions
If you don’t ask anything at the end of the interview, it might seem like you’re not that interested.
Tip:
Come prepared with a few thoughtful questions about the team, the role, or what success looks like in the position.
4. Not Understanding Turkish Workplace Norms
Overlooking Business Culture
Respect and professionalism are key in Turkish workplaces. Missing the mark here can leave a poor impression.
Tip:
Use polite, formal greetings. Address people with their titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) and show deference to more senior individuals.
Weak Handshake or Awkward Eye Contact
These might seem small, but they can affect how confident and trustworthy you seem.
Tip:
Go for a firm (but not aggressive) handshake, and maintain friendly eye contact when speaking.
Being Too Casual—or Too Shy
Yes, Turkish culture is warm, but interviews are still formal settings.
Tip:
Find the balance: be friendly and personable, but stay professional. Avoid getting overly familiar or being too closed off.
5. Lacking Enthusiasm
Coming Across as Disinterested
If you don’t seem excited about the job, it’s hard for the employer to get excited about you.
Tip:
Show some energy! Talk about what draws you to the role, and connect your skills to the company’s goals.
Giving Generic Responses
Generic, overly rehearsed answers can make you blend in with every other candidate.
Tip:
Be specific. Share real stories and achievements from your experience to back up what you’re saying.
6. Messing Up the Virtual Interview
Technical Glitches and Bad Setup
Nothing kills the vibe faster than freezing video or loud background noise.
Tip:
Check your gear before the call. Use a quiet, well-lit space with a clean background, and test your microphone and camera.
Looking at the Screen Instead of the Camera
If you’re staring at your screen the whole time, it might feel like you’re not making eye contact.
Tip:
Look into the camera when you speak. It helps create a stronger connection.
Forgetting Online Etiquette
Talking over the interviewer or speaking too loudly can come off as rude or unpolished.
Tip:
Take your time, speak clearly, and don’t interrupt. Let the interviewer finish before you respond.
7. Dropping the Ball After the Interview
Not Following Up
Skipping a thank-you note is a missed opportunity to leave a good final impression.
Tip:
Send a quick thank-you email within 24 hours. Mention something you discussed and reaffirm your interest.
Being Too Pushy About the Outcome
Following up too soon or too often can seem impatient.
Tip:
If you haven’t heard back after a week, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up. Then give it space.
Ignoring Feedback
Every interview, even an unsuccessful one, is a chance to learn. But only if you’re open to it.
Tip:
Reflect on what went well and what didn’t. If you can, ask for feedback—it shows maturity and a desire to improve.
Avoiding these common interview mistakes can seriously boost your chances of getting hired in Turkey. The key is to prepare well, show genuine interest, stay professional, and learn from each experience. Whether it’s your first interview or your fiftieth, staying mindful of these tips will help you make a strong and lasting impression.
