🔍 Introduction
Interviews at top MNCs like TCS, Infosys, Cognizant, Accenture, Capgemini, and others are a big opportunity — especially for freshers. But one small mistake can cost you the job. In this blog post, we’ll break down the top 10 common mistakes freshers make during interviews, and how you can avoid them to increase your chances of getting hired.
❌ Mistake #1: Not Researching the Company
Many freshers attend interviews without understanding the company’s business, culture, or clients.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Visit the company’s website, LinkedIn page, and Glassdoor.
- Know their services, latest news, CEO, and mission statement.
- Prepare an answer for: “Why do you want to work here?”
❌ Mistake #2: Giving Generic Self-Introduction
Saying “Hi, my name is XYZ, I’m from ABC college” is not enough.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Mention your degree, skills, project, and what makes you a good fit.
- Example: “I’m a B.Tech graduate with strong Python skills. I led a project using Django and SQLite, which improved efficiency by 20%.”
❌ Mistake #3: Fumbling in Basic HR Questions
Freshers often mess up simple questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
✅ How to Avoid:
- Prepare 4–5 common HR answers in advance.
- Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror.
- Use the STAR method for behavioral questions.
❌ Mistake #4: Weak Resume with Irrelevant Details
Including hobbies like “listening to music” or “watching movies” can look lazy if not explained properly.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Focus on skills, internships, certifications, and real achievements.
- Tailor your resume for each job role.
- Keep it one page and ATS-friendly.
❌ Mistake #5: Poor Communication Skills
Even technically strong candidates get rejected for weak English or unclear answers.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Practice speaking English daily using apps like Duolingo or YouTube interviews.
- Record yourself and work on voice, clarity, and confidence.
- Join mock interview groups.
❌ Mistake #6: Not Preparing for Aptitude or Coding Tests
Some freshers think the interview is only verbal. But most MNCs start with online assessments.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Practice quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and verbal ability.
- Use platforms like PrepInsta, IndiaBix, HackerRank, and GeeksforGeeks.
❌ Mistake #7: Not Asking Questions at the End
Saying “No questions” shows a lack of curiosity or interest.
✅ How to Avoid:
Ask meaningful questions like:
- “What does a typical day in this role look like?”
- “How is performance evaluated in this company?”
❌ Mistake #8: Overconfidence or Undervaluing Yourself
Some freshers act overconfident, while others undervalue their potential.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Stay humble, but highlight your skills and achievements.
- Show a growth mindset — you’re ready to learn and contribute.
❌ Mistake #9: Not Knowing Your Resume
Interviewers often ask questions based on your resume — and freshers sometimes forget what they wrote.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Revise every line of your resume.
- Be ready to explain each project, tool, or skill in detail.
❌ Mistake #10: Weak Technical Foundations
Freshers often memorize programs without understanding the logic.
✅ How to Avoid:
- Strengthen core concepts in C, Java, Python, OOPs, DBMS, OS, and DSA.
- Focus on logic and approach, not just syntax.
📌 Quick Recap Checklist
Mistake | Solution |
---|---|
No company research | Read website, news, mission |
Weak intro | Highlight skills + projects |
HR fumbles | Practice answers with STAR |
Poor resume | 1-page, relevant, clean |
Weak English | Practice daily |
Ignoring aptitude/coding | Prep on reliable platforms |
No questions asked | Prepare 2–3 thoughtful ones |
Over/under confidence | Stay grounded and show learning mindset |
Not knowing resume | Review your own projects |
Weak tech base | Focus on fundamentals |
🎯 Final Words
Avoiding these mistakes will boost your confidence and credibility in front of MNC interviewers. Remember — every interview is a learning opportunity. Stay prepared, stay humble, and most importantly — stay consistent.
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