5 Interview Mistakes That Cost Nigerian Candidates the Offer

After running hundreds of mock interviews, the same avoidable mistakes come up again and again — regardless of how strong a candidate's actual experience is.
1. Rambling instead of using a structure
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep behavioral answers tight and outcome-focused instead of wandering.
2. Not researching the company beyond the website homepage
Interviewers notice quickly when a candidate hasn't looked into recent company news, products, or challenges.
3. Underselling achievements out of modesty
Cultural humility is admirable, but an interview is the one setting where you're expected to clearly state your impact.
4. Having no questions prepared
"No, I think you covered everything" signals disengagement. Always have two or three thoughtful questions ready.
5. Weak salary negotiation
Accepting the first offer without discussion often leaves money on the table — most employers expect some negotiation.
Our interview preparation service runs live mock interviews to help you fix these before it counts.
Emeka Okafor
Career Coach & Interview Trainer
Emeka runs PerfectCareers' mock interview program and has trained candidates who've been hired at banks, telcos and startups.