Despite all the changes in Ireland’s job market over the past few years, some interview mistakes just keep showing up. At Red Chair Recruitment, we speak to candidates and employers every day, and we’ve noticed the same issues cropping up again and again, often costing people opportunities they’re more than qualified for. So, whether you’re applying for a marketing role in Cork or a sales job in Kerry, here are the top five interview mistakes Irish job seekers are still making in 2025, and how to avoid them.
1. Underselling Themselves
The first big one is underselling yourself. We’ve noticed this especially among younger applicants or those just out of college. Irish modesty is great in many areas of life, but interviews aren’t one of them. This is your chance to highlight what you’ve done and the results you’ve delivered. Even if you’re early in your career, don’t be afraid to talk about part-time jobs, voluntary work, or extra responsibilities you’ve taken on. Employers love to see initiative and practical experience, no matter how small.
2. Giving Vague, Generic Answers
Another common issue is giving vague or generic answers. You’ve probably heard the phrase “I’m a great team player” more times than you can count, but so have interviewers. These kinds of statements don’t mean anything unless they’re backed up with real examples. That’s where the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) comes in handy. Instead of saying “I work well under pressure,” explain a time when you had to juggle multiple deadlines or step up during a crisis. That kind of story is what makes you memorable.
3. Not Researching the Company Properly
Surprisingly, a lot of candidates still don’t research the company they’re interviewing with. In 2025, that just isn’t good enough. With websites, social media, LinkedIn, and even employee reviews at your fingertips, there’s no excuse for showing up without a basic understanding of the business. Take 30 minutes to dig into what they do, their company values, recent news, and who their competitors are. When you show that kind of effort, it really stands out.
4. Avoiding the Salary Question (or Mishandling It)
The fourth mistake is mishandling the salary question. It still makes many people squirm, but avoiding it or saying “whatever you think is fair” won’t help your case. Employers want to know that you’ve done your research and that you value your own skills. Look up salary benchmarks online for similar roles and come prepared with a confident, realistic range. It shows professionalism, and gives both sides a starting point.
5. Not Following Up After the Interview
Finally, many job seekers still don’t follow up after interviews. A short thank-you email might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference. It’s a chance to reinforce your enthusiasm and professionalism, and to remind the interviewer of something you discussed. Keep it simple: thank them for their time, mention something you enjoyed about the conversation, and let them know you’re still very interested in the role.
At the end of the day, interviews are about preparation, confidence, and connection. Avoid these common pitfalls and you’ll be in a much stronger position to make the right impression. If you’re getting ready for interviews and want help tailoring your approach, our team at Red Chair Recruitment is always here to help. Reach out here, we’re happy to chat.