5 things not to say in a job interview
What you don’t say in a job interview is just as important as what you do say. Follow these interviewing tips to ensure you stand out for the right reasons.
In a job interview, what you don’t say to a potential employer could have as big an impact on your prospects as what you do say. Strengthen your approach by avoiding these common errors in your next job interview.
1. “I’m not familiar with your company, what do you do?”
Do your homework so you can ask intelligent questions about the job. This shows potential employers that you are prepared and proactive. If you’re truly interested in the job, you’ll be a much better employee and more likely to get hired. Plus, researching the company before you show up for the interview shows that you have initiative.
2. Anything negative about your last boss or job.
If you sound overly critical of your previous employer, your interviewer will wonder what you’ll have to say about his company when you leave. Even if what you say is true, keep it positive, or least keep a neutral tone in the interview. Try to find a way to turn negative experiences at previous jobs into a positive for the interview or simply respond that the new position aligns with your career goals and presented an opportunity you couldn’t pass up.
3. “It’s on my CV.”
If an interviewer asks you about an experience that is on your CV, they want you to elaborate. Instead of saying “it’s on the CV”, which sounds flippant, go into more detail about the job they are asking about. Tell the interviewer what you did, how you did it, and the impact you had on the employer you were working for. The more you are able to integrate measurable results and real-world professional examples, the better your chances of landing the position.
4. “My only professional weakness is I care too much.”
Everyone has weaknesses; potential employers do not expect you to be perfect. This question is intended to uncover your level of self-awareness and your ability to tackle problems. You’ll impress your interviewer more if you’re honest about what you’re working on, and outline the proactive steps you’re taking to close the gap. Turn your weaknesses into a positive, but don’t gloss over them.
5. “I’m an out-of-the-box thinker.”
This is a cliché. Even if it’s true, it will make you sound boring and uncreative. Your interviewer is looking for what sets you apart from other job candidates. You might as well drop every cliché you’re thinking about saying in a job interview. The rule: Don’t state it, demonstrate it with real-world examples of your professional achievements.