When heading out to interviews, you need to be at the top of your game. But that means more than putting on your most professional-looking outfit and offering a firm handshake.
What you say during your interview will have a huge impact on the outcome—so it’s important to avoid a few damaging questions and statements (if you want to land the job.) Here are 5 things you should never say at a job interview.
1. “How much paid time off do you offer?”
Asking a question like this in an interview means you’re focused on what’s in it for you—not how you can help the organization. It not only makes you look self-centered, but it comes off as arrogant and overconfident. Leave those questions for later in the process if you’ve been offered the job.
2. “I don’t really have any questions for you.”
At the end of your interview, you will likely be asked if you have any questions about the company or the role. Not having any questions can come off as disinterested—so have a few in mind that can help you learn more about what your interviewer is looking for.
Example: “What goals would you like to see accomplished from this position within the next year?” or “What are you looking for in an ideal candidate for this job?”
3. “I hated _________ about the last place I worked.”
Your interview should be focused around all things positive—not what you didn’t like about your last job. Keep the negativity about your last boss or annoying co-workers out of the conversation, and instead focus on the positive changes you brought to the company or what you’re looking forward to next.
4. “Tell me about what you guys do here.”
If you’re showing up at an interview, you should have already done your homework and know exactly what the company does. Before you walk in the door, you should read up on the recent news that’s been published from the organization and try to learn as much as possible about the person who will be interviewing you.
5. “I don’t have much experience.”
A good rule of thumb: Fake it ‘til you make it! Don’t highlight your weaknesses, but rather play up your strengths and willingness to learn. Most employers realize they won’t be hiring someone who knows everything needed within their new role, but they’ll be looking for quick learners who are ready for a challenge and are open to change.
Be Your Best Self at an Interview
If you can remember to avoid these five comments in your interview at all costs, you’re off to a good start. Don’t get tripped up by an interviewer’s attempt to get you to speak about negative things—things you didn’t like in the past or what you wish you could’ve done differently.
Remember: Be positive. Leave the negativity behind you and hope for a fresh start in a new role.
