What you should never say during a job interview: 10 forbidden phrases

During an interview, it is extremely important not only what you say, but also how you express yourself. This is what helps the employer determine whether you are the right candidate for the job.

Indeed has revealed what statements and phrasing of your thoughts should be avoided during business meetings.

Why what you say at a job interview is important

Everything you say during the interview is analysed by the company's manager. This will help them understand several important things about you, such as your motivation and qualifications. In addition, it will be equally important to understand whether you can fit into the team and cultural environment of the employing company. So, it's worth remembering 10 things you shouldn't say during an interview.

Negative attitude towards your previous employer or job

It is quite likely that you will be asked questions such as "Why are you looking for a new job?" or "What did you not like about your previous positions?" It is very important to avoid negativity when talking about your former employer. This will help you come across as a professional who can objectively assess the situation without any emotions.

In addition, this position will demonstrate that you can remain positive regardless of the situation. It may even signal to the company's manager that you will be able to fit in perfectly with the team and adapt to the company's culture.

When answering questions about your previous employer, try to focus on the things that the position you are applying for has to offer that your previous employer could not.

Example: "Even though I really enjoyed my previous position, I want to use my experience in a leadership role. Where I can help others reach their potential and succeed. But my previous employer does not have any managerial positions available, nor does it expect any to appear in the near future."

"I don't know."

It is quite possible that the interviewer may ask you a question that you have not prepared for or to which you do not have an answer. However, you can use this situation to your advantage. You can show your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

It is a good idea to thank the person for the question and ask for a moment to think about it in order to give a more detailed and informative answer.

Example: "That's a really great question! However, if I may, I need a moment to think about what you've said."

Discussing benefits, holidays and salary

Your main task during the interview is to convince the employer that you are the candidate they are looking for. Therefore, it is very important to avoid questions about holidays, sick leave and benefits that the company may offer. The only exception, of course, is when the interviewer brings up this topic on his or her own initiative.

It would also be appropriate to ask such questions only at the end of the interview. However, you shouldn't ask directly, but rather make it a hint or suggestion to discuss the topic later.

Example: "I hope that during our next conversation, you will tell me about all the benefits of working for your company."

"It's in my CV".

It is possible that the answers to the manager's questions are written in your CV. However, you should still answer each of them in your own words, providing additional information.

The interviewer may have already read your CV, but they want to know more about you. Therefore, it is very important to give an extended answer using specific examples and situations. This will also help you to come across as a professional in your field.

Example: "During my 5 years of leadership, I have managed not only to achieve record-breaking performance, but also to build a well-coordinated team. I believe that the success of our team has allowed the company to become an industry leader."

Unprofessional language

The way you express yourself is also extremely important. During the interview, you should use professional language. This does not mean that you should completely switch to specific jargon, but you should avoid slang, obscenities and parasitic words ("well", "how", "hmm").

It is worth noting that by slowing down the pace of the conversation, you will be less likely to use unprofessional vocabulary. Therefore, you should take your time and think carefully about your answers. And you can easily replace complementary words with short pauses that will give you time to think about your answer.

Example: "My experience tells me that it is possible to optimise the use of equipment in this field."

"I have no questions"

Towards the end, you may be asked if you have any questions. Therefore, it is very important to prepare questions for this case in advance. This will demonstrate to the employer your interest in the position and the company.

Example: "I understand that you are planning to become a leader in the field of mechanical engineering. I'm wondering what your plans are for expansion and how you want to achieve this goal."

Ask what the company does

It is quite easy to find the answer to such questions before the interview. Of course, you should avoid asking directly what the company does. It is the wording that is important, as you can show the employer that you have spent time researching the company's activities.

Therefore, you can ask about the company's goals, vision for the future, as well as more detailed questions about your future employer.

Example: "When I was researching your company, I was interested in the fact that you support the volunteer movement. I would also like to use my professional skills and join your programmes, could you tell me more about them?"

Over-prepared answers or clichés

It is clear that preparing for an interview is very important, but having memorised answers to expected questions can play against you. The interviewer, of course, wants to hear a genuine answer and your opinion, not a cliché. Many people use pre-prepared answers during interviews, so being honest and open will help you stand out from the crowd.

Example: "I have to admit that in my last job I tried to take on too many responsibilities, which led to overload. So I asked for help from my colleagues, which helped us succeed."

Discuss your lack of experience

If you've decided to change your major or graduated, focus on presenting your strengths. Focus on your skills and experience that will help you in your new position and benefit the company. It's a good idea to mention your organisation, fluency in communication and ability to manage your time.

Example: "In my previous position, I had a fairly wide range of tasks, so despite my speciality, I have the necessary skills to organise the work process as a manager."

Personal information not related to the job or your qualifications

Of course, during the interview, you can use specific examples of life situations and professional jokes to help you be remembered and stand out among other candidates. However, you should not go overboard, as you want to be remembered by the employer for professional reasons, not for other reasons.

Therefore, it is advisable to avoid unnecessary information about your personal life, such as your family and hobbies. The exception may be situations where this information is directly relevant to the issue and will allow you to appear in a good light.

As OBOZREVATEL reported, the style of communication is one of the factors that affects self-confidence. The use of certain phrases can not only undermine your resolve, but also negatively affect your self-esteem, so it is better to avoid them.