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

During an interview, it's not just what you say, but also how you express yourself that matters. This is what helps the employer determine whether you are the right candidate for the job.

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

Why what you say at the interview is important

Everything you say during the interview is analyzed by the company's manager. This will help them understand several important things about you, such as your motivation and qualifications. Moreover, it will be equally important to understand whether you can fit into the team and cultural environment of the employing company. That is why it is worth remembering 10 things not to 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 emotion.

In addition, this position will demonstrate that you can remain positive regardless of the situation. It may even signal to the company manager that you will be able to fit in perfectly and will easily 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: "Although I really enjoyed my previous position, I am looking to utilize my experience in a leadership role. Where I can help others reach their potential and succeed. However, my previous employer did not have any management positions available, and does not expect any to appear in the near future."

"I don't know"

It is 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's a good idea to thank them for the question and ask for a moment to think about it in order to provide a more detailed and informative answer.

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

Discussing benefits, vacations, and pay

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

It is also 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 in your company."

"It's in my resume"

There may be a situation where the answers to the manager's questions are perfectly written in your resume. However, you should still answer each of them in your own words, providing additional information.

It is possible that the interviewer has already read your resume, but they want to know more about you. Therefore, it is extremely important to give a detailed 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 management, I managed not only to achieve record performance, but also to build a well-coordinated team. I believe that it was the success of our team that allowed the company to become an industry leader."

Lay 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 a specific jargon, but you should avoid slang, obscene expressions, 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. So, you should take your time and think about your answers. And you can easily replace complementary words with short pauses, which will also give you time to think about your answer.

Example: "My experience tells me that it is quite possible to optimize 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 extremely important to prepare questions for this case in advance. This will demonstrate to the employer that you are interested in the position and the company in general.

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 intend to achieve this goal."

Ask what the company does

It is quite easy to find answers to such questions before the interview. Of course, you should avoid asking directly what the company does. It is the wording that is important, because you can show the employer that you have spent time and researched 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 programs, could you tell me more about them?"

Over-prepared answers or clichés

It is clear that preparing for an interview is extremely important, but memorized answers to expected questions can play against you. The interviewer certainly wants to hear a genuine answer and your opinion, but not clichés. 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 achieve success."

Discussing your lack of experience

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

Example: "In my previous position, I had a wide range of tasks, so despite my specialty, I have the necessary skills to organize 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 from life situations and professional jokes to help you be remembered and stand out among other candidates. However, you shouldn't go overboard, as you want to be remembered by the employer for professional reasons, not 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 related to the question 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.