10 Things To Never Say In A Job Interview

When conducting an interview, the interviewer is not simply looking for the appropriate answers to their questions, but what your answers are sub-communicating about the type of professional you are. While you should be yourself during an interview, there are certain questions and topics to avoid in order to put your best foot forward. Here are ten things to never say in a job interview.

How much will I be compensated?

If payoff is what you’re most concerned about, this will immediately communicate to an interviewer that you don’t have the company’s best interests in mind. Interviewers know that compensation is an important part of the negotiation, and they will get to it once they consider you a good match for the position.

Talking down on your previous employers

The employer sees things from an employer’s point of view. So rather than agreeing that your previous employer didn’t know what they were doing, they will most likely assume that you are a difficult or stubborn employee.

Being overly cocky

Be confident in your abilities and what you can offer companies. But aggrandizing your previous accomplishments will only put an interviewer off. Most likely, they already understand your professional qualifications and are rather looking to see if you’re a good cultural fit for the position.

Saying that you hate your current job

Rather than explaining why your current job isn’t satisfying you, explain why the new position would be better suited to your talents.

Flirtatious or overly complimentary statements

Remember: You are a professional. How you may conduct yourself in your personal life should not express itself in your business persona.

Neglecting the fact that you have weaknesses

Everyone has areas where they can improve, and asking about your weaknesses is a common question during interviews. It’s to see how self-aware an individual is and how well they react to criticism. Neglecting the fact that you have shortcomings will only tell the interviewer that you may lack the necessary character traits to accept constructive criticism and grow from it.

Asking why the company may be doing poorly

No matter how well the company is performing, you’re in the position of wanting to work for them. Rather phrase your question in terms of the challenges they’re currently facing.

Asking about vacation time in the early stages of negotiation

Vacation time is an important part of the compensation package, but it should not be one of your top priorities when applying for a position. An employer may end up questioning whether you have the right motivational qualities.

Being overconfident in your qualifications

Once again, confidence is a great attribute to have and to nurture within yourself. But crossing the line to arrogance will only put you in a lesser light.

Not having any questions at the end of the interview

Having questions prepared for the end of an interview lets the interviewer know how serious you are about pursuing the position. It communicates insight, a well-researched background of the company, and how eager you are for the job.

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