Job Interview 5 Things Not To Say
When it comes to an interview, what a candidate says can and may be used against them. Saying the wrong thing could easily cost a candidate a job that they are well qualified for. Once something inappropriate has been said, the chances of getting a second chance or an opportunity to apologize or explain are slim. To avoid disasters like this, here are some things to never say during a job interview:
1. My old boss was a jerk. No matter now negatively a candidate feels about a previous employer, they should never reveal this. Bad mouthing a previous employer not only makes the candidate look bad, but it may also signal to the potential employer that they were difficult to manage.
Tip: If a candidate is asked about a potential employer during a job interview, they should keep their tone positive. Instead of harping on parts of the job that they did not care for, pick one positive thing about it and move on.
2. How much does this job pay? As a general rule, a candidate should never ask about salary. Not only can it come across as rude, but it may also signal to the potential employer that a candidate is only after the job for the money. While salary is always an important consideration when seeking a job, most employers would prefer to hire someone with a passion for the position.
Tip: Whether a candidate is interviewing for top companies or staffing agencies, they should always refrain from asking about salary if possible. Instead of asking, a quick internet search can help you develop a clear idea of where to set your salary expectations.
3. Weaknesses? I don't have any. A candidate should always be prepared to list their strengths and weaknesses when talking to possible future employerr. While this may seem counter-intuitive, if a candidate denies having any weaknesses, they may come across as dishonest. Everyone has flaws, knowing how to present them correctly can make a huge difference.
Tip: When asked about a weakness, job candidates should be honest and state how they have worked to improve upon their issue. Not only does this show the employer that they are honest, but also that the candidate is committed to continually improving.
4. I'm the most qualified candidate. There is no way for you to know that you are the most qualified candidate without having seen the other contenders. In cases like this, being overly confident can hurt a candidate's chances of getting a job.
Tip: To avoid sounding cocky or overly confident, candidates should stress that they strive to be the best at what they do. This can let the potential employer know that regardless of whether or not a candidate is most qualified, they are willing to work hard to get the job done.
5. How much vacation do I get? At the end of an interview, employers nearly always ask the candidate if they have any questions for them. This is really a time for them to shine. Asking trivial questions about things like vacation time and telecommuting opportunities should be reserved for once an offer has already been made.
Tip: When an employer asks a candidate if they have any questions, they should try to use this opportunity to flex their knowledge about the company. This lets the employeer know that the candidate has done their research and is genuinely interested in being there.
Interviews can be unnerving. Knowing the do's and don'ts of what to say can help a candidate accentuate their best features. These 5 tips can help them make sure that their first impression is a lasting one.
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