Of course there are several articles that give tips on what TO say in an interview but what about the NOT TO say list? First off, your interview could be the most important thing that stands between you and your new career. Interview prep is the key to answering those probing questions that employer ask. Below are six things that you should never say during an interview.
1.) Sorry, I am late.
Punctuality is one of the many traits that employers look for in employees. I would not want to hire someone who shows up to work late every day. Make sure that you arrive on time so that you can avoid saying, “Sorry, I am late.”
2.) How many vacation days do I get?
Employees want someone who is totally interested in the job, not the benefits. If you ask about the number of vacation days you will be getting, the employers could get the impression that you are planning an extended absence from the work. I would want to hire someone who I can count on to show up to work every day.
3.) My previous employer was a jerk.
Regardless of how awful your previous employer was, you should never say anything bad about him/her. That is not only unprofessional, but that speaks badly about your own character. Additionally, most companies will contact your previous employers.
4.) I will take this call.
You should never take a call or answer a text during your interview. I would immediately deny someone who used their cellphone during an interview because that is not only unprofessional, but it is also rude. It is best to put your cellphone on silent before you go into your interview.
5.) I do not have any weakness.
Employers almost always ask potential employees about strengths and weakness. You should never say that you do not have any weaknesses because no one is perfect. If a potential employee told me that he did not have any weakness, I would get the impression that he is pompous and arrogant.
6.) How much does this job pay?
You never want to make it seem like money is your only goal when interviewing for a new job. The employer understands that compensation is a major deciding factor for taking the job or not, however you didn’t accept the interview just to see how much they are going to pay you, there must have been some interest beforehand. If the employer brings it up it’s best to answer a target salary question with “competitive” so you don’t under or overprice yourself out of the job.
Again, your interview could be the one thing that stands between you and a new career. That is why interview prep is so important.
About the Author
Tim Nelson of MAP career magement in Houston specializes in professional career advancement. You can find Tim on Twitter and Google+.
