08/01/2017
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There are times when people say the wrong things and assume that what they said is of no consequence. Here are a few things to avoid saying during a job interview.
1. Sorry I'm late
This is one of the most common things that many people mistakenly say during a job interview. The only sure way to avoid making this mistake is by arriving for the interview at least an hour earlier. Being late for an interview indicates that you are unreliable and that counting on you is a mistake. An interview is an opportunity for you to prove that you are the right candidate for the job and that you are reliable. If you are late for an interview, when you still do not have the job, then how late will you be when you actually get it?
2. I prefer working alone
This is a red light because all the interviewer hears is that you cannot work with other members of the team. Although there is nothing wrong with preferring to work alone at times, this is not something that you should tell your prospective employer. In addition, most companies require members of different departments to work together to achieve certain objectives or goals. By admitting that you prefer to work alone you are simply saying that you do not care about the company as a whole.
3. I am leaving my job because I hate my boss/company
It does not matter how bad your boss is, keep it to yourself during the job interview. In fact, avoid saying anything negative about your previous employer or company. Working in a toxic environment can be frustrating and you might be tempted to let the world and your prospective employer know. However, this is something that you can only tell your friends and family members. In case the interviewer asks why you would like to leave your current company, simply say that you feel the need to challenge yourself or the need to work for a bigger organization. Interviewers are looking to hire people with a positive attitude and not candidates who have nothing good to say about others. Expressing your negative attitude about your current or previous employer indicates that you are a difficult person who may not easily get along with others in the new company.
4. I am so OCD
Unless you suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, which is a mental illness, refrain from using this statement during a job interview. Most people use this statement to mean that they are highly organized and pay attention to detail. However, if you do not suffer from the condition, but say that you are OCD about your work, you offend those who suffer from the condition and might just ruin your chances of getting the job. If you indeed have the condition, then you have the right to decide to tell your interviewers or avoid the topic altogether. However, some people take advantage of their health conditions or disorders to get people to do things for them or to get what they want. Therefore, avoid mentioning that you have a medical condition unless specifically asked.
On the same breath, do not mention your strengths as your weaknesses. For example, do not say that being a perfectionist is your weakness. Your interviewer will know that you are lying since everyone has a weakness. Portraying your strength as a weakness means that you prefer being seen to be right even when you are clearly on the wrong.
5. I am applying for this position because it will enable me to...
These words make all the focus to shift from the job interview to you. To avoid making this mistake, talk about what you will bring to the business. Remember, most people are seldom sure that they will be employed after a job interview. Therefore, trust your gut feeling and just give your best shot. In addition, be sure to highlight your strengths and achievements.
6. I would like to know about your vacation policy
Please do not ask such a question during a job interview. Asking such a question indicates that you are mostly eager to go on a vacation even before you have proved your work. Prospective employers want to see that you are enthusiastic about your new role and not the organization's vacation policy.
Source: Ezinearticles
Ryan Thames, founder of Pinnacle Publishers, is an entrepreneur, business and author coach, internet marketer, and snowboard enthusiast. If you are interested in learning more about how to nail a job interview, then you should check out this book: The Successful Interview, 2nd Ed.-Why Should We Hire You? It will teach you all the do's and don'ts of an interview, as well as interview etiquette, how to answer questions, and how to prepare for the interview. You can view it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Interview-Successful-2nd-Should-Hire/dp/0692647813/.
© 2017 Ryan ThamesThe views and opinions expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect those of College Central Network, Inc. or its affiliates. Reference to any company, organization, product, or service does not constitute endorsement by College Central Network, Inc., its affiliates or associated companies. The information provided is not intended to replace the advice or guidance of your legal, financial, or medical professional.