During an interview, you are essentially highlighting your talents and why you need to be considered for the job. With that in mind, there are several things you should avoid saying in an interview. Here’s a look at what may raise a red flag from your interviewer.
A Lack of Specific Examples
In an interview setting (whether in person or over the phone), your interviewer will be asking you questions about your past experiences and work history. These questions will help them paint a picture of how you will add value to their team. During this process, it is important to detail specific examples of the skills and abilities you wish to promote. Many candidates may be inclined to exaggerate their experiences and will stumble when asked for specifics of their successes. Interviewers are trained to ask questions that drill down to the measurable results that candidates have achieved for previous employers. Focus on the numbers, provide concrete examples, and even tell those personal stories of how you acted on the job in the past that helped you achieve your successes.
Incongruities with Your Resume
A big red flag for interviewers is if, when talking with a candidate about their work history, they notice a difference between their verbal story and the story their resume tells. Resume incongruity is an all too common occurrence, but don’t make the same mistake. The penalty for “padding” your resume to get past the initial gatekeepers of a job opportunity are steep indeed. You want to make sure that you are presenting yourself in an upfront and honest way so you can be clear about what you bring to the table.
An Unprofessional Demeanor
It seems obvious, but you might be surprised how unprofessional some candidates can be. Bring your best self to an interview in every way. Be polite. Be friendly. Be professional. If the candidate is late for the interview, without providing an apology and a good reason, that shows a lack of professionalism that can impact job performance. The same goes for professional presentations, mannerisms, and even how you interact with support staff. Don’t speak poorly or unprofessionally about previous bosses or coworkers. Avoid complaining about the job you are looking to leave. Don’t ask what the pay rate for the job you are applying to is.
Don’t tell the interviewer that you want their job. Do not say anything that might be considered flirtatious or inappropriate. Don’t ask how much vacation you would get. Don’t ask about what their work from home policy is. Steer clear of any negative comments about the company you are applying to join. Take the interview seriously. Ask good questions. Be smart. Be polite. Be humble. These are the qualities that interviewers are looking for not only in their new hires but also in their potential colleagues.
Prepare for Your Next Interview
For more tips on how to prepare for your next interview, connect with the team at ESGI today.
