
Did you know that 95% of interviewers make up their mind in first the 10 minutes? Your first impression in a job interview is crucial.
Words are everything for students and employees who are trying to nail that dream job. But many unwittingly wreck their chances with the wrong kind of phrases. Those slip-ups make you look unprepared or unprofessional.
Here’s a list of 6 phrases you shouldn’t say. This takes the form of why they are wrong, and what to say instead. Ready to ace your next interview? Let’s begin.
These pointers are sufficient to get you off on the right foot while avoiding pitfalls in interviews with potential employers.
why it’s a mistake
Interviewers often ask about weaknesses for job interview to assess growth.
It sounds very dishonest if a person says this in a job interview. Every person has at least one area where they can improve. But in the case of job interviewers, asking about weaknesses serves to judge the extent of self-awareness. Denial of one’s faults also implies a lack of reflection or possible growth. It seems arrogant.
what to say instead
“I sometimes tend to overthink details, but I am working on prioritizing outcomes.”
This assures both openness and a proactive spirit. These are rather good examples of an interview weakness, which is true yet not too critical.
why it is a mistake
Negativity reflects in you. Because of a phrase like this, the employer may believe that you are one of those who will argue about your current employer or hire another person. Professionalism with a negative phrase like that raises a flag about your attitude regarding the organization.
what to say instead
“Well, I found my last job a little challenging, but I learned to be adaptable pretty quickly.”
That’s a positive way to answer. It shows resilience without badmouthing anyone.
why it is a mistake
That means you are not prepared. While taking interview questions in general, interviewers want this “know-it-all” performance from you.
Saying this doesn’t inspire confidence when asked challenging questions,
It misses a chance to show your problem-solving skills.
what to say instead
“I haven’t had that experience yet, but I would investigate and find solutions.”
That indicates curiosity and initiative. It takes weakness and turns it into a positive.
why it’s a mistake
Indicates poor preparation, and a lack of ability to research is also emphasized in practice interview questions. This would make you seem unmotivated when asking this during questions to ask during an interview because research would imply you weren’t interested.
what to say instead
“I read you focus on innovation—can you share more about that?”
This proves that you did your homework on that company and also opens room to discuss a little deeper.
why it is a mistake
It shifts the focus to you instead of the employer. Interviewers want you to add value from their perspective. This sounds desperate during job interview questions rather than critical for the company’s goals and your fit into that role.
what to say instead
“I can’t wait to bring my skills to your team for success.”
Emphasizing enthusiasm marks your focus on the role’s impact.
why it’s a mistake
Indicates a lack of interest. Asking questions to ask during interview shows involvement. This makes one seem passive by saying this. Misses the opportunity to find out more about this role or the company’s culture.
what to say instead
“What skills do your best performers have in common in this role?”
This shows curiosity. It also goes a long way to help you have a better understanding of expectations.
Try practice interview questions to build confidence before the big day.
Mastering job interview questions can transform your career. The phrases provide confidence and professionalism.
A 2023 Linkedin study found 70% of hiring managers value self-awareness. These responses can separate you if used correctly. Your mistakes are not the point; it is demonstrating your capability.
Secondly: Preparation is of the essence .
By doing the common interview questions, you can relax yourself under stress. It even allows you to shape your answers to the post.
Some examples are a teacher might highlight managing a disruptive class effectively. These strategies can be useful all across the board for students and employees.
Interviews aren’t ATM’s. 6 hrases to avoid if you want to increase your odds,
That’s where your skill level comes in.
Check out interview tips on e-newcademy.com and grab your dream job now!
What phrase will you avoid? Share in the comments!
Before we finish our article, we’d like to introduce you to 2 courses from our partner universities Futurelearn!
If you want to succeed in your interviews, these courses will be a very good investment for you as they will help you boost your job interview success:
– “Work Ready Skills: Job Searches, Writing a CV and Interviewing“ from Central Queensland University for a complete course to find the job of your dreams!
– Want to become a Java developer? Consider preparing for interviews with the online course “Interview Preparation for Java Developers”!
– Would you like to enroll in a nursing course at one of our universities? University of East Anglia’s “Interview Skills for University Nursing Programme Applicants” course will help you make the most of your time and gain entry to a prestigious program!
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