By Kat Krull
It’s no secret that many people are extremely nervous come interview time. Not only do you need to know your work history like the back of your hand, but you also need to know everything possible about the company you’re interviewing at, the position, and your interviewer.
This nervousness can translate into saying something you don’t mean, whether it’s offensive, embarrassing or simply sheds a negative light on you as a job candidate. Whatever you do, try to avoid saying any of these things in your next interview:
1. “I don’t know.” The tough question pops up, and you have no idea how to answer it. If you can, try and avoid telling the interviewer you don’t know something. Find a way to answer the question even if it’s a struggle. A great tactic is to ask them to repeat the question or rephrase it as you think of a proper response.
2. “I just need someone to give me a chance, that’s all.” While being unemployed may have bruised your ego, don’t let it show. Instead, focus on selling your skills and experience and let the interviewer know how eager you are to get started should you be hired.
3. “My last boss was a jerk.” When asked about your last job, don’t share anything negative with your interviewer. Although you may have left because you didn’t get along with your manager, you don’t need to disclose that. Plus, it raises a red flag for the employer…and they may end up thinking you’re a difficult employee.
4. “I really need something to help me pay the bills.” Even if the job isn’t exactly what you’ve been looking for, no employer wants to hear that it isn’t your dream position. This indicates that you may leave for a better job in the coming months — and no interviewer wants to start the hiring process over again.
5. “I need my boss to be my best friend.” In a real story posted on MyCrappyResume, a woman answered a question “What do you need from a boss?” with this answer. Don’t tell the employer about how you’re lonely or that you don’t have friends. Desperation is a major turn-off.
6. “I didn’t get along with anyone at my former position, which is why I left.” Instead of focusing on the negatives of a former job, ask about the culture of the company you’re interviewing at. The interview is as much about you finding the best fit as the employer.
7. “I don’t have any questions.” When the hiring manager asks, “What questions do you have for me?” at the end of the interview, please ask something! This shows that you’re interested in the opportunity and have carefully thought through what it would be like to work there.
Want others to learn from your bad interview experience? Head over to MyCrappyResume and share your story anonymously.
What do you think? What else would you add to this list?
Kat Krull is the Marketing Manager of Resunate, a job application tool that tailors and optimizes your resume for a specific job. You can find Kat and Resunate on Facebook and Twitter.
