As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, making a positive impression during a job interview is crucial. One careless comment can ruin your chances of securing the position you want. Unfortunately, some candidates still speak before thinking. For instance, when asked why he wanted the job, one interviewee responded by saying, "Because my mom thought it was a good idea," recalls Corinne Mills, managing director of Personal Career Management.
According to Richard Nott, website director at CWJobs.co.uk, candidates should avoid discussing politics and religion during an interview. Employers prefer candidates who can speak passionately about their interests, as it helps them get to know the candidate better. However, sharing views on sensitive topics like politics and religion can be risky unless the interviewer shares the same perspective.
To help you make a good impression during your next job interview, we asked Nott, Mills, and Nik Pratap of Hays Senior Finance for their list of things to avoid saying.
Here are the top ten:
"Sorry I'm late." Being punctual is key. Your interviewer does not want you to arrive late every morning if you are hired.
"What's your annual leave and sickness policy?" Asking about time off before even being hired is not a good look.
"I'll just take this call." Taking phone calls or text messages during an interview is not acceptable.
"Doing your job." When asked where you see yourself in five years, never threaten the interviewer's job. Instead, try to build a response around the experience you would like to have gained and the level of responsibility you would like to have.
"My previous employer sucked." Speaking negatively about a former employer is unprofessional and reflects poorly on your character. Your new employer may contact your former employer for references after the interview, so it's not wise to burn bridges.
"You make widgets? I thought you made cricket bats." Failing to research your prospective employer is a big mistake. Employers expect more than just a quick glance at their website.
"Bloody hell." Swearing during an interview is never acceptable, regardless of how the interviewer behaves.
"I was very good at sorting out PEBs by using ARCs." Avoid using industry jargon or assuming the interviewer understands your experience. Speak clearly about your skills and experience to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
"Do I really have to wear that uniform?" Criticizing the staff uniform will not go over well with the interviewer.
"The perks, the pay, lunchtimes, my co-workers, or the holidays." When asked what you expect to enjoy most about the role, do not mention the perks, pay, or other similar things. Instead, focus on how the role aligns with your career goals and how you can make a positive contribution to the company.
By avoiding these ten common mistakes, you can increase your chances of making a positive impression during your next job interview. Good luck!