5 things you should never say in an interview

Ah, job interviews. The nerve-wracking experience that can make even the most confident person break out in a cold sweat. We’ve all been there, desperately trying to impress the interviewer and land that dream job. But sometimes, despite our best intentions, we say things that can instantly derail our chances of success. In this article, we’ll explore the top five things you should never say during an interview, unless you want to crash and burn.

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5 things you should never say during a job interview

1. Avoid mentioning your salary expectations too early in the process. Money is important, but discussing it prematurely can make you come across as overly focused on compensation rather than the job itself. Instead, let the employer bring up the topic when the time is right.
2. Never say that you have no weaknesses. We all have areas for improvement, and pretending otherwise makes you seem arrogant and unwilling to grow. Instead, acknowledge your weaknesses and discuss how you’ve worked to overcome them or how you’re actively working on self-improvement.
3. Avoid talking about personal problems or drama. Your interviewer is not your therapist, and sharing personal issues can make you appear unprofessional and unreliable. Keep the conversation focused on your qualifications and the job at hand.
4. Never say that you’re only interested in the position because of the salary or benefits. Employers want to know that you have a genuine passion for the work and the company. Instead, highlight the aspects of the role that genuinely excite you and how they align with your career goals.
5. Never badmouth a previous employer or colleague. It’s a small world, and you never know who your interviewer might know. Speaking negatively about others reflects poorly on your character and professionalism. Instead, focus on what you learned from your previous experiences and how you’ve grown as a professional.

The importance of interview preparation

Walking into an interview without doing your homework is like going to a battle without a weapon – you’re setting yourself up for failure. Research the company, familiarise yourself with the job description, and anticipate potential questions. By being well-prepared, you’ll boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.

Common interview mistakes to avoid

Another common mistake is failing to ask questions. An interview is not only an opportunity for the employer to assess your suitability for the role, but also for you to evaluate if the company is the right fit for you. Take the chance to ask thoughtful questions about the company culture, growth opportunities, and the expectations for the role.

Read our article on the 10 best questions to ask at a job interview for more tips.

Best practices for successful interviews

Now that we’ve covered what not to say during an interview, let’s shift our focus to best practices for successful interviews.

1. Be punctual. Arriving late sends a message that you don’t value the interviewer’s time. Plan your journey in advance, allowing for unexpected delays. It’s better to be early and wait than to be late and flustered.
2. Dress appropriately. Your appearance speaks volumes about your professionalism and respect for the company. Dress one step above the company’s dress code to show that you take the interview seriously. Remember, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Get some helpful styling tips in our article What to wear at work.
3. Maintain good eye contact and body language. Avoid slouching or fidgeting, as it can make you come across as disinterested or nervous. Instead, sit up straight, make eye contact, and engage with the interviewer through active listening and thoughtful responses.

10 things to do during an interview

To ensure you make the best impression during an interview, here are ten things you should do:

1. Research the company and role thoroughly.
2. Prepare answers to common interview questions.
3. Dress professionally.
4. Arrive early.
5. Maintain good eye contact.
6. Practice active listening.
7. Ask thoughtful questions.
8. Showcase your relevant skills and experiences.
9. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
10. Follow up with a thank-you note or email after the interview.

By following these ten tips, you’ll increase your chances of success and leave a lasting positive impression on the interviewer.

Interview etiquette and professional behaviour

In addition to the best practices mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to adhere to interview etiquette and display professional behaviour throughout the process. This includes being polite and respectful to everyone you encounter, from the receptionist to the interviewer. Treat everyone with kindness and professionalism, as their opinions of you may be taken into consideration.

During the interview, be mindful of your language and avoid using slang or inappropriate jokes. Maintain a professional tone and speak clearly and confidently. Avoid interrupting the interviewer and give them your full attention. Remember, good manners and professional behaviour can go a long way in making a positive impression.