Is landing a job at a highly sought-after, lucrative company like Google, Facebook, or Microsoft an uphill battle for you?
The mastermind behind JupiterHR and seasoned career counselor Jermaine L. Murray is aware of the challenges you confront.
Together, let’s negotiate the challenging world of job interviews and make sure you steer clear of any crucial words or phrases that could give the interviewer the wrong idea.
It’s possible that these errors are preventing you. So, avoid uttering them at your next job interview.
Avoid saying “I’ll do anything.”
Speaking in such a desperate, nonspecific, and focused manner could come across. Candidates who know exactly what they can give are what employers seek.
Rather, communicate your enthusiasm for a certain position while demonstrating adaptability to avoid coming across as desperate.
You ought to state: “I’m passionate about [specific role/task] and believe I could excel there, but I’m also open to other roles where I can contribute effectively.”
- Refrain from asking, “What does your company do?”
Inquiring about the fundamental details of the organization implies a deficiency in planning and initiative. Companies anticipate that applicants will do prior research on the business.
Take the initiative instead. Show that you are aware of the company’s priorities and ask about particular projects.
Say something like this: “My understanding is that your company is focused on [what you know]. Could you elaborate on the ongoing projects in [certain department]?”
- Don’t Say: “I don’t have any weaknesses.”
Making perfection claims betrays a lack of self-awareness and a resistance to introspection. People who are willing to admit they can do better are highly valued by employers.
Instead, display self-awareness. Identify a particular area of weakness and demonstrate your desire to get better.
You ought to say: “A challenge I’ve faced is [specific weakness], but I’m actively working on it by [strategy/measure].”
- Refrain from saying, “I detested my previous boss.”
When you voice strong negative opinions about a past employer, it raises questions about your capacity to resolve issues and sustain professional relationships.
Instead, answer this difficult question with grace. Discuss your disagreements with your former boss while keeping the experience as a teaching tool in mind.
You ought to say: “I had some differing views with my previous supervisor, but I learned a lot about communication and teamwork.”
- Avoid Saying “I’m Not Sure.”
It might be harmful to acknowledge one’s ignorance without demonstrating a desire to learn. Candidates with autonomous problem-solving skills are desired by employers.
Rather, exhibit an openness to learning. Demonstrate your curiosity about the subject and describe your plan of action based on your knowledge.
You ought to say, “I’d be eager to investigate that.” Knowing what I do, I would tackle it in this manner.”
- Avoid saying anything like “You can just check my resume.”
Simply referring them to your CV can come across as callous and disinterested in sharing any details.
Instead, take advantage of the interview to offer more context. To demonstrate your depth, acknowledge your CV and provide extra information.
“Of course, that detail is in my resume,” you ought to respond. However, to clarify, [provide a more thorough explanation].”
- Refrain from asking, “When do I start getting paid?”
- If all of your attention is on being paid, it may come across as though money is your main priority. Candidates that are committed to the goal and vision of the company are sought after by employers.
- Show a balanced interest instead. Declare that you would like to talk about the entire benefits package after learning more about the position.
- You ought to respond with: “I’d appreciate it if we could discuss the entire compensation package once we’ve explored the role further.”
- By mastering these approach adjustments, you may transform an anxious interview into a productive discussion that opens doors to your ideal job opportunity.
- In 2024, take the initiative, dazzle the hiring managers, and land that well-paying position!
