Job interviews can sometimes be awkward and uncomfortable. You’re trying to make the best impression you can, but the stress of the situation often makes this a challenge. To make matters worse, saying something inappropriate can keep you from landing the job. You have to be prepared and be cautious of what you say. Here are three things you should never say during an interview.
“I’m Looking for Flexibility”
While many companies are moving towards flexible work hours, asking how long the hours are or suggesting you’re looking for flexible work hours can be a red flag to employers. It can give the wrong impression. You don’t want the hiring manager to think you intend to take a lot of time off. If you want to achieve a sense of how flexible the work hours will be, instead, ask what a typical day at the company is like. You will not only learn about the hours, you’ll also learn more about the position and what it entails.
“How Long Until I’m Promoted?”
Ambition is normally a good thing. But asking about promotions before you even have the job is too much. While employers usually want to hire people who want to stay with the company for many years to come, they also want to hire someone who is interested in the vacant position. Asking about promotions suggests to employers you’re not really interested in the job. Generally you want to keep the conversation focused on the current opening.
“What Is the Pay?”
The money talk will happen eventually. In some cases, the interviewer will bring up benefits and salary in the first interview. If they don’t bring it up, don’t ask about it. Of course, pay and benefits are an important thing to discuss, but asking about it too early will make it seem like you’re only in it for the money. You’ll make a better first impression if you keep the focus on what you have to offer the company, not what they have to offer you.
It can be hard to know what to say and what to ask during an interview. Really think about what your words have the potential to imply. The interviewer doesn’t know you and doesn’t know your backstory. You don’t want to say anything that can make you seem greedy or lazy. You definitely don’t want to say anything that makes it sound like you’re not interested in the job. Keep the focus on your skills and achievement so you can illustrate what you can bring to the company.
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