5 Words That Can Ruin Your Interview (And How To Avoid Them)

The interview process is a pivotal moment in your job search journey, where every word you utter and how you articulate it can profoundly influence an interviewer’s perception of your candidacy.
BLOG IMAGE

5 Words That Can Ruin Your Interview (And How To Avoid Them)

Picture this: you’re sitting across from the interviewer, heart racing, palms sweating, and trying your best to impress. Sounds familiar?

The interview process is a pivotal moment in your job search journey, where every word you utter and how you articulate it can profoundly influence an interviewer’s perception of your candidacy. 

Preparing for an interview involves not only rehearsing your responses to common questions but also carefully considering the nuances of what you should and shouldn’t say. In this article, we’ll guide you through the dos and don’ts of interview communication, providing practical tips to help you leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of success. 

Let’s dive in and ace that interview together with Integrated Recruitment Specialists!

Here are 5 words you should steer clear of in your interview.

– along with tips on how to manage them with confidence.

“Bored”

Expressing boredom during an interview can signal a lack of interest or enthusiasm, which can significantly diminish your chances of securing the position. Instead, seize the opportunity to showcase your passion for the industry or specific aspects of the role that genuinely excite you. You’ll leave a lasting impression on the interviewer by demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and interest.

“I Don’t Know” 

Responding with a vague “I don’t know” can convey a lack of preparedness or confidence, which is not ideal in an interview setting. Instead of admitting defeat, consider reframing the question or expressing your need for additional information. This not only demonstrates your resourcefulness and critical thinking skills but also allows you to steer the conversation towards your strengths and areas of expertise.

“My previous boss/company” 

Speaking negatively about your previous boss or company is a major red flag for interviewers, as it may raise concerns about your professionalism and ability to work effectively within a team. Instead of dwelling on the negatives, focus on the positive aspects of your past experiences and the valuable lessons you’ve learned along the way. Emphasise your growth and readiness for new challenges, rather than dwelling on past grievances.

“Obviously”

Using the word “obviously” when answering a question in an interview can come across as arrogant, condescending or dismissive, which can be off-putting to interviewers as we wouldn’t be asking if it was obvious and are trying to understand better. Instead of assuming that something is obvious, take the time to explain your thought process and the rationale behind your answers. By articulating your ideas clearly and respectfully, you’ll demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and engage in meaningful dialogue.

“It’s on My Resume”

Merely referring to your resume during an interview is a missed opportunity to showcase your qualifications, skills, and achievements more compellingly and memorably. Instead of reciting information from your resume, use the opportunity to provide context, elaborate on your experiences, and highlight relevant accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the role.

 

Bonus Tips: 

  • Having a rich vocabulary and giving well-thought-out remarks can increase your chances of success in job interviews. 
  • Practising your answers in advance can boost your clarity, raise your self-assurance, and keep you mentally sound in the interview.

 

We hope this advice helps! 

At Integrated Recruitment Specialists, we’re committed to your success. Whether you’re pursuing your dream job or seeking top talent, we’re here to support you.

Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.

Looking for your dream job, or seeking exceptional candidates for your company?  Contact us at info@integratedrecruitment.com.au or (07) 5613 1846 for more information. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Table of Contents

Subscribe

Stay up to date with the latest recruitment trends and generalist human resources support.

Subscribe to our FREE monthly newsletter to receive the latest updates: