Interviews are not just about answering questions they are about creating an impression. And guess what? 33% of hiring managers decide within the first 90 seconds whether they want to hire you. Small mistakes can cost you big opportunities. So, here are 7 things you should never say in an interview and what to say instead:

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"I am looking for any job I can get."

  • Why avoid this: This makes you sound desperate and suggests you have no specific interest in the role or company. It indicates you're applying randomly rather than strategically, which can make employers question your commitment and fit.

Start Saying: "I am excited about this role because it aligns with my skills and career goals."

  • Why say this instead: This response shows genuine interest in the specific position and demonstrates that you've thought about how it fits into your career path. Employers want candidates who are motivated by the actual role, not just seeking any employment opportunity.

"I don't know much about your company."

  • Why avoid this: This reveals a lack of preparation and interest. It suggests you didn't care enough to research before the interview, which can be interpreted as laziness or indifference.

Start Saying: "I have researched your company and am really impressed with [specific project, value, or achievement]."

  • Why say this instead: This demonstrates that you've taken the initiative to learn about the company, showing respect for the interviewer's time and genuine interest in the organization. Mentioning specific details proves you're making an informed decision about where you want to work.

"My greatest weakness is that I work too hard."

  • Why avoid this: This cliché response sounds insincere and evasive. It fails to demonstrate self-awareness or a genuine understanding of your development areas.

Start Saying: "I am working on improving [specific skill], and here's how I am addressing it."

  • Why say this instead: This shows honesty, self-awareness, and a growth mindset. By identifying a real area for improvement and explaining your proactive steps to address it, you demonstrate maturity and a commitment to professional development.

"What does my role even mean?"

  • Why avoid this: This question suggests you applied for a job without understanding the basic responsibilities, which indicates poor preparation and possibly poor judgment.

Start Saying: "How does this role contribute to the company's long-term goals?"

  • Why say this instead: This thoughtful question shows you're thinking beyond the job description and are interested in how your work would fit into the larger organizational context. It demonstrates strategic thinking and a desire to align your efforts with company objectives.

"How much time do I get off?"

  • Why avoid this: Asking about time off early in an interview creates the impression that you're more focused on not working than on the job itself, raising concerns about your work ethic and priorities.

Start Saying: "Can you tell me more about the work-life balance and overall culture here?"

  • Why say this instead: This broader question shows interest in the company culture while still addressing your legitimate concern about balance. It frames your inquiry in terms of culture and environment rather than just benefits, suggesting you care about finding the right fit overall.

"I left my last job because my manager was terrible."

  • Why avoid this: This negative statement can make you appear unprofessional and difficult to work with. It raises concerns about how you handle workplace challenges and whether you might speak poorly about your new employer in the future.

Start Saying: "I am looking for an environment where I can grow and contribute more effectively."

  • Why say this instead: This positive framing focuses on what you're seeking rather than what you're leaving behind. It shows maturity and forward-thinking, emphasizing your desire for professional development rather than dwelling on past negative experiences.

"How quickly can I get promoted?"

  • Why avoid this: This question can make you seem presumptuous and more interested in advancement than in the actual job you're interviewing for. It suggests you may be dissatisfied quickly if not promoted rapidly.

Start Saying: "What opportunities for growth and development are available in this role?"

  • Why say this instead: This more thoughtful question shows interest in long-term development while respecting the current position. It demonstrates that you're ambitious but also willing to invest time in learning and contributing before advancing, which employers value.

Remember that interviews are two way conversations your language choices reveal your professionalism, preparation, and potential cultural fit. These subtle shifts in communication can significantly impact how employers perceive your candidacy and ultimately influence their hiring decisions.