Attending a job interview is an exciting and daunting experience – one that A Star Recruitment can help you fully prepare for.
Much of an interview consists of the interviewer asking you about your suitability for both the role and the company offering the position. You are then given the opportunity to ask a couple of questions yourself – this usually happens towards the conclusion of the interview. While it’s a great chance for you to get your personality across, if you say the wrong thing at this or any other point in the interview, it could be very costly to your chances of being offered the job.
Below the A Star Recruitment team have put together a few tips about what not to say in a job interview to ensure you are well equipped for every opportunity that comes your way.
Do not criticise former employers
It may well be that you have some grievances with your former, or even your current, employers. It could be the reason you left, or are looking to leave, but being seen to be overly critical of employers in your interview will send the wrong message to the company assessing you.
You will no doubt be asked why you left your previous position or why you are looking to leave your current place of employment. If differences with your employer is part of the reason, then you can still get that point across without criticising them. Simply mask over any issues you have by putting it down to wanting to move in a different direction with your career. It’s important not to appear disrespectful.
Do not talk about money
Unless the interviewer asks you about your salary expectations, talking about money – or potential for pay rises – is definitely among what not to say in a job interview.
Normally any discussions about salary will be left until you have been offered the job. Bringing it up during the interview gives the impression that your primary concern is money and not the job at hand.
If you are presented with a job offer, a salary will be included. If you are unhappy with the figure, then this would be a reasonable time to discuss the matter – not before.
Do not ask about holidays
Everybody enjoys annual leave! It’s a chance to spend time with family and friends and it’s always good to have time off to recharge your batteries. That said, discussing the amount of holiday you will receive per year is certainly among what not to say at a job interview.
You will find out your holiday allowance in your job offer. Once this has been received you can then raise any concerns. The issue could be as simple as you already have a trip booked and you want to make sure that it is not a problem before you start your new job.
Make sure you have questions to ask
You will normally get the chance to ask a couple of questions and add your own touch to the interview – this usually happens towards the end. If you are asked if you have any questions or if there is anything else you would like to know, make sure you have something to ask.
Prepare ahead of the interview but try to be responsive to things that have been mentioned. If something takes your interest or there is something you want to know more about then ask a question about it. It will show you pay attention and that you have been concentrating and engaged in the interview. A good ‘go to’ question is to ask the interviewer what they like about working for the company.
If you would like to learn more about what not to say in a job interview then get in contact with the helpful, experienced A Star Recruitment team. We offer tips and advice on numerous job-related topics. If you are still looking for a position to apply for you can check out our jobs board.
