20 Things to Never Say at Interview

An interview is a high-stakes situation when the pressure of the moment can cause a candidate to say things that are not in their best interests. There are surprisingly many things that you should never say at interview.

While there is a lot to be said for a standard relaxed approach during an interview, avoiding the following 20 examples would go a long way to giving yourself the best chance of success. Each of the following would make an interviewer that little bit less keen to offer you the job. A couple of instances may be forgiven, but multiple transgressions will guarantee you a spot on the rejects pile.

Things to never say at interview

“I am a game-changing disruptor who boils the ocean.” That doesn’t mean anything. At all. You have a limited time to impress in an interview – avoid empty slang and jargon.

Anything offensive, sexist, racist, discriminatory. You absolutely must tread carefully during an interview. There is no excuse for these sentiments in any kind of conversation. 

“You won’t find anyone more suited to the role.” These sorts of comments come across as arrogant and self-important. You don’t know who else has applied (external or internal).

“I know that I am probably not the most qualified person.” On the other hand, false modesty is a sure way to find your way onto the rejects pile. Sell your skills hard.

Any question where the answer is on their website. If you ask a question where the answer is easy to find, they will assume that you have not bothered to do your homework.

“I want to find a boss that I can vibe with.” You may have had relationship issues with a previous boss but avoid the topic if you can. Oh, and avoid casual words such as “vibe.”

Acting nonchalant, playing it cool, as if you aren’t excited. No employer will be keen to give you the job if you act like you aren’t bothered. It isn’t a negotiation tactic; it is simply rude.

“This will be an ideal stepping stone for my next move.” You need to make the hiring manager feel special. Mentally moving on before you start the job is not a good omen.

Any kind of lie about your experience or skills. You might choose to tell white lies about your future plans, but when it comes to your actual experience, you have to tell it as it is.

“I like your watch/dress/tie.” Steer clear of personal comments about the interviewer’s personal appearance. This is not an appropriate small talk topic for an interview.

Call the interviewer by the wrong name. Attending multiple interviews, it is easy for the mind to wander and to get an interviewer’s name wrong. Try not to, for obvious reasons.

“I have my childcare all lined up.” You are not legally obliged to mention anything about your family life. If asked about availability, simply say that you can work the hours.

“Didn’t you see that on my CV?” While the interviewer might have a copy of your CV, they may not have read it before the interview. Assume that they haven’t read it.

Don’t try to make them feel sorry for you. Don’t guilt-trip the interviewer into giving you a job by telling them your personal sob story. Stick to why you are a great candidate.

“Um, like, well, yeah, hmmm, errr.” While conversation should flow naturally, try to avoid empty filler words. There is nothing wrong with silence if you want a moment to think.

Anything that hints at desperation. Don’t let on that you need the job. That might be the case but focus on demonstrating your worth. Your next role will come soon enough.

“Hey, what are you doing after work today?” Do not flirt with your interviewer. They might not be your future boss, but if you feel that connection, don’t act on it until you get the job.

“No, I don’t really have any questions.” In a two-way interview process, such disinterest will confuse an employer. Explore the possibilities with insightful and challenging questions.

Talking too early about salary, benefits and working arrangements. Don’t mention the finer points of the employment contract until you have had a chance to impress them.

“I’m sorry, I have to take this call.” With vanishingly few exceptions, there is no call that can’t wait until after the interview has finished. Be courteous – turn your phone off.

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This blog is shared with Job Seeker Duetists.

Written by former recruitment ghostwriter Paul Drury (not AI).