Job interviews play a decisive role in determining your chances of landing a position in a company. After all, it is conducted for the purpose of providing the employer an opportunity to gauge the capabilities and character of an applicant. So everything that is said during this verbal exchange will be subject to deliberation.
As conversational as an interview may seem, you should still discern the details that you can disclose from the ones you must not voice out to a potential employer. That being the case, here are several things you should never, ever reveal during a job interview.
Displeasure for the previous job
Most, if not all of us, have had negative experiences in the professional landscape. From bad relationships with co-workers and superiors to poor workload management, toxicity in the workspace is more than enough of a reason to feel resentment for a company and leave the job for good.
Now as you open a new chapter in your career, it is best to leave the past behind. And this will only benefit you starting from the moment you get interviewed. How? Showing respect and even gratitude for the previous company you worked for will speak volumes of your character as an employee. This magnifies the optimistic, forward-looking attitude in you, which plenty of companies are eyeing for.
Feeling of nervousness
Have you ever been in a situation wherein you feel restless, have cold sweats, and a racing heartbeat moments before an interview? In case you have, then there is no doubt that you were nervous at that time. Worry not, though. It is normal to feel anxious about a situation that can make or break your chances of getting a job. But at least make it a point to try to overcome it, instead of crumbling under pressure.
Think about it — if you already can\’t handle the mental demands of a mere interview, how will a potential employer be convinced that you are a trusted asset that can deal with their business affairs in the future?
Aside from that, the feeling of nervousness can come off as a lack of confidence as well. So, despite not having an ounce of belief in yourself at the moment, be confident still. Well, as the saying goes, \”Fake it till you make it\”. Also, just make sure not to go over the line and come off as cocky.
Desperation for a position
A job hunt can truly be hard. There will be stretches where you would feel hopeless after a slew of rejections from companies you eagerly want to work in. Still, despite being surrounded with an air of desperation, learn how to conceal it, especially when you are having an interview for that elusive shot at landing a job.
Hiring managers see a desperate job seeker as someone who lacks self-confidence. So, learn how to turn that desperation into something positive. Take for example a simple handshake to commemorate the start of an interview. If you come off with a sense of despair, you will never be able to deliver a firm handshake, which is often a gauge of a person\’s self-confidence. Instead, convert that negative energy into enthusiasm the next time you extend out your hand to greet a prospective employer.
All in all, desperation will always cause an undesirable effect on your body language, forming this negative impression of yourself to others. Fair warning: It can also attract detrimental superiors in your career — senior staff who would prey on subordinates that are easy to manipulate. Abuse of authority is a common occurrence in every industry, so avoid it at all costs by coming off with self-possession the moment you apply for a company.
Entitled mentality
There may come a time in your professional career that a position you are qualified for is not available at the moment, so taking a lesser role in a company is the only choice in the meantime. If ever a situation like that arises, make sure not to harbor an entitled mindset. This could lead to an immediate downfall during job interviews.
According to Forbes, many interviewers see applicants who \”had the nerve to say \’This job is just a stepping stone for me.\’\” in a negative light. While it is downright honest, the arrogance of the statement\’s tone is the only thing that will rub off on the people assessing you. Also, remember that the position, which you consider a stepping stone, is vacant for a reason. The company needs an individual who can and will fulfill that certain role in the long run, not someone who will jump ship the moment he or she sees fit.
Comparative overview of salaries
One of the most common reasons for leaving a job and searching for a different one is the desire for greener pastures. This should not come as no surprise since it has long been known that the cost of living comes with a hefty price. It takes time, effort and sacrifices to meet its demand.
So, it goes without saying that money matters matter. Still, when it comes to job interviews, you should be cautious when talking about salaries. If there is one topic about it that you should not speak of, that would be the amount of money you will get from the job you\’re applying for from the other positions you\’ve been offered. That disclosure will only reveal that you are only after the paycheck, instead of coming as someone who can contribute for the benefit of a company.
Ace the job interviews
Always remember that every action you take and every word you mention during job interviews will be used to assess you. So, soak in the knowledge and increase the chances of landing a job in your dream company!