Nailing a job interview isn’t just about showcasing your skills and personality—it’s also about avoiding behaviors and phrases that might ruin your image. Below are some key things to steer clear of during an interview, along with tips for more positive alternatives.

1. Bad-Mouthing Your Current or Previous Employer

  • Why It’s a Problem: It makes you appear negative and prone to blame others if things don’t go well. Plus, the interviewer might worry you’ll speak poorly about them in the future, too.
  • What to Do Instead: Focus on what you learned and the challenges that helped you grow. Even if you had a difficult experience, frame it as a lesson rather than a complaint.

2. Phrases Like “I Don’t Know,” “I Can’t,” or “I Don’t Like That”

  • Why It’s a Problem: It suggests a lack of adaptability, willingness to learn, or teamwork spirit. Negative phrasing can come across as rigid or uncooperative.
  • What to Do Instead: If you don’t know something, say you’d like to learn more or that you’ll need time to find a solution. Show an openness to new ideas rather than shutting them down.

3. Oversharing Personal Details (That No One Asked About)

  • Why It’s a Problem: It can make you seem unprofessional or distract from your qualifications. Personal stories can also put the interviewer in an uncomfortable position if they’re too private.
  • What to Do Instead: Keep the tone friendly but professional. Share relevant work-related anecdotes rather than diving into personal issues.

4. Coming Across as Overconfident or Arrogant

  • Why It’s a Problem: It suggests you might not value teamwork or collaboration. Employers worry you could be difficult to work with.
  • What to Do Instead: Highlight your achievements through tangible examples but emphasize teamwork. Show how you contributed while working alongside others.

5. Bringing Up Salary or Benefits Too Early

  • Why It’s a Problem: While it’s important to discuss compensation eventually, jumping straight to “How much will I get paid?” can seem self-centered or impatient.
  • What to Do Instead: Let the interviewer lead the conversation toward salary. If they don’t, you can politely bring it up later in the process, once you’ve already showcased your value.

6. Sounding Disinterested or Apathetic

  • Why It’s a Problem: If you appear bored, unengaged, or as if you couldn’t care less about the job, the interviewer will likely move on to a more enthusiastic candidate.
  • What to Do Instead: Show genuine curiosity by asking thoughtful questions about the role, team, or company culture. Let them see you’re excited about the opportunity.

7. Being Vague About Your Goals or Motivation

  • Why It’s a Problem: Employers want to see you have direction. If your answers are too generic (e.g., “I just want a job…”), you might not stand out or may seem uncommitted.
  • What to Do Instead: Clearly state what you’re hoping to learn and achieve. Tie your goals to the company’s mission or specific aspects of the role.

Final Takeaway

Remember, interviews are about fit—and that goes both ways. While you’re demonstrating your suitability for the company, you also want to ensure the company is right for you. By avoiding negativity, showing adaptability, and striking a balance between confidence and humility, you can present yourself as a strong, collaborative candidate. Good luck!