By Kate
Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com Editor
Information abounds
regarding what you should say in an interview. But it can be just as important
to realize what not to say. It is also imperative to note that what you say
say can be communicated through both your words and actions.
1. You arrive late to the interview.
What it means: "I really don't care about
getting this position."
Arrive a healthy 15 minutes before your scheduled
appointment to give you time to collect your thoughts, review your notes and
make a good first impression.
2. You're rude to the receptionist.
What it means: "I'm difficult to get along
with."
Receptionists are the gate keepers and it's their
job to be the eyes and ears of the company," cautions Lauren Milligan, founder
and CEO of ResuMAYDAY, Inc. Besides, if hired, you may need their cooperation
one day.
3. You answer questions with trite or cliché
responses.
What it means: "I'm just one of the crowd."
Telling the interviewer you are a perfectionist and
expect too much of yourself is sure to elicit a yawn, if not a discreet roll
of the eyes, Milligan warns. Prepare potential responses ahead of time to
avoid relying on the usuals.
4. You don't ask questions.
What it means: "I'm not that interested in
your company."
The interview should be a two-way conversation "to
determine if you are the right fit for the company, and if the company is the
right fit for you," Milligan says. Use the interview to gather as much
information about your potential new position as possible.
5. You answer the standard "Tell us about
yourself," with "What would you like to know?"
What it means: "I have nothing special to
offer this company."
This is your opportunity to steer the conversation
into areas where you truly shine. Don't waste this chance by appearing to lack
any outstanding qualities you want to share. And please don't start with where
you were born. Focus on your career unless your birthplace is relevant to the
job.
6. You use inappropriate language.
What it means: "I'm unprofessional and if it
shows in the short span of an interview, imagine what I'll be like in the
office."
Even if they're only mild and somewhat acceptable
words, there still is no place for them in the interview.
7. You trash-talk your former boss.
What it means: "I have no discretion; I'll
blab any inside information."
"If you left your prior job on poor terms, you need
to put this relationship in a positive light for the interview," Milligan
advises. "Even if your boss was to blame." You never want to bring negativity
or antagonistic emotions into the interview. Keep it positive and upbeat.
8. You ask the interviewer to not contact your
former employer.
What it means: "I have something to hide."
Even if you do not get along with your boss, you can
always name someone else in the organization as a reference.
9. You exaggerate your accomplishments or
credentials.
What it means: "I'm not good enough on my own
merits, so I need to lie to make myself look good."
A skilled interviewer can easily identify
fabrications in your background or experience. State your qualifications with
confidence. You don't have to be Superman to get hired; you just have to be
right for the job.
10. You don't thank the interviewer.
What it means: "I have no manners."
Forgetting to thank your interviewers in writing for
their time can take the luster from even the most stellar interviewee.