Introduction:
When you’re preparing for an interview, working out what you’re going to say is key. Some words are best avoided in an interview, even if they seem positive. Here’s a look at which words and phrases to avoid – and what you should say instead.
Beware of Using Words that Downplay Your Abilities:
If you struggle talking about your skills, you’re not alone. Jobseekers at all levels can feel uneasy talking about themselves in an interview. Avoid words that downplay your accomplishments.
- We – Focus on your individual contributions.
- Just – Avoid minimizing your responsibilities.
- Only – Don’t reinforce limitations.
- Obviously – Don’t assume the interviewer knows something.
Avoid Overused Words:
Some words are used so often during interviews they can irritate the panel. Examples include:
- Workaholic – Focus on time management and achieving results.
- Perfectionist – Talk about setting high standards and recognizing when a task is complete.
Be Wary of Using Terms that You Cannot Back Up:
It’s important to sell yourself and your strengths in an interview, so prepare to back up your claims.
- Resilient/Motivated by a Challenge
- Detail-Oriented
- Team Player
What You Should Say in Your Interview:
Use strong, positive language in your interview. Examples include:
- “I identified”
- “I developed”
- “I proposed”
- “I implemented”
Conclusion
Getting to the interview stage in your job search is an exciting step. Thinking about the words you’ll use to best describe yourself and your skills will boost your confidence. With careful preparation and practice, you can give the interview your best shot.