14 things to NEVER say at a Job Interview

February 26, 2025

NEVER ever repeat these phrases in a job interview:

1. “What does this company do?”

↳ Research first.

↳ Curiosity is good, but ignorance isn’t.

2. “I just really need a job.”

↳ They want to know why this job matters to you.

↳ Desperation isn’t a selling point.

3. “Sorry, I’m late.”

↳ First impressions matter.

↳ Be early, not just “on time.”

4. “My last boss was terrible.”

↳ Even if it’s true—stay professional.

↳ Talk about what you learned, not what you hated.

5. “What’s the salary?” (too early)

↳ Timing matters.

↳ Let them see your value first.

6. “I don’t have any weaknesses.”

↳ Nobody believes that.

↳ Show self-awareness, not perfection.

7. “I don’t have experience, but…”

↳ Reframe it.

↳ Talk about transferable skills.

8. “I hated my last job.”

↳ No negativity.

↳ Speak about what you’re moving toward, not away from.

9. “No, I don’t have any questions.”

↳ Bad sign.

↳ Always have at least one.

10. “What’s your policy on social media at work?”

↳ Red flag.

↳ Focus on impact, not distractions.

11. “I just need benefits.”

↳ They’re hiring a person, not a list of demands.

↳ Talk about contribution, not just compensation.

12. “I don’t like working in teams.”

↳ Collaboration matters.

↳ Even for independent roles.

13. “I don’t know much about this industry.”

↳ If true, show eagerness to learn.

↳ Effort beats ignorance.

14. “I left my last job because I didn’t like the people.”

↳ Culture fit is key.

↳ But focus on growth, not complaints.

15. “So… did I get the job?”

↳ Confidence is great.

↳ But let the process unfold.

The best interviews feel like conversations.

And the best candidates know what NOT to say.

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