What Not To Say At An Interview (And What To Say Instead)

Ever been to an interview and blanked out, became so nervous you either said something really embarassing or froze up? Well, same here! It happens to most of us, and that's okay it is part of a learning process. We are here to make your learning process easier by sharing with you what NOT to say in an interview, and what you should actually say!

1. Answering non-professionally

Whenever you go to an interview, 99% of the time they will ask you to tell them something about yourself. This is where you sell yourself, and talk about your passions and hobbies, show them that you are a wonderful addition to the company. Do NOT talk about random topics and go off on a tangent about your cats, or your favourite colors etc, UNLESS, it serves the purpose. Like saying you love your cats, and you are great at taking care of them, it gives you a sense of responsibility which you enjoy. Things like that lah, pandai2 sikit.

2. Talking about personal and non-work related things.

Another thing an interviewer loves asking is what are your weaknesses. If you don’t want the job then go ahead and answer that icecream and girls/boys are your weakness. If you want the job, then answer truthfully but in a professional way. To be honest, you can go with any weakness if you can justify it professionally. Eg, “I have a weakness to icecream, I fall to temptation too easily, especially when I know the outcome would be good. It goes the same with my work as well.” That kind of thing. It all boils down to how you word and rephrase it. But if you want to be on the safe side, you can always give that generic “I am a perfectionist.” answer, but they probably already damn sien of hearing the same thing over and over. Be creative, be you.

3. Not highlighting your expertise and value.

The main goal in the interview, is to see if you are the right person for the position and company culture. Sell your good points, and show them what an amazing person you are and how it would be a loss to NOT hire you! If your answers are bland and doesn’t show your personality or your expertise, they WILL NOT see your value. Sell yourself like a car salesman sells an expensive car! Show them you are responsible, driven, motivated and a fun person to be around. Believe in yourself, you can do it, you beautiful, smart and talented person!!

4. Not talking enough about your soft skills.

When you are asked about your strengths, think of the things you do that make you unique, and explain why it is a benefit to the company. Anything can be a soft skill if you find the benefit to it. Like playing an instrument, say that, and show that it helps you be able to multitask and are creative. Like to gym? Great! Let them know it shows your dedication to yourself and that you can do anything if you set your mind to it. What about gaming? It shows your ability to focus on detail and have great mental processing skills! The key is to be able to show your soft skills and abilities through your actions!

5. Asking redundant questions.

Before your interview, always do your research on the company and the culture. Have some basic questions in mind prepared. This gives you a general idea of your role and your environment, and it shows the interviewer you are keen. Ask anything and everything you want to know more of to have a firm understanding, as long as the questions are not too dumb. 

So there you have it, keep these tips in mind and you will greatly increase your chances of getting hired after your next interview. Remember, be classy, be funny and most importantly, be you.