An executive recruiter with more than 25 years in the business has warned of nine phrases that hopeful job applicants should never say in an interview.
Deepali Vyas, a recruiter and the CEO and founder of ProFolios AI, took to Instagram to share her tips as she pointed out that 'words have power in interviews'.
The recruiter noted that it's not all about 'what you say' when you're trying to impress an employer, but also 'how you say it'. You don't want to come across as arrogant, but you do want to be confident.
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Vyas also encouraged drawing focus to 'challenges' that you have solved, and turning 'weaknesses into growth moments'.
"The right words show not just what you’ve done but who you are," she wrote, alongside her top tips of what 'not' to say.
"I'm excellent at networking"
This phrase might sound like a great option for a role that requires making connections, but it risks stepping over the line into the 'arrogance' that Vyas warned against.
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Instead, she recommended being more specific by saying: "I successfully establish and nurture business relationships."
"I am versatile"
Great, but also quite vague - this doesn't do much to show the employer 'who you are'.
Instead, Vyas recommended: "I adapt to new situations fast and like change."
"I'm good with technology"
This is a win in a lot of tech-focused businesses, but in a world where so much of our daily lives rely on having some understanding of devices, it would probably be more surprising if you weren't good with technology.
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Instead, Vyas suggested demonstrating how you utilize technology, saying: "I use the newest technology to increase my productivity."
"I pay close attention to detail"
This is a strength, but Vyas also encouraged the highlighting of 'growth moments'.
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She suggested: "I carefully review my work to make sure it is accurate and of high quality."
"I can follow instructions well"
While any employer wants to know their employees are willing to follow advice and management, Vyas again recommended being more specific as she suggested: "I see to it that assignments are finished according to the guidelines."
"I am required"
Very self-assured, but again at risk of being arrogant. Instead of this bold phrase, Vyas suggested highlighting your drive by saying: "My constant goal is to go above and beyond expectations."
"I work with a strong ethic"
Similar to following instructions, it's great to hear that potential employees are committed. However, Vyas urges people to make their comments more personable and show off more specific strengths.
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Instead, she recommended: "I manage my time well to take care of a variety of obligations."
"I have perfect time management"
Must be nice - but can you manage time when you're working as part of a team? To highlight this, Vyas recommended swapping this phrase for: "I have effectively guided teams to accomplish project objectives."
Emily Brown