What not to say at an interview. 10 phrases that an engineer says you should avoid

What phrases should not be said at an interview, according to Diana Voloshyna, and what to say instead.

1. «I have no questions»

• Why: Signals a lack of preparation and interest.
• Instead: Ask about the team’s current projects or the company culture.

2. «I’m ready for any job now»

• Why: Looks like desperation, lowers your negotiating position.
• Instead: Highlight your skills that are relevant to this role.

3. «I don’t like being told what to do.»

• Why: You seem unmanageable.
• Instead: Tell us how you grew from feedback.

4. «I have no weaknesses»

• Why: It sounds either like a lie or arrogance.
• Instead: Name a real weakness and tell us how you are working on it.

5. «I hate my current boss»

• Why: It calls into question your professionalism.
• Instead: Focus on your career goals and desire to grow.

6. «I’ll figure it out on the go»

• Why: It looks like you’re not preparing.
• Instead: Emphasize your ability to learn quickly (and give examples).

7. «This job is just a springboard for me»

• Why: Companies don’t want to invest in temporary employees.
• Instead: Explain how you see your future with this company.

8. «What are your conditions for remote work?» (at the beginning of the conversation)

• Why: It seems like you’re only interested in flexibility, not the job itself.
• Instead: First, discuss the role and get the employer interested in you.

9. «What time does everyone usually go home?»

• Why: It suggests that you are more concerned about the end of the workday than the responsibilities themselves.
• Instead: Ask about typical workflows and tasks.

10. «I don’t handle stress well.»

• Why: It may give the impression that you can’t handle the load.
• Instead: Tell us how you organize your work to meet deadlines.

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