A job interview can be both exciting and terrifying. If you’re not a practiced public speaker, it can be easy to fall into familiar but unprofessional speech patterns. Or you might freeze up and start speaking in a stilted way. Take a deep breath and try to relax, and be sure not to use these 10 common words.
Independent
Independence can be an excellent trait. But most workplaces are team-oriented, and describing yourself as independent could make the interviewer worry that you aren’t a team player.
Intelligent
Intelligence is a great thing to have, but you need to demonstrate it rather than simply saying it. Alternatives such as “analytical” or “problem-solver” help the interviewer understand how you think without coming across as arrogant.
Obsessive
You might use this word to mean “detail-oriented” or “persistent.” But the interviewer might start worrying about your mental health. Choose precise language that focuses on how you do your work.
Hate
You don’t want to come across as negative, and this is one of the strongest negative words of all. It’s fine to “dislike” something, though even that word should be used sparingly. Whenever possible, keep things positive.
Learn
Everyone wants to learn and grow in a new role. But be careful not to imply that you want to learn how to do the job. Employers are looking for new hires who have something unique to offer, not those who have no idea what they’re doing.
Amazing
This is an empty word that ultimately means nothing. What was so amazing? Give details about the scenario and let the interviewer decide whether or not it was truly amazing.
Um
Fillers are among the most common words, but they only make you sound like you lack confidence or are stalling for time. Take a deep breath and spit out what you have to say, rather than relying on conversational fillers.
Need
You don’t “need” the job, and the employer doesn’t “need” you. You might be excited about the opportunity, and you might feel like you have something valuable to offer. But “need” implies desperation, which is not a good look during a job interview.
Perfect
Likewise, you are not “perfect” for the role, and the company is not “perfect” for you. Talk about specific ways that you can add value.
Kinda
Don’t be wishy washy. Choose language that sounds confident (but not arrogant) rather than trying to hedge.
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