With so much emphasis on practicing and preparing beforehand for an interview, we try to paint a perfect picture of ourselves during an interview. With loads of advice pouring in from left right and centre, we tend to copy the best and keep rehearsing on them. However, there are certain tips which are outdated, stale or may not be relevant at all. Here are a few examples:
- My greatest weakness is that “I am a perfectionist”.
You think you’re saying : “I am a person with zero weakness”.
The Recruiter is hearing : I will not admit any of my weakness which means I will never improve.
The Truth : Responses like ‘I’m a perfectionist’ or ‘I’m too loyal’ really communicate either a lack of honesty or a lack of self-awareness. The recruiter wants to actually hear your weakness from you when he’s asking this question. He knows you’re not perfect and he knows you’ll make mistakes on the job, what he doesn’t currently know is how you’ll handle those inevitable setbacks—and that matters a lot!
- I will excel in this job because I like working with people.
You think you’re saying : I am the Ultimate Team Player.
The Recruiter is hearing : “I’m Pretty Sure This Is What I’m Supposed to Say”.
The Truth : This is one of the most robotic answers a candidate could provide, it might seem like a friendly answer, it doesn’t actually reveal anything about you as a person or employee. A better approach would be to talk about a team project where you interacted with a diverse group of people—or difficult people. This will have a much bigger impact and make a better impression on the interviewer.
- This is my dream company, I cannot imagine working anywhere else.
You think you’re saying : I really want this job.
The Recruiter is hearing : I did not do any research.
The Truth : Interviewers want to know that they’re not just hiring someone who’s looking for any job, you do eventually have to get into the details.
So, next time when someone advises you these quick one liners, do take it with a pinch of salt. Eventually, it is your personality and skill set which will let you win over recruiters.