Never Tell These Lies During an Interview

During the job search process, candidates sometimes over-inflate personal skills and experience to appear more desirable to potential employers. However, the temptation to exaggerate to get your foot in the door can backfire. Convey your qualifications honestly and accurately by avoiding these common interview mistakes that can come back to haunt you.

"Yes, I Have Experience With XYZ."

Employers are seeking candidates with experience in software and hardware programs and equipment commonly used in the industry, but they are also seeking applicants willing to learn. Avoid one of the most common interview mistakes job seekers make. Instead of misleading the hiring manager, be honest about your experience, yet show that you are eager to improve your skills and learn quickly to gain this experience. If you lie about your experience and cannot fulfill the duties of the job once hired, you risk damaging your credibility and negatively impacting the company's productivity and profitability. These types of interview mistakes may even lead you to unemployment when employers realize the truth.

"I Don't Have Any Weaknesses."

Making overly boastful statements and being dishonest in an attempt to hide all faults are major interview mistakes. Everyone is guilty of possessing a few weaknesses on and of the job, and employers do not expect you to be absolutely perfect. Inventory your job skills and personality traits to identify areas where you need improvement. For example, instead of claiming to be without fault or labeling yourself as a perfectionist, communicate skills that you are actively working on such as working better with teams or listening thoroughly before rushing into a project. It's okay to let hiring managers know that you are imperfect. Employers want to see that you have the drive and passion to become a better person as part of their company.

"It Was Just My Time to Leave."

Resist the temptation to make vague claims when explaining why you left your previous job. Doing so may even leave doubt in the potential employer's mind about whether or not you left a previous position on bad terms. To avoid interview mistakes, be honest about why you are in the midst of a job search. While this should not prompt you to talk negatively about previous employers, you can note that you did not see room for advancement in your previous position or decided that you would prefer to work for a company that has goals similar to your own.

Communicate your skills and experience honestly during interviews to increase your chances of employment. Hiring managers can easily spot interview mistakes and detect when candidates are stretching the truth. Turn your weaknesses into positives by showing your willingness to learn and make an impact as a future employee.

Photo Courtesy of becris at FreeDigitalPhotos.net