What You Should Never Mention in an Interview

If you have a job interview coming up, now is the perfect time to start preparing for it. When you get to the end of the interview, they will most likely ask if you have any questions. Now if your invitation to talk about any questions or concerns you have, and you are encouraged to ask insightful questions. However, there are some things you should never ask or bring up during the interview, such as the following.

People You Didn’t Get Along With

The first thing you shouldn’t mention when you have a job interview is bringing up issues with people you used to work with, especially your past supervisor. You may be holding a grudge against a past boss you felt treated you unfairly, but this is the last thing to mention to the person interviewing you for a job. Only focus on the positives about your job, co-workers and supervisor, avoiding negativity or aggression.

Being Nervous for the Interview

The interviewer already knows you are probably nervous for your interview, as most people are during job interviews. Mentioning it is unnecessary, and can cause some friction between you and the person interviewing you. Try to push your nerves aside and remind yourself why you are a great fit for the job. This is a great way to appear more confident and fully prepared for the interview.

Holidays and Other Benefits

While many people bring up the topic of benefits if the interviewer has not offered up the information on their own, some types of benefits shouldn’t be asked about, including holidays. Refrain from asking information about paid days off, holidays, and similar types of benefits. It gives a bad impression that you are concerned already about taking time off, and they assume you are someone that tends to need a lot of time off. It can really hurt your chances in getting the job.

Pay

In most cases, this won’t be an issue as the interviewer will let you know about pay. While you do want to know about pay before agreeing to a job, it is best not to bring up on your own during the interview. If the interviewer does not bring it up themselves, broach the topic very carefully. If you know the company holds second and third interviews before making hiring decisions, avoid asking until the last interview if they have not yet mentioned it.

Advancement

Lastly, avoid asking about advancement or promotions within the company. You want to show you are interested in the company and will be there a long time, but in the job you are applying for. If they bring up possible progression through the company, that’s fine, but don’t ask how far you can advance in the company.