What are the most important things to avoid when answering interview questions?

1 Being vague or general

One of the worst things you can do when answering interview questions is to be vague or general, as this shows a lack of confidence, clarity, and specificity. Employers want to hear concrete examples and details that demonstrate your skills, achievements, and fit for the role. For instance, if you are asked about your strengths, don't just say "I'm a good communicator" or "I'm a team player". Instead, give a specific situation where you used your communication or teamwork skills to achieve a positive outcome. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and provide relevant and quantifiable evidence of your value.

3 Giving irrelevant or personal information

A third thing that you should avoid when answering interview questions is giving irrelevant or personal information, as this shows a lack of focus, relevance, and judgment. Employers want to hear about your professional qualifications, skills, and goals, not your personal life, hobbies, or opinions. For instance, if you are asked about your hobbies, don't go into a long and detailed description of your favorite movies, books, or music. Instead, briefly mention one or two hobbies that relate to the job or the company culture, such as reading industry blogs, volunteering for a cause, or learning a new language. Similarly, avoid sharing information that is too personal, such as your marital status, health issues, political views, or religious beliefs, unless they are directly relevant to the job or the employer.

5 Lying or exaggerating

A fifth thing that you should avoid when answering interview questions is lying or exaggerating, as this shows a lack of honesty, integrity, and credibility. Employers want to hire people who are trustworthy, reliable, and authentic, not people who are dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent. Therefore, you should never lie or exaggerate about your skills, experience, education, or achievements, as this can backfire and damage your reputation. Instead, be truthful and realistic about what you can offer, what you have done, and what you want to do. If you don't know the answer to a question, don't make it up or pretend that you do. Instead, admit that you don't know, but show that you are willing to learn, research, or find out.

6 Showing no enthusiasm or interest

A sixth thing that you should avoid when answering interview questions is showing no enthusiasm or interest, as this shows a lack of motivation, passion, and fit. Employers want to hire people who are excited, curious, and eager to work for them, not people who are bored, indifferent, or apathetic. Therefore, you should express your enthusiasm and interest in the job, the company, and the industry, by using positive and energetic language, tone, and body language. For instance, use words like "I love", "I enjoy", or "I'm passionate about" to describe your skills, goals, or values. Use a confident and friendly tone of voice, smile, and make eye contact to convey your personality and attitude. Use open and relaxed body language, such as leaning forward, nodding, and gesturing, to show your involvement and confidence.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?