Career Corner
Job interview: 5 taboo topics to avoid telling the truth
When it comes to job interviews, it’s natural to want to put your best foot forward and present yourself in the best possible light. However, there are some topics that you might want to consider avoiding telling the whole truth about. Here are five topics that you might want to consider being less than truthful about during a job interview:
- Your salary history – When an employer asks you about your salary history, they’re really trying to figure out what you’re willing to accept for the position they’re hiring for. If you’re underpaid in your current role, telling the truth about your salary history could hurt your chances of getting a better offer. You might want to consider either deflecting the question or giving a vague answer like “I’m open to negotiation.”
- Your weaknesses – It’s common for interviewers to ask about your weaknesses, but answering this question truthfully could give the interviewer a reason to doubt your ability to do the job. Instead, consider turning the question around and talking about how you’re working to improve in that area, or highlighting a strength that could compensate for the weakness.
- Your reasons for leaving your previous job – If you left your previous job because of a personality conflict with your boss, telling the interviewer that could make you appear difficult to work with. Instead, focus on the positive reasons why you’re interested in the new position.
- Your availability – If you have personal commitments or obligations that might interfere with the job, it’s best to keep that to yourself during the interview. Saying that you’re available at all times could give the interviewer the impression that you don’t have a life outside of work, which could be a red flag.
- Your interest in the company – You might not be genuinely excited about the company you’re interviewing with, but telling the interviewer that could hurt your chances of getting the job. Instead, focus on the specific aspects of the company that interest you and how they align with your career goals.
Of course, it’s important to note that lying outright during a job interview is never a good idea. It’s always better to focus on your strengths and what you can bring to the position rather than trying to conceal any weaknesses or negative aspects of your job history.
In addition to the above topics, there are other areas where you might want to consider being strategic with your answers. For example, if you’re asked about your long-term career goals, it’s okay to have some uncertainty about what you want to do in the future, but it’s important to show that you’re committed to growing in your role and that you’re open to new opportunities.
Similarly, if you’re asked about your experience with a particular tool or software, it’s okay to admit that you don’t have a lot of experience with it, but you should be able to show that you’re a quick learner and are willing to take the time to get up to speed.
In conclusion, being strategic with your answers during a job interview can help you present yourself in the best possible light and increase your chances of getting the job. However, it’s important to remember that lying outright is never a good idea, and focusing on your strengths and what you can bring to the position is always the best approach. By being prepared and strategic, you can put your best foot forward during the interview process and potentially land the job of your dreams.
