7 Things You Should Say in an Interview

The job market is competitive. You must communicate your skill set effectively to gain the best competitive advantage for landing the job. During the interview process, highlight as many strengths as possible. Here are seven things you should say in an interview.

Key Takeaways

• Highlight your strengths in a job interview.
• Research the company and know its products and services.
• Flexibility, energy, and optimism are all highly desirable qualities.
• Communicate your interest, experience, and goals effectively.

1. I Am Very Familiar With What Your Company Does

Letting a prospective employer know you are familiar with what a company does shows that you have a legitimate interest in the business and are not wasting their time. Do your homework before arriving for an interview. Check out the company website for information about products and services. Search for the latest transactions and pertinent business news.

2. I Am Flexible

Work environments are always changing. Prospective employers look for candidates who are open to change, adaptable, and who can multitask. Flexibility means you will do what is necessary to finish a task, including working additional hours or taking on additional job duties.

3. I Am Energetic and Have a Positive Attitude

Employers look for candidates with optimism and a “can-do” attitude. Attitudes are contagious and directly affect company morale. Let the optimist in you shine during the interview process. Be sure to always speak positively about past employers. Negative comments and sarcastic statements about past employers and co-workers are unnecessary.

4. I Have a Great Deal of Experience

Highlight any previous job duties that relate directly to your new job. If it is a management position, state every time you were responsible for supervising, training, and developing other employees. Discuss your motivational techniques and share specific examples of how you increased productivity. Feel free to list any training classes or seminars that you have attended.

5. I Am a Team Player

Companies are looking for team players, employees who are cooperative and get along well with other employees. Let your prospective employer know that you can flourish in group situations. Employers expect workers to be productive with limited supervision.

6. I Am Seeking to Become an Expert in My Field

Employers appreciate applicants increasing their knowledge base to make themselves the best employees possible. Stating that you aim to become an expert makes employers view you as an asset. You are a resource that other employees can learn from and you are invested in the long run.

7. I Am Highly Motivated

A motivated employee is a productive employee. Talk about how your level of motivation has led you to accomplish many things. If you are a meticulous worker, discuss your organizational skills and attention to detail. Companies are always looking for dependable employees whom they can count on.

Interview Question Examples

According to the Harvard Business Review, the following questions are common ones you should be prepared to answer at a job interview:

• Could you tell me about yourself and briefly describe your background?
• How did you hear about the job?
• What kind of work environment do you prefer?
• How do you deal with stress or pressured situations?
• Which do you prefer—working on your own or in a team?
• How do you stay organized when you’re juggling several projects?
• What are your salary expectations?
• Are you applying for other jobs?

What Is Illegal to Ask in a Job Interview?

It is illegal for a job interviewer to ask questions about a job applicant’s race, color, sex, age, national origin, or religion. These personal characteristics are all protected by law.

How Long Do Employers Take To Make an Offer After an Interview?

According to LinkedIn, interviewed candidates may wait 1-2 weeks or longer for an offer.

How Are Interviews Commonly Conducted?

Candidates may be invited to interview virtually, in person, one-on-one with one manager, or with a panel of company representatives who all have input and questions. Large companies may have candidates move through a multiple-interview process.

The Bottom Line

Remember that a job interview is an opportunity to sell yourself to a prospective employer. Use the right phrases to give you the best chance of securing your dream job.