“How much does this job pay?” Do not ask your possible future employer how much the job pays. Wait until they bring up compensation. Mentioning payment will give the impression that all you care about is money, which is not what you want your first impression to be.
“I hate my job. My boss is an idiot.” While questions may arise about things that you would like to see change at your current job, or why you plan to leave it, do not speak poorly of your current employer. It’s important to have good sportsmanship, and let them know that it just wasn’t a good fit for you. If everything you say is negative, they may think that you were the problem, not your boss.
“I don’t have any weaknesses.” Yes you do. No one is perfect. While everyone hates the dreaded, “Name 3 weaknesses you have,” question, it’s inevitable. Just make sure that they’re realistic, and you’re able to discuss how you’ve overcome those weaknesses – employers want to see that you can articulate your own weaknesses, and have worked towards improving them. Saying that you don’t have any weaknesses just makes you seem cocky.
“How much time off can I get?” Asking this will just make it seem like you don’t want to work, and that all you care about is vacation pay. Wait until you’re employed to discuss this.
“No, I don’t have any questions.” Even if it’s a simple question, ask it. In fact, go in the interview with several non-payment questions to discuss, to help the employer see that you’re really interested in the job. Some good questions include, “what are some of the challenges you’ve faced while at this company,” and “What do you enjoy most about working here?”
“What does your company do?” Asking this will probably cut the interview short. Make sure to research anything you can about the company, not only so that you don’t sound incompetent, but also because you, personally, should know what kind of company you will be working for.
“I don’t know.” When given hypothetical situations, answer it to the best of your ability. Allow the interviewer to see your thought process, rather than just give up on the spot. This will not make a good impression.
“I’m sorry, I’m just really nervous!” Do not use nervousness as an excuse. The interviewers already know this, and want to see that despite the nerves and pressure, you can still conduct yourself in a confident, professional manner.
“I just want this job to help me ___” Employers want to know what you can do to benefit the company, not the other way around. Obviously you need employment, they are aware of this. Just make sure you aren’t giving the impression that you’re using them for a temporary position for better employment.
“I’m sorry I was late.” Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early, to avoid traffic and weather delays. Being late on an interview is the worst first impression, and will probably have you looking for employment elsewhere.
