The Worst Answers You Can Give in a Job Interview

Job interviews are a crucial part of the recruitment process, and the slightest misstep can jeopardize your chances of landing a position. While there is no one size fits all answer to question, there are several responses that can potentially harm your prospects and cost you the job. Here, we will explore these worst answers and why they can be detrimental.

1. Weighing In on Unrelated Departments

Imagine a situation where a classmate of yours was asked during a campus interview, 'You are interested in which department?' and perplexingly chose the Human Resource (HR) department among the given options: Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Design. The interviewer's reaction was harsh: 'Get out. Don’t waste my time, and I can’t entertain candidates like you.' This incident highlights the consequences of providing an off-topic or nonsensical answer in a job interview. When an employer provides a list of options and you choose an irrelevant one, it suggests a lack of focus and exacerbated by an inability to follow directions. Employers value candidates who can remain on task and demonstrate clear communication skills.

2. Venting on Previous Employers

During a difficult interview experience, a candidate expressed their dissatisfaction with a previous employer. The interview commenced with snide and aggressive comments from a panel member and this candidate decided to confront them, stating their feelings about the prejudice encountered. While venting on past employers may seem cathartic, it often reflects negatively on your temperament and professionalism. Employers want to hire individuals who can communicate effectively and remain respectful, even when facing adversity.

3. Addressing Physical or Mental Ailments

Discussing physical or mental health issues during a job interview can be a red flag for employers. It might make them question your reliability, willingness to disclose health information, and overall suitability for the role. For instance, a candidate answering 'Tell me about yourself,' with a statement, 'I have a mental health issue,' could be a way to introduce concerns about your stability in the workplace. Such answers might deter an employer, especially in roles that require consistent performance and client interaction.

4. Lack of Relevance in Your Response

One of the most common and avoidable mistakes is to give an answer that is not relevant to the job or the question asked. For example, supposing a candidate was asked, 'Tell me about yourself,' but instead responds with, 'I really like to play the guitar on weekends,' which has no bearing on the job at hand. This lack of focus can signal to the interviewer that the candidate is unprepared and does not prioritize the needs of the organization. Instead, prepare specific responses highlighting your skills, experiences, and qualifications that are directly relevant to the position.

5. Misunderstanding the Question

When a candidate does not understand the question asked, it can indicate a lack of attentiveness and preparedness. For instance, if the interviewer restates a question as 'Why should I consider you for employment,' and the candidate responds with a vague or irrelevant answer, it might suggest that they are not listening carefully. It is crucial to carefully consider each question and provide a coherent, direct response.

By steering clear of the worst possible answers, job-seekers can present themselves in the best possible light and increase their chances of securing the position. Effective communication, professionalism, and relevance are key elements that can set candidates apart in a competitive job market.