What not to say in an interview and what to say instead
A single careless phrase can distract from your strengths or leave the wrong impression during a job interview. This guide highlights what not to say in an interview and how to avoid these common mistakes.
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21 things to avoid saying in a job interview
Preparing what to say in an interview is only part of the equation. Just as important is recognising what not to say in an interview, as some phrases can quietly weaken your message or shift the focus away from your qualifications. A thoughtful approach to your wording helps you come across as composed, professional, and fully engaged with the opportunity.
Below, I’ll outline common phrases and habits to avoid – along with stronger alternatives – to help you deliver the best possible performance.
“I didn’t have time to prepare.”
Even if the interview is last-minute, telling the interviewer you’re unprepared instantly weakens your professional image. It suggests a lack of organisation and interest, and it prevents you from showing enthusiasm for the role. Interviews are your chance to shine – so don’t start by admitting you haven’t done your homework.
What to say instead:
“I’m looking forward to learning more about the role and discussing how my experience aligns with your needs.”“I’ll do whatever / anything!”
This phrase makes you sound unfocused and suggests you’re indifferent to the role rather than genuinely motivated by it. Employers want candidates who can articulate their strengths and aspirations, not someone who appears to be job-hunting out of desperation. Being vague about what you want can dilute your professional identity and make it harder for employers to see where you fit.
What to say instead:
“I’m particularly interested in this position because…”
Explain how the role aligns with your professional skills, interests or long-term goals.“My last company/boss was terrible.”
Speaking negatively about former employers instantly raises concerns about your professionalism and is definitely among the top 5 things you should never say in a job interview. Even if you had legitimate challenges, criticising past colleagues can make you appear difficult or uncooperative. Employers want to hire positive, solution-focused people who handle conflict constructively.
What to say instead:
“I appreciated aspects of my previous role, but I’m now seeking opportunities that better align with my strengths and future growth.”Fillers like “umm”, “err”, “like…”
Filler words slip into normal conversation easily, but when they dominate an interview answer, they can make you appear unsure or unprepared. Even highly skilled candidates risk sounding hesitant when their speech is punctuated by pauses and verbal crutches. Control your pace, allow yourself to pause silently, and speak only when you’ve gathered your thoughts.
What to do instead:
If you need a moment, say, “That’s a great question – let me think for a second.”“Just…”
Downplaying your achievements with words like “just” weakens your answers and minimises your experience. It can make even impressive contributions sound small or unimportant. Confident communication doesn’t require arrogance – simply state your accomplishments clearly and without apology.
What to say instead:
“I left my last role due to limited opportunities for progression,” rather than, “I just left because of…”“I’m really nervous.”
It’s natural to feel anxious, but highlighting your nerves can give the impression that you lack confidence or composure. Interviews are challenging environments, and employers look for candidates who can remain steady under pressure. Instead of admitting nerves, channel your energy into appearing calm, positive and engaged.
What to do instead:
Take slow breaths, focus on speaking clearly, and practise grounding techniques before entering the room.“I know I don’t have much experience, but…”
Drawing attention to what you lack can overshadow the strengths you do bring. Employers expect applicants to be confident in their potential. Instead of apologising for gaps, focus on transferable skills, relevant achievements and your motivation to learn quickly.
What to do instead:
Emphasise your enthusiasm, adaptability, and the experience you do have that connects to the role.“It’s on my CV.”
If an interviewer asks you about something already listed, they’re looking for context, clarity and real-world examples. Responding with “It’s on my CV” can come across as dismissive and uncooperative. Interviews are your opportunity to expand on your achievements – not direct someone back to a document.
What to say instead:
“Yes, that’s something I enjoyed working on – let me tell you more about that project.”“I don’t know.”
Even the best-prepared candidates occasionally face unexpected questions. But bluntly saying “I don’t know” suggests a lack of initiative. Interviewers want to see how you think, solve problems or adapt under pressure.
What to do instead:
Ask for clarification or take a moment to reflect:
“Let me consider that for a second – I want to give you a thoughtful answer.”“I don’t have any weaknesses.”
Claiming to be flawless can come across as unrealistic or lacking self-awareness. Employers prefer candidates who recognise their development areas and take active steps to improve.
What to say instead:
Choose a genuine weakness and explain how you’re addressing it.“Can you explain what your company does?”
Arriving without basic company knowledge signals poor preparation and low interest. Employers expect you to know their mission, services and values before you walk through the door.
What to say instead:
“I’ve researched your recent projects and was particularly interested in…”
Then ask a thoughtful follow-up question.Asking about salary, perks or holidays too early
Asking the recruiter questions about pay and benefits is valid, but asking them prematurely can make it seem as though you’re more interested in entitlements than in contributing to the role. Early-stage interviews are about showing your fit, not negotiating terms.
What to do instead:
Wait until the employer raises the topic or until a later stage of the process.“I need my schedule to be…”
Interviewers look for flexibility, especially during early conversations. Setting conditions or constraints too soon can come across as demanding, even if your preferences are reasonable.
What to say instead:
“I’m generally flexible – could you tell me more about the typical working pattern for this role?”Using slang, swearing or overly casual language
Expressions like “cool,” “OMG,” or casual swearing can undermine your professionalism. Even if the interviewer seems relaxed, remember that an interview is still a formal assessment.
What to say instead:
Use clear, neutral and professional language throughout.Sounding over-rehearsed or reading from notes
Preparation is essential, but sounding scripted can make you appear detached or robotic. Interviewers want a natural, two-way conversation – not memorised monologues.
What to do instead:
Practise your key points, but speak spontaneously in the interview to maintain authenticity.Ending answers with uncertainty (“…so, yeah.”)
Finishing answers abruptly or awkwardly can weaken an otherwise strong response. It signals a lack of confidence or clarity.
What to do instead:
Conclude with purpose:
“…and that experience taught me how to manage high-pressure situations effectively.”Sharing inappropriate personal stories or too much information
Oversharing can make you appear unprofessional or distract from your suitability for the role. Keep your examples relevant, concise and connected to the employer’s needs.
What to do instead:
Use structured, work-related examples that highlight your strengths.“What’s in it for me?”
Questions that focus solely on perks, promotions or personal gain can make you seem self-centred and are definitely one of the things to avoid saying in a job interview. Remember: employers want to understand how you can contribute before discussing what the role can provide in return.
What to do instead:
Ask questions about success criteria, team goals or development opportunities.“Do you want to see my references?”
Offering references too early can seem premature. Employers request them when they’re ready – typically near the final stages.
What to do instead:
Keep a reference list prepared, but only provide it when asked.Corporate jargon or buzzwords
Using exaggerated business-speak (“synergy,” “strategic alignment,” “leveraging core competencies”) can sound unnatural or insincere. Clear language is far more impactful and relatable.
What to say instead:
Be direct and plain-speaking:
“I collaborated with different teams to deliver a successful outcome.”Inappropriate humour
Even well-intended jokes can cause misunderstandings in a professional setting. Humour is subjective, and something light-hearted to you might not land well with the interviewer.
What to do instead:
Stay friendly, warm and professional – but avoid jokes.
Final thoughts: Keep it positive, professional and purposeful
Understanding what not to say in a job interview empowers you to communicate confidently and clearly. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll highlight your strengths, show genuine interest in the role and leave a strong, lasting impression.
Thank you for reading my article on what not to say in a job interview. If you’re looking for more actionable tips on various job search and career-related topics, head over to our blog.
Danuta Detyna
Senior Content Writer
Danuta is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer and career expert known for her empathetic, research-driven approach to career development. With over nine years of experience as a professional writer, she specialises in creating effective CVs, cover letters, and career advice articles that empower individuals to pursue their goals with confidence.
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