The Worst Clichés to Avoid on Your Next Interview

The interview is your one opportunity to demonstrate to a potential employer how your unique set of skills will help to solve any deficiencies they may have.

So why on earth would you waste those precious minutes with canned comments or clichés?

Interviews are difficult, and I don’t think anyone really enjoys them, but it’s kind of necessary when you need a job.  Just like public speaking you may get nervous or draw a blank.  At which time you go to your standby responses or the first thing that comes to mind.  Here are a few clichés to be aware of, and some alternate ways to respond:

I’m a Team Player

This ladies and gentleman is the ultimate cliché.  By this point you should be a team player.  No one lasts long at any job if you’re not.  If you truly are a team player, don’t just say it, prove it. Explain what it is that makes you so great to work with. Give examples of  an instance where you’ve helped a fellow teammate or where your persuasion helped to save a client.

I’m The Perfect Fit

This isn’t for you to decide.  They’ll be the judge of that.  Instead of telling them you’re the perfect fit, build a story around your experiences.  Tailor your story to the needs of the company and the position they are recruiting for.

I’m a Hard Worker

And so are the other 10 people they plan to interview after you.  Without the interviewer really knowing you, these are just empty words.  Tell them about all those times when you stayed late, turned work in before it was due, anticipated what needed to get done next or any other time you went above and beyond the call of duty.

I’m Willing To Do Anything

This is a very slippery slope, because those words could come back to bite you.  This cliché is more common in entry-level or ground floor positions.  If you run off  a list of things that you ‘re willing to do and then some, you better be ready to put your name by each and every one of those things.

It’s great to show excitement and enthusiasm. However, you don’t want to come across as too eager to get any job.  They will pass on you in a heartbeat. Mention specific parts of the job that excite you, and instead of focusing on your willingness to do anything, focus on your desire to do these specific things.