What To Say at An Interview? (12 Things You Need to Know)

Landing job interviews is no easy task. First, you must make the perfect resume, send dozens of applications, and pray to get a callback. And then comes the even more challenging part: what do you say when you’re in the room? It can be nerve-wracking to try and figure out what the interviewer wants to hear from a job seeker. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!

This blog post will walk you through everything you need to know about what to say at an interview. We’ll give you tips on how to answer common questions, as well as how to make a good impression on your interviewer. So read on for all the advice job seekers need to nail your next job interview!

12 Things to always say at an interview

You can say a few things at the beginning, during, and end of your interview to set the tone and make a good impression. Introducing yourself is more than just saying your name; it’s about making a good first impression. When you meet someone new, they form an opinion of you within seconds.

That’s why it’s crucial to ensure you send the right message when you meet someone for the first time, whether a potential employer, client or business partner. First impressions are made up of many factors, from your appearance to your body language to how you speak.

1. It’s pleasant to meet you

Greeting your interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake is always a good start. Introducing yourself politely and making eye contact also conveys confidence and professionalism. Additionally, try to avoid fidgeting or appearing nervous. Taking a few deep breaths before the interview can help you stay calm and focused.

2. I’m an expert in what your firm does

It is always a good idea to research a company before an interview. This way, you can ask informed questions and show genuine interest in the business. Checking out the company website is a great place to start. Many businesses list their products and services and recent news items.

This can give you a good idea of the company and whether your skills would be a good fit. Searching for recent transactions and business news is also a good idea. For example, if the company has just acquired another business, it would be good to mention this during the interview and explain how your skills could help with the transition.

Showing you are up-to-date on the latest news shows that you are invested in the company and are not just looking for any particular job.

3. Thank you for meeting with me today

It would be best if you always thank your interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. Not only is it polite, but it also shows that you are appreciative of their time. This can be especially important if you are interviewing a busy executive or someone with many demands on their time.

By thanking them, you show that you understand and respect their time constraints. Additionally, thanking your interviewer conveys a sense of humility and gratitude, two qualities that are highly valued in most workplaces.

4. I’m excited to learn more about the role

An interview is not just a chance for you to sell yourself to a hiring manager. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about the company and the position you are applying for. Your interview will show your interest in the business and the role.

Asking questions about the company culture, the team you would be working with, and the challenges you would be facing in the role shows that you are excited about the opportunity and are looking to learn more. This can give you a leg up over other candidates who may not have taken the time to ask these types of questions.

5. I am flexible

In today’s job market, hiring managers are looking for flexible candidates who can adapt to change. With the rapid pace of technology and the ever-changing business landscape, companies need employees who can roll with the punches and adjust to new situations.

If you have experience working in a fast-paced environment or have had to deal with change in your previous roles, be sure to mention this during the interview. This will show the employer that you are someone who can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

6. Explain how you will add value

When you are asked about your experience or qualifications, always try to explain how you will add value to the company. For example, if you are applying for a sales position, don’t just discuss your previous sales figures. Instead, focus on how your skills and experience can help the company increase its revenue.

If you are interviewing for a customer service position, don’t just discuss the number of calls you’ve handled in the past. Instead, focus on how your excellent customer service skills will help the company keep its customers happy and loyal.

Focusing on how you will add value to the company shows that you are thinking about what’s best for the business, not just yourself. Additionally, you can also say that you could learn job duties quickly. This can be a crucial differentiator in the hiring process.

7 . This job sounds interesting

Always try to sound excited about the opportunity when asked why you are interested in the job. This shows that you have researched and are genuinely interested in the company and the position.

You can mention something specific that caught your attention, such as the company’s recent growth or a new project they are working on. By expressing your genuine interest in the role, you are more likely to stand out from other candidates who may have just applied because they need a job.

Additionally, sounding interested shows that you are looking for a long-term opportunity, not just a short-term gig. This can be important for employers looking to build a team of committed and engaged employees.

8. The job description aligns perfectly with my qualifications

Job descriptions are often full of qualifications, responsibilities, and required skills. Sifting through them can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that the job description is meant to guide you and the employer.

Remember how your qualifications align with the listed requirements when reading through a job description. If you have most or all of the qualifications listed in the job description, point that out to your potential employer.

Not only will this show that you read and understand the job description, but it will also allow you to share your relevant experience and skills. In addition, highlighting your alignment with the job description shows that you’re a qualified candidate for the position and can help initiate a discussion about your related experience and objectives.

9. I enjoy coming to work every day

While it may seem small, expressing your enthusiasm for the job can go a long way. This is especially true if you’re interviewing for a position that you know will be challenging.

An employer wants to know that you’re not only qualified for the job but that you’ll also be motivated to come to work every day and put in the effort to succeed. If you’re passionate about the work and excited to get started, be sure to share that with your potential employer.

Expressing your interest in the position and discussing your objectives can show an employer that you’re committed to the role and willing to work to achieve success.

10. Tell them a story

Stories are a powerful way to connect with people and build rapport. For example, when interviewing for a job, sharing a relevant story related to your job duties can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and experience.

If you have a story that illustrates your ability to handle difficult situations or solve complex problems, share it with your potential employer. Telling a story about your work can help an employer see your potential and understand how you think and operate.

Stories are also a great way to build rapport with your interviewer. If you can find a way to connect with your interviewer on a personal level, it can make a big difference in the outcome of the interview.

11. What are my next steps?

Once you’ve answered all the questions and shared your relevant stories, you must ask about the next steps. Again, this shows that you’re interested in the position and want to move forward.

Asking about the next steps can also allow you to clarify any confusion or misunderstanding about the role. If there was something that you didn’t quite understand during the interview, this is your chance to get clarification.

This shows that you’re eager to move forward in the process and want to ensure you have all the information you need to succeed. By asking about the following steps, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to the role.

12. Send a follow-up email

Lastly, be sure to thank your interviewer for their time. This is a small gesture that can make a big impression. After your interview, send a follow-up email to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the position to your interviewer.

In your follow-up email, you can also address any concerns that came up during the interview or clarify any misunderstandings. Again, this shows that you’re committed to the role and are willing to go a long way.

So, be sure to thank your interviewer before you leave the interview room. This will help ensure that you end on a positive note and leave a lasting impression.

Related: Interview Questions About Management Style

Things to say in an interview to impress your potential employer

You can say a few key things in an interview that will help you stand out from the rest of the candidates and impress your potential employer. Here are a few examples:

• I am very excited about this opportunity to (insert job title here). My qualifications and experience perfectly match this position, and I would be a valuable asset to your team.

• In my previous role, I successfully (insert accomplishment related to the job here). This has given me the skills and confidence I can bring to this position and succeed in it.

• I am a quick learner and am very motivated to do well in this role. I am confident I can be a valuable asset to your team and contribute to the company’s success.

• I am very interested in this position because (insert reasons related to the job and company here). I believe I have the skills and experience needed to succeed in this role.

• I am excited to learn more about (insert job title here) and feel I would be a great asset to your team. I am confident in my ability to do well in this role and contribute to the company’s success.

These are just a few examples of things you can say in an interview to make a good impression on your potential employer. Remember to be genuine, enthusiastic, and confident when you speak; you will increase your chances of impressing your interviewer and getting the job.

Related: Leadership Experience Examples to Highlight in an Interview

What to say at an interview when asked about weaknesses

When interviewers ask about your weaknesses, they try to determine if you’re honest and self-aware. They want to know if you’ll be able to identify potential areas of improvement and whether you’re willing to work on them.

That said, there are specific weaknesses you should avoid mentioning. For example, don’t say you’re disorganized or have difficulty staying focused. Instead, focus on areas relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Some examples of weaknesses you could mention include:

• I sometimes have trouble speaking up in large groups
• I can be a perfectionist, which can lead to extra stress
• I have a hard time saying “no” when people ask for help
• I’m a bit of a workaholic, and I sometimes neglect my personal life
• I can be shy or introverted in social situations
• I can be impatient when things aren’t moving fast enough for me
• I can be impatient, and I sometimes have difficulty dealing with ambiguity

Remember, the key is, to be honest and self-aware. The interviewer wants to see that you’re able to identify areas of improvement and that you’re willing to work on them. Doing so will demonstrate your commitment to professional development and willingness to go the extra mile.

Related: Goal of Professional Development

Final Thoughts

It’s not easy to get a call for an interview, but if your job search pays you off, you must know that the interview process can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to control the outcome. Preparing in advance and being yourself during the interview can increase your chances of success.

Following these tips can make a great impression and set yourself apart from other candidates. Then, with some preparation and practice, you can ace your next interview and land the job of your dreams. We hope this guide was helpful! Good luck with your next interview!

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