Beware of mixed messages in job interviews

By Margaret Steen
Knight Ridder News Service

Landing an interview can seem like a major success in today's job market. But it's only the first step toward getting a job — and it's filled with pitfalls.

People "very, very innocently get themselves in trouble" in interviews, said Nancy Perlin, owner of Partners Search in Redwood City, Calif.

Job interviews are not normal conversations, no matter how much the interviewer tries to put you at ease, Perlin pointed out. Questions and answers that would be innocuous in a more casual setting can have unintended consequences in an interview.

Most people understand that a major goal of individuals interviewed is to show they would be the best person for the job.

They may not think as much about another goal that's as important: Avoid giving the interviewer a reason not to hire you.

If the interviewer gets nervous about what it will be like to work with you, either because of what you say or how you say it, you'll probably be passed over.

Some examples from Perlin of well-intentioned responses that create those red flags for interviewers.

• You say: "My last position didn't use all my many talents and skills, so I'm looking for a better position."

The interviewer hears: "I did very little at my last job and didn't contribute much to my employer."

It sounds like you're complaining, Perlin said. It suggests you won't take the initiative to find new challenges.

You should have said: "I accomplished everything I wanted to and more with my last employer, and then started thinking about the next step in my career."

• You say: "I'm the kind of person who loves to be motivated by new and different challenges."

The interviewer hears: "I'm the kind of person who will refuse to do the everyday work that is boring but necessary."

It's good to say you're motivated by new challenges, Perlin said. But reassure the interviewer that you're up to more mundane tasks.

You should have said: "I get really motivated by new and creative challenges — and I'm really good at making sure everyday details are taken care of."

• You say: "I have some questions about your company's future financial plans."

The interviewer hears: "I'm a high-maintenance candidate who's going to probe and be difficult."

You've got a legitimate question, Perlin said — but you should ask it once you have an offer in hand. If your goal in asking it during an interview is to show that you've done your research on the company, there are more positive ways to do that. For example, you can ask about the company's new products or growth plans.

You should have said nothing until you received an offer.

Perlin's final advice? Keep your spirits up so you can approach an interview with confidence. Acting desperate for a job is unlikely to get you one.