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Interview Etiquette – 12 Things Not to Say During an Interview

22 Jul 2010 By: Diane Gottsman

It should be no surprise to an applicant that arrives 15 minutes late, or ill prepared, that perhaps some prior planning should have been in order.  The interview questions are fairly standard, but the responses from those applying for a job are often quite surprising.  I personally interviewed a young woman who arrived, doughnut in hand, and made the comment, “I would shake your hand, but I’m afraid I’m a little sticky.”  She was otherwise a fairly good candidate, but never was a consideration due to her grand entrance.

12 Things Not to Say During an Interview:

  1. Sorry I’m late; I just can’t get started without my first cup of coffee.
  2. When do I get my first paycheck?
  3. Do I have to wear a suit?
  4. I can start Monday, but I’m already scheduled to take a 3-week vacation next month.
  5. I’m just not a morning person.
  6. Nope, no other questions.
  7. When is lunch around here?
  8. I left my last job because my boss was such a jerk.
  9. Do you pay for my mobile phone?  Texting and iTunes too?
  10. This sounds pretty easy.
  11. How many sick days do I get a year?
  12. What’s the policy on dating colleagues?

In today’s competitive job market, one inappropriate comment can easily turn into a monumental career roadblock.  Wake up early and enjoy your caffeine before you get to the interview.

Good luck!

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.