What Recruiters Dread Hearing in Interviews – Revealed

Recruiters sift through hundreds, sometimes thousands, of applications, and as we meet each candidate we invite for an interview, certain red flags or behaviors can quickly make us wary.

Understanding what downright scares off recruiters can help you avoid common mistakes and position yourself as a strong candidate for the role.

When it comes to the recruitment process, the focus is not merely on the experience itself but how you present yourself.

With that in mind, here are a few things you should avoid saying during an interview to increase your chances of landing a job:

1. “No, I did not research about your company.” A lack of preparation for the interview is a universal negative sign. Even if you prepared for other common questions, there’s an edge in having knowledge about the company you are applying for.
   

   We love it when candidates take time to research us! By showing your commitment and interest in joining the FAm, we’re assured you are serious about the opportunity. So, make time and do your homework before your interview.

2. “Sorry, I forgot about the interview this morning.”

   Yes, life gets busy and things slip through the cracks sometimes. We understand that unforeseen circumstances can affect punctuality, so we  sometimes offer a second chance and allow rescheduling but it’s crucial to show up on time for your interview.

   Punctuality is important to us because it reflects a candidate’s reliability and professionalism – qualities we value. It’s best to set reminders or put your scheduled interview in your calendar because respecting the interviewer’s time leaves a positive impression and shows that you are committed to the process.

3. “I’ve forgotten the responsibilities I had in that company because it was so long ago.”

   Regardless of how long ago your previous role was or how many different jobs you’ve had, avoid saying you forgot your past duties and responsibilities. If you struggle to recall details, take a look at your CV to refresh your memory.

   Reviewing your own work history can help you identify key tasks and achievements, allowing you to speak confidently about your experience during the interview. Reflecting on your primary responsibilities and core tasks also shows that you’re organized and prepared. 4. “I couldn’t stand my teammates.” or “My boss was horrible.” We all have had bad experiences before with previous companies, colleagues or managers, but badmouthing them is not a good idea and can lead to a difficult conversation.

   It’s okay to acknowledge workplace challenges but avoid overly negative or emotional language. It’s better to focus on the actions that you did to address the toxic environment and the skills you gained during your time there. Try to highlight the positive aspects of your experience and the lessons learned rather than the negative.

5. “I’m not sure what my salary expectations are.”
   

   This is something we often hear from candidates. It's understandable to be unsure, given the numerous factors that influence salary expectations, but as an applicant, you must be prepared with a clear answer regarding your expected salary. If you’re really unsure, you could provide a range to allow leeway.

   Asking about the scope of the work can also help you better assess the opportunity and ensure both you and the recruiter are aligned on salary expectations. This preparation helps save time for both parties and makes salary negotiations smoother.

   By being mindful of your words, you have the power to leave a lasting, positive impression on recruiters, leading you closer towards your dream job.

Remember, every interview is a chance to show who you are and what you can offer. So, take a deep breath, be your best self, and make the most out of it😉

And if you do face a setback or rejection, don't worry. It happens and we never close doors here at Frontline. We encourage you to keep growing to bounce back, and when the time is right, you’re welcome to reapply.

We’re here cheering for you every step of the way. Don’t forget to follow us for more opportunities to join the FAm! 

Happy virtual job hunting! Frontline Accounting Recruitment Team