Be careful what you say!

Eight things that you should never say at a job interview

1. "What does your company do?"
Never ask such a question. You are supposed to know about the company when you go for an interview. Do the research beforehand - visit their website, and look for other sources of information. Only a very careless person would apply to work for a company without knowing anything about them. Employers do not want to hire careless people.

2. "I don't know much about the job."
You must be very clear on what the job involves and what the employer needs. You must also be clear on why the employer should choose you. If you know what he is looking for, you can give him a reason to hire you.

3. "I'm looking for a new job because my last one was too busy and too stressful."
Even if your last job was really busy, you should not say that. It suggests that you are looking for an easy life. Do not give the impression that you cannot take any stress. Dealing with stress is a matter of attitude, effort, and experience. Anyone can learn to deal with stress and a heavy workload if he tries. By saying you cannot accept some degree of stress you are saying that you are lacking in these areas. Show that you are willing to take a challenge.

4. "I've applied for this job because I can learn English here."
This suggests that you will concentrate on practicing English, rather than getting the job done. It is good to show ambition and the desire to learn. However, you must emphasize what you will do for the employer, not what you will do for yourself.

5. "When can I get a raise?"
Do not focus too much on what you get out of the job. It is not good to suggest that the money is the only issue of concern to you. If the pay and conditions are not good enough you don't have to take the job. Don't try to bargain with the employer.

6. "I was the captain of the basketball team."
This is fine if it is true. In my experience almost everyone I've ever interviewed is a former captain of a basketball team. Clearly there are a lot of basketball teams in China, so it may not be of great relevance. Also, don't say that you have certain hobbies (classical music, for example) unless it is true. You may think these make you look good, but if you are asked about them and know nothing then it can certainly make you look bad.

7. "I'd like to work here because it is close to my house."
The employer will wonder what that has to do with him. He will also think that if you find another job that is even closer to your home that you will just change jobs. Don't give the impression that you are looking for the most convenient, short-term arrangement.

8. "I don't have any questions."
Try to show some enthusiasm for the job. If you go through a whole interview without asking any questions it suggests that you do not want to learn.