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Home > Blog: Interviews > 5 Things You Should Say in Every Job Interview

5 Things You Should Say in Every Job Interview

Say please, thank you, and show respectInterviews are complicated, but sometimes the simplest interview advice makes the most sense... the kind you'll find in this post by GL Hoffman, author of the blog "What Would Dad Say."

Rather than tell us more about what not to say in a job interview, GL provides a list of five simple things you should always say in an interview.

No matter who you are or what the job is, these five statements will impress your interviewer and set you apart.

1. "Please" and "Thank You"

We're all adults, so you'd think this would go without saying. That's the problem—for many job candidates it does go without saying. Respect and gratitude... verbalize them early and often.

2. "I've been thinking about your company, and I believe I can contribute by..."

This kind of statement shows you took the time to research their business. As GL points out, it doesn't matter if your analysis is wrong. The fact that you thought about the company before your interview earns you points.
 
3. "I'm impressed by the way you..."

Everyone's a sucker for a genuine compliment. If there's something you particularly liked—the building, the people, the corporate mission, the interviewer's punctuality, the music you heard on hold—say so.

4. "May I start right away?"

They won't say yes on the spot. The purpose of this kind of bold statement is to tell them you're very interested in the job. That puts you ahead of the candidates who leave with a vague statement like: "I've got a lot to think about!" or "Thanks, have a nice day!"

5. "So, the next steps are...?"

If the interviewer instructs you to do something (e.g., send work samples or references, or call Jane Smith on Monday at 9:00 am), make sure you've got the details right, then go home and follow those instructions to the letter. Yes, it's a test; don't flunk!

There you have it. It's hard to argue with courtesy, friendliness, respect, and affirmation.

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