7 things you should say in an interview

Today’s job market is as competitive as ever. You need to be able to effectively communicate your skill set so that you give yourself the best competitive advantage in securing a job. During the interview process, you want to highlight as many of your strengths as possible.

An easy way to do this is by incorporating a few simple phrases into your next job interview. Here are seven things you should say in an interview.

1. I am very familiar with what your company does

Letting a prospective employer know that you’re familiar with what a company does shows that you have a legitimate interest in the business and aren’t just wasting their time. Do your homework before you arrive for an interview. Check out the company’s website for product and service information. Search for the latest deals and relevant business news.

Be sure to let the interviewer know that you are aware of the latest company acquisition or the newest product that was just developed. Explain how your skills and experience are ideal for the employer.

2. I am flexible

The work environment is always changing. Prospective employers are looking for candidates who are open to change and can adapt on the fly. In today’s fast-paced business world, employees must have the ability to multitask.

Saying you’re adaptable lets the employer know you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. This may mean working extra hours or taking on additional work responsibilities in a crisis. Show your potential employer that you are prepared to handle any crisis that may arise.

3. I am energetic and have a positive attitude

Employers are looking for candidates with optimism and a can-do attitude. Attitudes are contagious and directly affect company morale. Let the optimist in you shine through the interview process.

Remember to always speak positively about previous employers. Negative comments and sarcastic statements about previous employers and colleagues will make you look petty. If you bad mouth your previous company, employers tend to believe you will do the same to them.

4. I have a lot of experience

This is your chance to shine. Highlight any previous job duties that are directly related to your new job. If this is a management position, indicate each time that you were responsible for the supervision, training and development of other employees. Discuss your motivational techniques and share specific examples of how you increased productivity. Feel free to list any training classes or workshops you’ve attended.

5. I am a team player

Remember when you were young and your teacher wanted to know if you could work well with others? Well, the job market is no different. Companies look for employees who are cooperative and get along well with other employees. Mentioning that you are a team player lets your prospective employer know that you can thrive in group situations.

Employers are looking for workers who can be productive with limited supervision and have the ability to work well with others.

6. I am looking to become an expert in my field

Employers love candidates who increase their knowledge base to become the best employees possible. Stating that you are striving to become an expert makes employers see you as an asset rather than a liability. You are a resource that other employees can learn from.

It’s also a subtle way to illustrate that you have an attitude of perfection. You strive to be the best at what you do. This will let employers know that you’re not just an employee, but that you’re in it for the long haul.

7. I am highly motivated

A motivated employee is a productive employee. Talk about how your high level of motivation has made you achieve many things. If you are a meticulous worker, discuss your organizational skills and attention to detail. Companies are always looking for reliable employees they can count on.

The bottom row

Remember that a job interview is an opportunity to sell yourself to a prospective employer. Be sure to enter the correct phrases to give yourself the best possible chance of landing your dream job.