5 Things You Shouldn’t Talk About in Your Interview

Interviews are anxiety-inducing situations, and when you feel nervous, it’s easy to find yourself babbling just to fill up the empty space. However, rambling is dangerous in a job interview because you could inadvertently overshare and talk your way out of the position. Here are four things you should never talk about in a job interview.

A Bad Job or a Bad Boss

Most people have had at least one bad job or boss, but don’t make the mistake of talking about that in a job interview. Even if you worked for a nightmarish company, it reflects poorly on you to speak ill of past employers, even part-time employers. Hiring managers interpret bad-mouthing as unprofessional behavior.

Personal Philosophies

Your religious faith and your politics may be an important part of who you are, but you should never discuss these things in an interview. First, your belief systems and principles are no one’s business, and second, you never know how your interviewer feels about these subjects. It is illegal for employers to ask about your religion, so if you are asked about it directly, you can answer by asking the hiring manager how your religion relates to your ability to do the position.

Your Family Status

While it is perfectly acceptable to talk about your hobbies, never discuss your family situation. Don’t mention relationships, an engagement, marriage, divorce, children, plans for children, etc. Unfortunately, some people make assumptions about young people just thinking about marriage and family and it can damage your chances of getting the job. It is not legal to ask about your family status, so if you are asked, say, “I’m satisfied with where I am personally; I’m very interested in hearing about potential career paths with this organization.”

Your Financial Situation

Talking about your college debt, your empty bank account or the fact you have been eating ramen three times a day won’t do anything to help you get the job – even if you do desperately need it. The only conversation you should have about money is the actual salary being offered for the role.

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