12 things you should say during a job interview

So you completed a winning application form and got shortlisted for a juicy new job. The good news is you’ve already proved you’re a viable candidate. But next comes the part a lot of people dread, the job interview.

If you do your research and prepare yourself physically and mentally, you will step into the interview better equipped and more confident to answer the job interview questions you’re asked. But this is not enough by itself. There are a handful of things that interviewers love to hear without prompting – in fact, they don’t even realize they’re looking for some of these phrases until they hear them.

Be proactive. Be enthusiastic. But be focused. Use key phrases from the job description to demonstrate that you are on the same page as your interviewers. For added emphasis, illustrate how you will use these skills to benefit this specific company. Drawing a connection between your potential value and the needs of your potential employers demonstrates your engagement and passion. Saying “Here’s how I can help your company…” is the acceptable way of declaring: “I am the right person for this job.”

Be grateful, also. Business guru Suzy Welch suggests the three traits recruiters are looking for are sincerity, courage, and humility. Brave up and tell your interviewers: “ Thank you for this opportunity. I want this job.” And then send a thank-you note afterwards – it will put you ahead of three-quarters of the competition.

A little while back, we identified 14 things you should never say in a job interview. Now that you know what not to say, here are 12 proactive ways to approach the final hurdle of your job application. A handful of killer phrases you definitely should say during a job interview.

Study them. Make them your own. Then walk into the interview room, and show your potential employers you are the person they need for the job.