Landing your dream job could come with a twist – strategic dishonesty.
As we march into the new year, job seekers are polishing their interview skills, aiming to shine amongst the competition. The art of the interview is a daunting one, where self-promotion can become quite the challenge under the immense pressure to nail that crucial first impression with potential employers.
However, it seems there might be elements in an interview where honesty isn’t necessarily the best policy. A career expert suggests that stretching the truth on certain topics can sometimes play to your advantage, ensuring you deliver the ideal answers interviewers seek.
It’s certainly not about fabrications regarding your qualifications or work history – it’s always best to be honest about that. Rather, tactical untruths around specifics may nudge you ahead in the race.
TikTok’s star careers advisor, Iz Valantina, AKA The Corporate Agony Aunt, explained this unusual advice in a video that’s racked up more than one million views. . Boldly claiming that people should “absolutely should lie” on certain matters, which included…
Why you left your old job
Iz said: “Number one, your reason for leaving. Even if it’s the most valid reason, if it’s negative, I don’t want to hear it. Keep it positive, keep it professional, keep it progressive.
“For example, ‘I’m looking to leave my current company because I think I’ve exhausted all of the development opportunities there. I’ve really enjoyed my time there, but I’m looking for a company like yours that is dynamic and can promote from within and help me reach my full potential’.”
How many job offers you have
Next, Iz advised against revealing the exact number of job offers or interview processes you’re involved in. She suggested that even if you’re interviewing for your “dream job”, it’s not wise to let on that it’s your sole opportunity as this could make you appear “desperate” for the position.
Instead, giving the impression that you have multiple offers can position you as “top talent” that companies are eager to secure.
Travel plans
The expert, who has 37,000 followers, also recommended keeping your wanderlust quiet during interviews. By saying you want to travel, you could be implying you won’t stick around long.
She added: “It just tells me that you’re only getting this job so you can pay for that. Part of life is about doing what you want to do, but I don’t need to hear it, so don’t be so honest in that circumstance.”
Big dreams
Lastly, Iz mentioned that you should avoid disclosing any ambitions of “Setting up your own empire”. While she supports side projects, she believes informing your interviewer about your personal business ventures could lead them to question your commitment to their company.
She pointed out that while having entrepreneurial aspirations might seem commendable, it could give the impression that you lack dedication to the employer’s goals, as you’re ultimately focused on succeeding in your own business.