Over the years, I have had the privilege of coaching candidates from a wide range of industries. One thing that consistently stands out to me is the power of positive language during interviews. The way you frame your answers can make all the difference in how you’re perceived by your potential employer.

In this week’s newsletter, I’m going to share some valuable insights on how to approach various interview scenarios using positive language that positions you as confident, professional, and proactive qualities every employer looks for.

When You Don’t Know the Answer

Let’s face it, there are times in interviews when you’ll be asked a question you simply don’t know the answer to. It’s completely normal to encounter this situation, but how you handle it can leave a lasting impression.

Instead of saying, “I don’t know,” which might leave the interviewer questioning your competence, try framing your response like this:

“That’s an interesting question, and while I don’t have the exact answer right now, I’m confident that with my skills in [mention relevant skills] and my ability to research and learn quickly, I could get up to speed on this in no time.”

This response highlights your resourcefulness, willingness to learn, and confidence in overcoming challenges—traits that interviewers highly value.

When You Know the Answer

When you’re asked a question to which you already know the answer, it’s important to answer with confidence but without arrogance. Your response should demonstrate both expertise and humility. Instead of simply providing the answer, consider offering a bit of context or a relevant example that showcases your skills in action.

For example:

“In my previous role as [job title], I had the opportunity to [insert relevant experience], which gave me hands-on experience with [specific concept]. As a result, I developed a deep understanding of [relevant subject], and I’m eager to bring this knowledge to your team.”

This response not only answers the question but also demonstrates your ability to apply your knowledge in a practical context, which is what employers are truly looking for.

When You Don’t Want to Answer

Sometimes, you’ll be asked a question that you’re not comfortable answering. This could be about a sensitive issue or a topic that doesn’t directly relate to the job. In these situations, it’s important to remain professional while gently steering the conversation back to your strengths and qualifications.

A positive way to handle this might be:

“I’d prefer to focus on my skills and experiences that align closely with the requirements of this role. For example, my experience with [mention relevant experience] has allowed me to [specific accomplishment] and directly contributes to [mention relevant goal].”

This approach keeps the conversation professional and on track while avoiding a direct confrontation with the uncomfortable question.

Other Situations You Might Face

In addition to these scenarios, interviews often bring up questions that may be difficult or tricky to answer. When faced with a challenging question, remember to stay calm and collected. Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. It’s always better to pause for a few seconds and provide a thoughtful answer than rush into something less polished.

For example, when asked about gaps in your CV, instead of saying, “I didn’t do anything during that time,” you could say:

“During that period, I took the opportunity to focus on [mention any personal development, volunteering, or learning experiences], which allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Since then, I’ve been eager to apply these new insights and skills to a challenging role like this one.”

This approach shows that you’ve been proactive and have used your time wisely, which helps alleviate any concerns the interviewer may have.

Final Thoughts

The language you use in an interview isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you frame your message. Positive language can turn a neutral response into a memorable one and demonstrate the qualities that employers are seeking. By approaching each question with confidence, professionalism, and a focus on your strengths, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Remember, interviews are an opportunity to show how well you fit within a team and contribute to the company’s goals. By using positive language, you can truly shine and leave a lasting impression.

If you’re preparing for an upcoming interview and would like some personalised coaching to perfect your responses, feel free to get in touch. I’d be delighted to help you succeed!