Avoid these common mistakes when describing your current IT job
"Tell me about your current role and why you want to change."
It's an unavoidable interview question and a simple one that should be easy to overcome - but it can easily trip you up if you haven't thought about how you're going to approach it. Avoid these common mistakes as you prepare your answer to the inevitable question about your current job.
Don't: complain
It is certainly okay (and often helpful!) to discuss your frustrations with your friends and family, but it is important not to let this dissatisfaction show through in interviews.
It is generally considered unprofessional to complain about your current situation - from bad colleagues to dissatisfaction with the management team - in a job interview. Imagine this: If your interviewer were to hire you and you might also leave this company, he would not want you to complain about it at your next employer.
Do: Explain why your current company cannot support your goals
Even if you are unhappy in your current position, focus on explaining how you want to develop further. Instead of complaining about the organizational structure or the unfair treatment you have received, talk about how you can acquire new skills through the new job and help the team further when the opportunity arises.
Don't: Over-jargon
It may be tempting to use a lot of jargon, especially if you come from a complex industry. This might make you sound smarter in certain circles, but you will only frustrate your interviewer by doing so. The excessive use of jargon can give the impression that you are trying to make up for a lack of knowledge elsewhere—or worse, if it makes the interviewer feel that you do not understand what skills you should bring to the team.
Do: Measure your audience
Use of jargon may be appropriate in certain situations, but you must determine whether or not your interviewer is aware of the terminology you are using. If there is any doubt as to whether the person you are speaking with is knowledgeable about the subject matter, simply inquire about their understanding. Maintaining a common level between you and your interviewer is crucial. Asking these types of questions in a tactful manner can also serve to display your soft skills.
Don't: Underestimate your achievements
It is in your best interest to present your achievements in the best light possible, regardless of how excited you are to take on a new role. So don't forget the hard work that got you where you are today. Likewise, previous years' work experience can easily be embellished. However, it may be important to highlight certain aspects of your previous roles if they are relevant to the new one.
Do: Talk about your achievements with humility
Before your interview, review your resume (which should already include the most important contributions from each company) to remind yourself of what you've done - and think about which experiences your interviewer might want a deeper insight into. Remember that an interview is essentially a sales process. Therefore, it is your responsibility to choose the most relevant examples of how you can add value to the team.
