The ‘We’ and ‘I’ Challenge In Job Interviews

I had an email from someone on my email list.

They had been for a job interview but didn’t get the job.

The feedback that they got was that they had used ‘we’ rather ‘I’ in the interview when answering questions.

When this happens to you as a candidate, it can be hugely frustrating.

Chances are that in the job description and person specification they made reference to looking for a team player.

So you might think that using lots of examples of when through collaborative working you achieved success would work in your favour.

Here’s the problem.

The hiring manager is looking to appoint you (the individual) not we (the team).

As a result the hiring manager is looking to find out what you can bring personally.

Now I think most recognise that achieving significant results is a team effort.

However, when in the job interview you need to showcase your value.

You need to highlight specifically what you did, even if it was a team effort.

You can say something like:

“As a team we were looking to reduce the time to produce the monthly financial reports. To help achieve that what I did or contributed to make that happen was…”

If you do that you will greatly reduce the risk of falling into the trap of talking about what we achieved rather than what I contributed or did.

Give it a try. You might just be surprised the difference it makes.

Be More Successful In Your Next Job Interview. Get Your Free Online Course

About the Author Duncan Brodie

Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.

Leave a Comment:

304 comments

Older Comments

제주출장마사지 says 28 September 2023

Your enthusiasm for the subject matter shines through every word of this article; it’s contagious! Your commitment to delivering valuable insights is greatly valued, and I eagerly anticipate more of your captivating content. Keep up the exceptional work!

출장안마 says 28 September 2023

Your blog is a true gem in the vast online world. Your consistent delivery of high-quality content is admirable. Thank you for always going above and beyond in providing valuable insights. Keep up the fantastic work!

창원출장마사지 says 28 September 2023

In a world where trustworthy information is more crucial than ever, your dedication to research and the provision of reliable content is truly commendable. Your commitment to accuracy and transparency shines through in every post. Thank you for being a beacon of reliability in the online realm.

Khxltn says 28 September 2023

pantoprazole 40mg oral brand protonix 40mg purchase pyridium generic

Older Comments

Add Your Reply

The ‘We’ and ‘I’ Challenge In Job Interviews

About the Author Duncan Brodie

Leave a Comment:

304 comments

Popular posts

It Takes More Than Being Good At The Numbers

How To Overcome That Fear When Presenting At Work

Career Success: I Am At My Best When

Team Success: How To Create A Clear Purpose