A Reddit user claiming to be a recruiter explained that job interviews often function more like negotiations than rigorous truth tests. The recruiter says candidates should focus on presenting their skills and values while carefully handling certain sensitive questions.
According to the post, one common area is previous salary. As companies try to hire strong candidates at the lowest cost, applicants may feel pressured to reveal their exact salary. The recruiter suggests not disclosing the actual value if a higher offer is the goal.
“If they push you to reveal your salary (which we will), don’t give the actual amount if you want a bigger raise,” the post reads.
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Another point is the reason for leaving the job. Talking negatively about a past workplace can make the candidate seem difficult. So it is safer to classify this move as a search for growth or new challenges.
The post also recommends avoiding harsh comments about former bosses, even if it was a bad experience. Recruiters may question an applicant’s attitude or leadership skills.
“We will see you as a difficult person incapable of leadership,” the post reads.
The Reddit post goes on to say that applicants often hide certain personal truths to conform to company expectations. For example, candidates should not reveal their long-term dreams that are not related to the company. Employers want someone who plans to stay and grow with the organization.
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“It’s like going on a date and saying you’re afraid of commitment,” the post adds.
The post also emphasizes the importance of confident self-presentation. Many highly qualified professionals speak too modestly and downplay their own achievements.
“Say, ‘We faced problems along the way, but we were able to solve them.’ This puts you in a position of leadership and humility,” the Reddit post suggests.
Another key point is the role of the resume. According to the post, a resume must clearly highlight strengths and real accomplishments. A resume acts as a quick marketing document that creates a first impression in seconds.
Free digital tools now make it easy to design strong resumes, so there’s little excuse for a weak presentation.
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“Treat it like a marketing company where you have to sell yourself in five seconds. You have no excuse with the amount of free tools available to do this,” the post adds.
This report is based on user generated content from social media. LiveMint has not independently verified and does not endorse these claims.
Reaction on social networks
“Interviews aren’t polygraphs, they’re sales meetings, so stop interviewing and start marketing,” one Reddit user wrote in response to the post.
“Before you walk into the interview building, you must first learn how to own the air you breathe and the ground you walk on. Be sure the last question is about money and that you said everything to ask for a big starting salary. Even if you have no experience!” suggested another.
One user wrote: “TBH I can tell when people are lying but I respect it. For example someone will shy away from saying they are jumping for better pay, I know when they are but I don’t care. I respect a lie and would do the same.”
“Literally treat all interviews as acting auditions and do/say what you think they’ll like the most until it gets down to the actual details (salary, hours, etc.),” chimed in another.