Man Shares How One Common Interview Error Ruined His Job Chances
A Nigerian man has shared how he missed out on a job opportunity after repeatedly using the word “we” during an interview.
In a post on X, he explained that while he believed emphasising teamwork would impress the hiring panel, it backfired when they struggled to assess his individual contributions and skills.
The man noted that the panel wanted clear insights into his personal achievements and leadership abilities, which were overshadowed by his constant reference to group efforts.
Highlighting the importance of balancing personal and team contributions, he advised candidates to focus on using “I” when describing tasks and actions during interviews.
He further referenced the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method, explaining that while “we” can be appropriate when outlining the overall situation and results, the “Task” and “Action” sections should highlight individual efforts. He provided an example:
- Situation: We were building a new team facing conflict.
- Task: I had to resolve the conflict.
- Action: I initiated mediation sessions.
- Result: We became a more cohesive team.
The post has since attracted widespread attention, with many users sharing similar experiences.
One user remarked on how some top global companies reportedly reject candidates solely based on their use of “we” in responses. Others reflected on the cultural inclination towards collective speech and how it affects personal branding during job applications.
This story serves as a cautionary reminder for job seekers to balance humility with confidence by clearly articulating their own contributions during interviews.
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