Last summer I was given the opportunity to apply for a job at a Fortune 100 Company. I impressed the company enough to earn several interviews. The first interview went well, but my resumé unraveled at the second interview. I was questioned about my experiences in scouting, where I had failed to reach the pinnacle of Eagle Scout (needing five required merit badges and a service project in less than a year made it impossible). My reputation was harmed even further when ,asked what I would do if I found someone breaking the rules, I said "I would rat them out." To this day, I still believe those words cost me the chance of my high school career.
The words you say paint as much of a picture as what you wear. For example, using the word "rat," a slang term for reporting someone for a wrong doing, gives one the image of a whistle blower and a substandard person. Using colloquial words at an interview is as powerful as showing up to that interview without a tie or in sneakers.
Next time I get such an opportunity, I will remember to choose my shirt, shoes, suit and, most importantly, the words I choose to say.
Importance of Words in the Workplace
By Kyle_Johnson - Posted on February 22nd, 2008
I don’t think that the slang word “rat” is what was such a problem as much as the connotation. The word evokes thoughts of sneakiness and disloyalty. I’m sure your potential employers were looking for a response closer to “I’d talk to them about their actions and then maybe bring it up with a superviser.”