If You Don’t Know, Then I Don’t Know!

“I don’t know” can’t possibly be an acceptable answer for an interview question and yet people use it everyday. So why is it that someone would use it? My answer to that question: “I don’t know.” I just know for a fact it is used. Wrong answer! The problem is people actually use it when they don’t know how to respond to a tough interview question. And then they wonder why they didn’t get the job.

One of my recommendations to job seekers is to ask for feedback whenever possible. Some organizations are willing to share reasons why you were not selected. But can you imagine asking “why didn’t you select me for the position?” And the hiring manager’s response is: “I don’t know.” How does that sound? “I don’t know.”

If you haven’t figured it out yet, I am trying to make a point – your in ability to come up with an appropriate answer may be the difference between you moving forward in the hiring process and/or getting a job offer – “I don’t know.” What I do know is there is a better answer to the question when you don’t know, other than “I don’t know.”

Here are two options that can be re-worded to fit just about any question you are asked:

1. Can we skip that question and come back to it later in the interview?

2. I have not had an opportuity to learn “that” (whatever “that is”), however I appreciate the opportunity to learn with your organization.

3. I don’t have an answer for your question, however I am happy to get back to you within the next 24-48 hours.

Usage of “don’t” is more common in the speech of the less educated than that of the educated. That has to be the biggest reason for you to be prepared. You will face questions you are not prepared to answer in an interview. It will happen, but at least prepare how you would like to answer rather than choosing “I don’t know.” One thing that sets apart job seekers who are successful navigating the hiring process with those who are not as successful is that those who are successful come to the table as problem solvers.

Problem solvers are people who can take any situation, issue, process or person and move past obstacles to a viable solution. Interviews are obstacles in your way to landing a great job opportunity. “I don’t know” about you, but as a coach, your coach if you spend time here at Interview Chatter, “I don’t know” should be deleted from your vocabulary.

If “you don’t know,” than find out – get an answer

If “you don’t know,” then get creative

If “you don’t know,” then get an education

If “you don’t know”, then “I don’t know,” but what “I do know” is the next job seeker they interview will know the answer and you will still be home trying to figure out what “you don’t know”.

Tags: Interview Chatter, I don’t know, If you don’t know, job seeker, job opportunity, Interview, Problem solvers, Coach

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