Each and every little thing you say (yes, even just one sentence) during a job interview shapes whether or not a hiring manager thinks you are a strong fit for the job. That's why it's important to remind yourself in advance of what to say and what to resist saying.

'I'm a motivated self-starter.'

• This is an overused response and best case scenario: the interviewer won't ask you to elaborate

• A more appropriate response would be: "I'm not afraid to take the lead on projects, and I can do so with little guidance."

In five years, I hope to be in your position

• Outline potential ways you see yourself growing at the organization

• Highlight some key skills required for the job, and how you can build upon those skills

• Show that you care about career advancement and are dedicated to the company's long-term growth

'I didn't like my previous boss.'

• Never speak badly about a former boss, no matter how bad of an experience you may have had.

• If you were fired, explain the situation without taking or assigning blame. Talk about what you could have done differently to change the outcome.

My biggest weakness is that I'm a perfectionist

• Turn to former bosses and co-workers for feedback

• Ask them to rank you based on what they think is your strongest and weakest skills

• Being honest about weaknesses and what you need to work on is the best way to overcome them

'Can you tell me more about the company?'

• The hiring manager took the time to read your resume and learn more about your background, so you are expected to do the same and make time to research them.

• It's okay to ask them to elaborate on a very specific questions (e.g., "What are your team's monthly goals?"), but going into the interview with little information about the companies is insulting and will lead to a poor first impression.

What do your perks and benefits look like?

• Never bring up employee benefits early in the interview process.

• The first few interviews are meant to determine whether you should continue to be in the running for the position.

• Topics involving benefits are irrelevant if you don't make it past those early rounds.

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