Intelligent Words to Use on a Job Interview

It's always important to present yourself as professionally as possible on a job interview. This typically includes appearance, presentation of resume, posture, and a positive attitude. All of these qualities can convince an employer that you're the right fit for the job.

A well-spoken job candidate, however, is an infrequent find. Using the appropriate vocabulary words will capture the attention of the interviewer. Many prospective employers interview dozens of candidates for one position. Displaying a command of the English language will help you stand out above the other candidates.

While it is important to impress a potential employer, don't use words that will intimidate, befuddle, or confuse your interviewer. Instead, stick to some commonly understood but seldom used spoken vocabulary words which can apply to almost any job interview.

Applicable

Definition: Relevant, able to be used, in reference to, appropriate.

Example: My applicable skills include writing, proofreading, and typing.

Connotation: A very active word, it is appropriate by its own definition. Commonly used in professional written vocabulary, this word is impressive when spoken.

Effective

Definition: Able to accomplish set purpose, worth remembering.

Example: My implemented methods were effective in reducing overhead by seventeen percent.

Connotation: A clear and concise word, the speaker presents a straightforward grasp of the word by using it.

Excel

Definition: To surpass the average in success in an area.

Example: My grade point average in my major will reveal that I excel in English.

Connotation: This is a professional, tactful way to describe the subject's gift or extreme capability.

Practiced

Definition: Masterful, experienced, possessing a repeatedly demonstrated skill.

Example: I am a practiced editor, having that title on six publications in the past seven months.

Connotation: This word is a tactful way for the subject to describe him or her self as an expert without bragging. It also implies repeated success.

Versatile

Definition: Able to handle a variety of tasks; mutable or changeable.

Example: In 1999, I developed a versatile proprietary web database to track the company's earnings.

Connotation: This word is very positive and implies that the subject can handle multiple functions.

During a job interview, you are expected to sell yourself as the candidate. This can be difficult to achieve without overt bragging, but with the proper use of tactful words, you will succeed.

Ensure that you have a full command of these words before the job interview and connect specific words with specific traits and potential questions. For example, an interviewer may ask: "What are your strengths in marketing?" Your practiced reply for this obvious question could be: "I excel in producing and distributing appropriate marketing materials." When delivered with confidence, practiced responses will feel natural and the employer will consider them effective.