Career Success Team

January 30, 2026 6 min read

5 Best Things to Say in a Job Interview to Get Hired

Master your next job interview with these 5 powerful phrases and strategies. Learn how to build rapport, show flexibility, and leave a lasting impression.

Walking into a job interview can feel like navigating a high-stakes performance where every word carries weight. While your qualifications get you through the door, your communication style determines if you stay in the room. Saying the right thing isn't about following a script; it’s about keeping the conversation on track, building genuine rapport, and demonstrating that you are a solution to the company’s problems.

At MobileCV, we believe that career success starts with a great first impression. Whether you are using our AI CV builder to land the interview or preparing for the final handshake, the language you use matters. Here are five essential things to consider saying during your next job interview to increase your chances of getting hired.

1. Ask Meaningful, High-Value Questions

One of the most common mistakes candidates make is treating the "Do you have any questions for us?" segment as an afterthought. Never ask a question just for the sake of asking. Instead, use this as an opportunity to vet the company as much as they are vetting you.

Ask questions that help you decide if you actually want to spend 40 hours a week in that environment. For example, asking about team dynamics or how the company defines success for this role shows you are thinking long-term. This level of engagement signals to the recruiter that you are a serious professional who values their own career trajectory.

2. Demonstrate Professional Flexibility

During the early stages of the interview process, being easy to work with is a competitive advantage. Whether it is scheduling a follow-up meeting or discussing a potential start date, try to be as accommodating as possible. While you should never be a pushover when it comes to highlighting your value, being rigid about minor logistics can be a red flag.

"If you start saying 'no' to small requests early on, employers may assume you’ll be a difficult employee to manage. Aim to be the candidate who solves problems, not the one who creates them."

By saying "yes" to the process, you build trust. This doesn't mean compromising on your worth, but rather showing that you are a team player from day one.

3. Mirror the Company’s Terminology

To build instant rapport, pay close attention to the language used in the job description and by the interviewers themselves. Every industry and company has its own "dialect." If they refer to customers as "partners," you should too. If they emphasize "agile workflows," weave that into your answers.

When an interviewer hears their own terminology reflected in your responses, it creates a subconscious sense of belonging. It proves that you have done your homework and that you already speak their language. To ensure your initial application aligns with this, you can use our AI editor to refine your wording before you even apply.

4. Pivot Gracefully When Challenged

You will eventually face a question that stumps you. Instead of a flat "I don't know," which can stall the momentum, use a professional pivot. Say, "That is a really good question. May I take a moment to think about that so I can give you a thoughtful answer?"

This approach does three things:

  • It pays the interviewer a subtle compliment.
  • It shows you are reflective and don't rush into impulsive decisions.
  • It gives you the breathing room to formulate a response that highlights your relevant skills and experience.

5. Explicitly State Your Interest

Don’t leave the interviewer guessing. Many qualified candidates lose out simply because they didn't seem enthusiastic enough. At the end of the conversation, let them know clearly that you want the job. Connect your interest to a personal or professional goal—explain why this specific company and its mission resonate with you.

If the interview has gone well, don't be afraid to ask about the next steps. This humanizes you and separates you from the hundreds of other applicants in the ATS-optimized pile. It shows you are not just looking for any job, but for this job.

Final Thoughts on Interview Success

Preparation is the bridge between a good candidate and a hired one. Before you can use these verbal strategies, ensure your foundation is solid. Using a modern resume builder ensures that your professional history is presented clearly, allowing you to focus your energy on the conversation. By combining a high-quality resume with these five communication pillars, you position yourself as the top choice for any hiring manager.

Career Success Team

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Helping job seekers create professional, ATS-optimized resumes that get interviews. Expert career advice from the MobileCV team.

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