Many times people don’t say what they really mean. Here are some phrases and the real meaning.
- Phrase: I’m not sure that is a good idea. Real meaning: Its a terrible idea and you are stupid to think that way.
- Phrase: You have some red flags as a candidate. Real meaning: We don’t want to waste our time on understanding your experiences.
- Phrase: You don’t fit in the culture here. Real meaning: You are going to be a PITA and challenge authority.
- Phrase: You are overqualified. Real meaning: We don’t want to pay you what you are worth and you are likely to leave for a better job.
- Phrase: The paperwork is on its way. Real meaning: We still need time to think about you so instead of using Docusign we are trying to buy ourselves more time.
- Phrase: You are the best candidate we found. Real meaning: You are the cheapest candidate they found that has what they are looking for.
- Phrase: We work hard and play hard here. Real meaning: We expect long hours and you never to have a life besides us.
- Phrase: We only hire the best. Real meaning: We only hire people that seem like us.
- Phrase: We want you to teach our other employees. Real meaning: You will be gotten rid of when the knowledge transfer happens.
- Phrase: We can’t afford to move you to another position. You are too good what you are doing. Real meaning: You have made someone angry and they don’t want you to have any real authority.
Focus on what people are saying behind the words they are saying.