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- Tech Prep: I Don't Know
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I don’t know.
Those are the three dreaded words you hate to answer with any question, especially in an interview. You think you have taken yourself out of the running and ruined any chance of securing a job.
But I’m here to tell you, you are wrong. Sure, you don’t want to answer negatively, but the trick is to make sure you spin that “I don’t know” into something positive.
For example, in my first-ever interview for a tech role, I was asked if I had any experience with Nodejs. I wanted to lie and say I did, but that is the last thing anyone wants to do. Lying will only lead to disqualification faster, so I said “I don’t know”
Most people leave it at that and move on to the next question. I said “I don’t know” but I didn’t end there.
“I don't know Nodejs very well, but in the last few years, I have taught myself several technologies that align with this position. I am confident that I will be able to Node or any other technology that you need in a timely matter.“
I didn’t just end the answer with an open-ended “I don’t know.” I flipped the answer and managed to highlight that I was a quick learner, that I had confidence in learning what they needed, and ensured them that it wouldn’t take long for me to get up to speed.
Even if you are inexperienced in an area, that doesn’t mean you are in other areas. Always highlight your skills and make sure that you connect your weaknesses with strengths and opportunities.
Never let “I don’t know” stop you from demonstrating your value in an interview. Use it as an opportunity to show honesty, resilience, and a willingness to grow. The ability to learn and adapt quickly is often more important than knowing every tool or technology upfront. So, if these words are on the tip of your tongue, don’t worry, keep calm, and remember I don’t know isn’t the end, it is the beginning.
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