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Being a fast learner serves people well in life. But saying so in a job interview is not necessarily a good idea. One expert thinks boasting of your ability to learn might even derail your chances on the spot.
Statements like “I catch on fast” or “I am quick to get up to speed” suggest you anticipate that there’s a learning curve ahead of you and that you’re not yet skilled or experienced enough to perform the job you’re applying for.
Being a fast learner serves people well in life. But saying so in a job interview is not necessarily a good idea. One expert thinks boasting of your ability to learn can derail your chances on the spot.
Statements like “I catch on fast” or “I am quick to get up to speed” suggest you anticipate a learning curve and that you’re not yet skilled enough to perform the job.
To a hiring manager’s ear, “These phrases make it sound as if you’re costing the company money before you are even hired,” says Scott J. Foley, a principal with Winter, Wyman Companies.
The hiring authority may conclude that instead of hitting the ground running, you may require additional training.
Instead of saying you’re a quick learner, talk about your skills and experience. For example, if you are asked about and don’t know how to use a software program, “accentuate the positive and say, ‘At my last employer I was able to learn software X with no problem,’” Foley says.
