When it comes to job interviews, candidates often focus heavily on making a great first impression—polishing their resume, practicing answers to common questions, and dressing the part. But according to former HR executives from global payments giant Visa, there's one major red flag that can instantly raise concerns about a candidate's fit for the role.
It's not about nervousness or stumbling over a question—it's how the person talks about their previous work experiences and responsibilities.
"These conversations are not just about skills or credentials," said one former senior HR leader at Visa. "We’re looking for signals about how someone views their role in a team, how they handle accountability, and whether they take ownership of their contributions."
The top red flag? Vagueness or deflection when asked about specific achievements or challenges in prior roles. Candidates who struggle to articulate what *they* did—or who consistently shift blame onto colleagues, managers, or external circumstances—signal a potential lack of self-awareness or responsibility.
"When someone says things like 'we did this' instead of owning their individual role, or if they can't give concrete examples of how they solved a problem, that becomes a concern," another ex-Visa HR executive explained. "We want people who can reflect honestly on their work and continue learning from it."
This kind of response, or lack thereof, can say a lot about how a person will approach future challenges and collaborate with others. Employers aren’t just hiring for technical ability—they're assessing cultural fit, mindset, and long-term potential.
So, what's the takeaway for job seekers?
Be ready to speak clearly and confidently about your past experiences. Use specific examples, own both your successes and your setbacks, and show that you understand your unique impact on projects and teams.
In a competitive job market, authenticity and self-awareness can be just as valuable as expertise, and could make the difference between landing the job and falling short.