If you are in the job market, "Honesty is the best policy" holds true as an adage for you to follow. However, it is important to be discerning and thoughtful about what and how much to reveal to a prospective employer.

Here are a few examples of questions that could come up during any job search and real-life responses that might cost you the job of your dreams:

1. Why did you apply for this particular job?

Honest, but not the best reply: I love Maine and have always wanted to get back to sailing.

While this may be true, your personal motivation should not be stated as the first and primary reason for applying. Be prepared for this commonly asked question by indicating a strong match between your skills and experience and the qualifications required.

2. Why did you leave your last job?
Honest, but not the best reply: Well…Let's just say that my boss and I did not get along.

Whenever possible, keep your comments positive, particularly when it comes to past employment experiences. Even if you did not see eye to eye with your supervisor, stating this might cause the interviewer to question your ability to get along with authority figures. Instead, say that it was time to find a job that offered different working relationships where you had more autonomy (or whatever else might be pertinent to you).

3. What are your salary requirements?
Honest, but not the best reply: I'm flexible.

Employers want a ballpark figure of an applicant's compensation expectations. While you may indeed be flexible as to what you might accept, you need to do your homework around compensation. Research what this type of position pays in the marketplace and indicate a salary range that is consistent with your experience and expertise. When it comes time to negotiate a specific salary, consider your knowledge of the specific job and what value you will add.

4. What are your weaknesses?
Honest, but not the best reply: You respond with a list of shortcomings only your mother would know!

A brief answer is key to this question. If you are confident that you have what it takes to do the job, focus on that, rather than any weakness that is not relevant to your getting the job done.

5. What do you want to do? (Asked during an informational interview or by a friend or colleague who wants to help you with your job search.)

Honest, but not the best reply: I really don't know.

When someone offers to help you with your job search, they need to have some clues about your goals. It is not necessary to name a specific job title when asked this question. Instead, be prepared to state a few key skills you want to use along with some thoughts about the type of work environment in which you'd like to work. Let them tell you what comes to mind as possible matches for you.

In order to put your best foot forward during your job search, try to anticipate these types of questions. During conversations or job interviews, breathe, and even pause a few seconds before answering difficult questions. Being reflective might allow you to discern between a naïve and honest response and a frank, but wise one.

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