When is Too Comfortable Too Much in a Job or an Interview?

To some degree, it can be beneficial to be comfortable in your job or, if you’re a job seeker, in an interview. However, there is a fine line between being comfortable and too comfortable. Getting too comfortable in a job can lead to complacency and disinterest. If you find your work no longer challenges you and you are performing your job on auto-pilot, it may be time to look for opportunities to take on more responsibility. Start by identifying any immediate tasks or projects you can assist with, and meet with your manager to see if he or she agrees or could propose other additional responsibilities.

Performing mundane work, particularly over time, can stymie creativity, problem-solving skills, or the ability to handle unexpected situations and tasks. Dull and routine work can also lead to careless errors and poor quality, plus productivity can slide.

In interview situations, being too comfortable can also backfire and even be detrimental if that comfort is mistakenly interpreted as a lack of enthusiasm about the job opportunity. Additional drawbacks may include being too casual in your responses or sharing personal information that is unrelated to the job you’re pursuing. These behaviors are often perceived as unprofessional.

Learn to recognize when you’re crossing the line between being professional and being too comfortable. It’s a fine line that you don’t want to cross.