Jewish Wisdom for Acing Your Next Job Interview

Ethics of the Fathers, known as Pirkei Avot in Hebrew, is a beloved section of the Mishnah that’s filled with bite-sized teachings on how to live wisely, ethically and with purpose. While it wasn’t written with hiring managers in mind, its timeless insights are surprisingly useful for today’s job seekers.

Here are five teachings from Ethics of the Fathers that can help you walk into your next interview with confidence and a values-driven edge:

1. “Who is wise? One who learns from everyone” (4:1).

Be curious, minimize your ego.

You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room; you just need to be the one who’s eager to learn. In interviews, candidates often feel pressured to prove they know everything. But employers are just as impressed by someone who asks thoughtful questions, is eager to grow and is confident enough to know when they don’t know.

Whether you’re talking about a past job or learning about a new team, show that you value others’ perspectives. Let your humility and teachability stand out.

2. “Judge every person favorably” (1:6).

Speak with maturity and grace.

You’ll often be asked about difficult coworkers, workplace conflict or challenges with a previous boss. How you respond says a lot. Speaking negatively—even if it’s true—can reflect poorly on you.

This teaching reminds us to give others the benefit of the doubt, be diplomatic and kind. It shows emotional intelligence, professionalism and the ability to handle conflict in a healthy way.

3. “In a place where there are no leaders, strive to be a leader” (2:6).

Share stories of initiative.

When interviewers ask about leadership, they’re not only interested in titles. They want to know: Did you step up when things got messy? Did you take action when others froze?

Use this opportunity to tell a story about a time you took ownership of a project or solved a problem no one else wanted to tackle. Employers are looking for people who don’t wait to be asked—they just lead.

4. “Make for yourself a teacher; acquire for yourself a friend” (1:2).

Show that you seek mentorship and build relationships.

Success rarely happens in a vacuum. Strong candidates are those who seek out guidance, grow from feedback and value collaboration.

Talk about mentors who shaped you or colleagues who helped you grow. Show that you’re the kind of person who lifts others up and isn’t afraid to ask for help. That blend of humility and connection makes a lasting impression.

5. “Who is honored? One who honors others” (4:1).

Treat everyone with respect.

The way you speak about others says more about you than you might realize. Honoring others—past teammates, direct reports and coworkers you didn’t get along with—signals that you’re respectful, grounded and team-oriented.

It also makes you more likable. And in many interviews, likability is just as important as qualifications. Companies want people who not only do great work, but make others feel valued while doing it.

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking. But when you enter the room with a sense of purpose, integrity and Ethics of the Fathers in your back pocket, you bring more than just your resume. You bring exceptional character, and that might be the most compelling credential of all.

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