You don’t want to come across as awkward and lacking in social skills. Rather, you’ll want to show that you have the professionalism and communication skills to be an asset to the company if hired. Review these simple steps for introducing yourself, with examples of what to do and say to everyone you meet during the hiring process so you can make a positive impression. For example:
My name is Tim Jones, and I have an interview scheduled with John Smith at 2 p.m.I’m Janine Bellows, and I have an appointment with Jacayla Clark at 10 a.m.Hi. I’m Kyra Zhandri, and I have an interview with Michael Kyrin at 4 p.m.
Be courteous and respectful to this first contact at the company and to everyone else you talk to during the interview process. Many hiring managers will ask the receptionist for their impression of a candidate. If you act rudely or dismissively, you could put yourself out of the running for the job before you even meet the hiring manager. Look directly at the camera, and try to keep your focus on the camera during the interview. That’s how you’ll make eye contact with your interviewer. The interviewer will start the meeting with an introduction. You can reply with a simple introduction of your own:
Hi. I’m Sylvia. It’s a pleasure to meet you.Hello, [Interviewer Name]. I’m Katie, and I’m looking forward to talking with you.I’m Jason. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.
Stand up if you’re seated, and shake hands if a handshake is offered to you first. Otherwise, don’t offer your hand. Tell the interviewer that it is a pleasure to meet them, smile, and make eye contact. For example:
I’m Tina Lionel. It’s a pleasure to meet you.
Avoid common interview mistakes such as not paying attention, dressing inappropriately, or not being focused on the interview. And if you know that you’re prone to interview stress, minimize the chance of it being a problem by researching the company, preparing for the interview, and practicing positive thinking. The more you prepare, the less stressful the interview process will be. The core of your response should focus on the key elements in your background that will enable you to excel in the job for which you are interviewing. Be ready to discuss your strengths, creativity, leadership and problem-solving skills, and the contributions you can make to the organization. To prepare an introduction that will help you sell your qualifications to the interviewer you can:
Create an elevator pitch and practice it so you’re comfortable describing yourself. Your pitch will be a quick synopsis of your background and credentials. Carefully analyze the job before the interview so you can point out the interests, skills, experiences, and personal qualities that will enable you to meet or exceed the job and company requirements.
Review answers to “tell me about yourself” interview questions to learn the best ways to highlight your skills, experience, and personality without sharing too much information or taking up too much interview time. Your goal is to connect personally with the interviewer in addition to showing that you’re qualified for the job and would make a great new hire. Of course, your initial comments should show your enthusiasm for the job and the organization. However, don’t overdo it or spend too much time talking about yourself. The interviewer has an agenda and time is limited, so keep your introduction brief so you can move on to the next question.
Share Examples
Be prepared to provide specific examples of how and where you have utilized your assets to successfully carry out work, perform in volunteer roles, or accomplish academic projects or other productive endeavors. One way to provide detailed responses is to use the STAR interview technique to describe your accomplishments and achievements.
Ask Questions
You should also be prepared to ask questions during the interview. Have a short list of questions ready that you’d like to ask your interviewer about the job and the company. Use the interview as a chance not only to highlight your qualifications but also to determine whether this job and employer are a good fit for you and your career goals. Make sure you know what to say, what to bring with you, and how to answer and ask questions politely and professionally so as to make the best possible impression.
