Want a new job? The first interview is a crucial part of the recruitment process.
Candidates should consider what they wear and how they want to appear, but perhaps more importantly, the subtle body language and other non-verbal cues that install confidence in recruiters that you are the right person for the job.
First impressions are everything. A key interview skill is to be able to confidently and clearly introduce yourself to prospective employers, setting you up for success. So how do you do this?
What do interviewers look for during a job interview?
Interviewers want to see composed, confident and enthusiastic candidates. The first two of those traits are supported by preparing for the interview by researching the company and job, showing you are a good fit for the role. Research the role(s) of the interviewer(s) to understand their responsibilities within the wider organisation, and what they also might be interested in to find topical points of discussion .
Interviewers also want to know about you. Prepare a short personal introduction before the interview and practice speaking it. This will give potential employers insight into your background, experience and qualifications, and should include a brief reference outlining your knowledge of the company. Showing interviewers what enthuses you and makes you tick can highlight your positive personal characteristics.
Interviewers will pay close attention to your tone of voice, etiquette, appearance, posture, communication skills and body language including eye contact during conversations.
How to introduce yourself in an interview: a step-by-step guide
How you introduce yourself will set the tone for the rest of the interview and influence your chances of success.
1. Looking the part
Pay attention to your appearance, what you wear and your overall etiquette during the interview. Wearing clothes appropriate to the environment you will be working in can also show your commitment to the role up for grabs
2. Paying attention to body language
Research suggests that most communication is non-verbal. Making eye contact with interviewers, sitting up straight, avoiding slouching, a lack of fidgeting, and avoiding “gabbling” or slang can really help a candidate’s prospects.
3. Greeting the interviewer professionally
When prompted, tell the interviewer about yourself, in a brief, clear and logical way, using your preparation to outline your experience, qualifications and reasons why you are a great fit for the job.
4. Showing your skills
If asked specific questions by the interviewer that allow you to highlight your skills, have some key examples ready to go If not, including a brief example of how you can solve problems, create opportunities, inspire co-workers or please customers will stand you in good stead.
5. Acting professionally
At all times, behave as if you were working for the company. Show your natural self, so recruiters see what you are like and how you would fit in with their own organisational culture. If an unexpected event happens, like a fire drill, follow their instructions.
6. Focusing on the future
During the interview, identify an opportunity to relay your career goals and how you might achieve them in this new role. Communicate how you will be an asset for your potential employer, and how indispensable you will be!
Don’t miss out on our other key guides to interview support
What is a great closing statement for an interview?
A great closing statement at an interview should incorporate friendliness, a desire to move onto the next step of the interview process, and an indication of how you can help the company you are interviewing for achieve success.
It should illustrate and support your personal qualities and offer ways that these can be incorporated into the role for the benefit of both parties. Ask one or two questions about your role, training, career and development options, the aims of the company and its future plans.
Make your last impression clear and impactful and remember to thank all participants for their time and interest in you, as well as asking when and how you will hear back about the next stage of the recruitment process.
Conclusion
Job interviews can cause apprehension for candidates but are vital for companies who want to hire the right talent. Candidate apprehension can be reduced by preparing carefully, researching the company, understanding where the interviewers come from, and the job role you are being interviewed for.
Improving your interview chances by dressing appropriately, maintaining positive body language, speaking clearly and enthusiastically to highlight your skills, suitability for the job and ability to integrate into the company’s culture will go a long way.
Key takeaways
- Research the company, interviewers and role you are applying for
- Look the part by dressing appropriately and offering positive body language during an interview
- Avoid listing all your skills and going through your entire CV
- Be friendly, but don’t talk too much or only about yourself. Ask questions about the company
- Speak clearly and positively outline your skills, experience and qualifications
- At the end of the interview, ask about the next stage of the interview process
Benjamin Salisbury is an experienced writer, editor and journalist who has worked for national newspapers, leading consumer websites like This Is Money and MoneySavingExpert.com, business analysts including Environment Analyst, AIM Group and written articles for professional bodies and financial companies. He covers news, personal finance, business, startups and property.
