When you are going for your first interview, you will probably be jittery, thinking of the best way to handle the interview. Your introduction will make or mar your chances of being considered qualified for the job, even before the interview. So, you should handle it as a professional. So, we provide the solution to your nervousness on “how to introduce myself in the interview” which is the very first test before other relevant job interview questions and answers for fresh graduates.
Self-Introduction Tips Along With Examples:
This list of practical introduction tips while introducing yourself at the interview as fresher can help you overcome the first hurdle:
#1. Focus on Your Qualifications
Your initial goal is to catch the attention of your interviewer. Therefore, it is imperative that you make it concise and not unnecessarily wordy. One of the best ways to introduce yourself with this in mind is to focus on your qualifications. If you are a Computer Science graduate, list your academic qualifications.
Do you have some other certifications? Are you proficient in some programming languages or have special training in those languages? Why don’t you mention them during your introduction? If your qualification is sufficient enough to convince the interviewers that you are the right person for the job, you are already halfway towards getting it.
If you are a seasoned professional, don’t hesitate to include that in your introduction. This may require mentioning the years of experience in your chosen field and the experience you have garnered over the years through practical works that makes you the right person for the job.
#3. Use an attention-grabbing introduction
Another way you can catch the attention of your interviewers and leave a lasting impression is to use an attention-grabbing introduction. You may use something from your life’s personal experience or something related or something you read in a book. For instance, if reading is your hobby, you may first identify with a famous character and draw a correlation between you and the character by explaining your skills while discussing the character. If there is a strong relationship between you and the character, focus on that too. In a nutshell, find a common ground with your interviewer(s). That will help you break the ice and set yourself up for a wonderful interview.
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#4. Highlight aspects of your life that match the job
It is very important that your introduction is not an epistle but simple and positive. Rambling for long won’t win you the attention of your interviewers. Therefore, simply highlight some aspects of your life that have any bearing on the job.
For instance, you can talk about your education, accomplishments, hobbies, or anything else that has a bearing on the job you applied for. You shouldn’t forget to let the areas you want to highlight have a direct relevance on the interviewers too. Put in mind that an interview is not a test of your smartness or how likable you are. No, it is a test of your fitness for the available job offer in the company. So, think in advance how you can use some aspects of your life as a leverage to put yourself in the best position to win the job.
#5. Take advantage of “tell me about yourself”
You should expect this question whenever you go for a job interview. As a fresher, it is good that you tell about yourself in the best way you can. While something like “I’m Steven Jones, a graduate of Stanford University,” is good, it will be great if you can use the opportunity to market yourself to the interviewer. Share a story about yourself that will help you present yourself in an appealing manner to the interviewer.
Try to connect the dots: your past, you at the moment, and your future. Incorporate experiences and details that align with what the employer is really looking for in a potential employee.
While discussing your past, summarize your past experiences and how they have turned you into a better person you are today. Mention the behavior or skills you gained in the process. Even if it is a related experience from your membership of a local NGO or a group, don’t forget to mention this.
Next is your current situation. Summarize the skills you gained in your previous experience that you want to bring into the job if you get the job. Remember, the skill you want to discuss here must align with the skills needed by the interviewer.
It is equally important to give them an idea of what you want to contribute to the growth of the company if you eventually find yourself as a member of their staff. You should mention how excited you are for the opportunity to put your skills to use for the advancement of your employer. That’ll go a long way in helping the interviewer(s) have a permanent and positive impression of who you are and that will increase your chances of getting the job.
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#6. Consider the Greetings
You may have a good chance to greet your interviewers. This is where your introduction begins. Don’t feel shy or uncomfortable in their presence. That is a perfect opportunity to give a memorable introduction that will boost your chances of landing the job.
The rule of thumb is that you give your interviewers a polite and firm handshake. This should be short and devoid of an unusual sense of familiarity. When going for the handshake, ensure that you hand is not sweaty or wet. Interviewers don’t take kindly to wet or sweaty palms. So, before you extend a handshake to your interviewer(s), kindly take care of your hands. Keep them clean and dry before going for the interview.
Even if you are already at the place of the interview before you discover you are sweaty, perhaps due to anxiety or whatever reason, find a place to wash your hands and keep them clean and dry. During the interview proper, extend a handshake and simply mention your name. The interviewer may ask some questions that will afford you the opportunity to introduce yourself, including your skills and education.
You only have 30 seconds to impress your interviewer(s) and potential employers. If you don’t nail the introduction, you’ve given up the chance of getting the job. So, leverage your introduction and leave a permanent impression on their minds.
