How can I introduce myself in a business interview?
Imagine this:
You've applied for your dream job and received that amazing phone call to say you have been invited for an interview. Or perhaps, you've applied for your first job. In both situations, first impressions at an interview are going to help you get the job you want. First impressions are the way others see you when they meet you for the first time. Most people agree that the way you dress, speak and act are important in creating a good first impression. Also, studies have shown that people decide a lot about you in the few minutes of meeting; this is why introductions are very important.
The team at IQ Global have put together some of the main things you should learn to present a confident introduction in English:
Before you apply.
Aim to have good English speaking skills. Take advantage of everything IQ Global has to offer. For interesting things to talk about? Try our blogs and check out our YouTube channel too!
It's a fact that improving your general English will help you to communicate confidently in lots of situations. You have been chosen! What next?
Let’s have a look at ways to create a good first impression in an interview.
1. Dress to impress This is the first step in making a great impression. Employers are usually looking for people who look professional. This usually means wearing a smart suit, unless the dress code has stated 'smart casual'. A professional outfit is the best way to make a good first impression and introduce yourself without even having to say a word.
2. Arriving at reception
Start your good impression when you arrive at the venue. For example, you could say who you are and the interviewer's name:
“Good morning, my name is Peter Anderson. I'm here for an interview with Tom Jones at 3 p.m.”
You might also need to ask for a specific room:
“Good afternoon, I have an interview with Tom Jones, could you tell me where to go?”
3. Introducing yourself to the interviewer You have found the correct room and been called in to meet your interviewer. Remember to smile! A smile always helps if you want to make a good first impression. Also, as you shake hands, make eye contact because this shows confidence and respect. Tom Jones will already know who you are, so what do you say?
"Hello Mr Jones, it’s very nice to meet you.”
"Good afternoon Mr Jones, I'm very pleased to meet you."
4. Introducing yourself in an online interview We've looked at a face to face interview. But these days, online interviews are becoming very popular. In online interviews you must make your first impression on screen, so a good internet connection is essential. It's also a good idea to test your speakers and microphone are working before the interview, to avoid any problems when it starts!
Remember that online interviews are just as formal as face to face ones.
You might introduce yourself by saying something like:
“Good day Mrs Philips, thank you for this opportunity.”
“Hello Mrs Philips, I'm looking forward to talking with you today.”
4. How to describe yourself One of the first questions you might be asked is "Tell me about yourself?" This is the chance to talk about yourself, so what will you need?
You'll need to use past tenses to describe past experience and adjectives to describe your character and skills.
You can always start by naming your qualifications and then describe your work or university experience. You should also mention which skills make you the best choice for this job.
It is very important to introduce yourself in a friendly and professional way when you go into an interview. Making a good first impression is a wonderful way to make people remember you. At IQ Global, we design courses to give you the vocabulary for real-life situations, like an interview.
Did you know that we have an English Voice taster at each level, absolutely free? Just sign up to the website to access this amazing free content and try before you buy!
We hope you have enjoyed this blog. As always, you will progress more by reading, listening and practising your English so make sure you check out IQ Global for free resources and our YouTube channel. See you next time!
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