Self-Introduction: How to Impress Interviewers in Under a Minute?
We all know first impressions are the best impressions. In an interview setting where hiring managers see one candidate after another, making a great first impression becomes more important than ever, especially if you want to stand out of the crowd.
While the way you carry yourself—from the way you’re dressed to your body language—certainly gives hiring managers a glimpse into the kind of candidate you are, the way you introduce yourself during the interview is what ultimately solidifies their first impression of you.
If you are wondering how you can strategically answer the question “Tell me more about yourself” to impress a hiring manager, here are X things your response should include.
Why Do Hiring Managers Ask You to Introduce Yourself?
When a hiring manager asks you to introduce yourself, they are not merely trying to start a conversation. Through your response, they hope to gauge whether you have what it takes to meet the demands of the role and be a good fit for the company.
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What Should Your Self-introduction Include?
An effective self-introduction should ideally consist of the following three parts:
Greetings & Pleasantries
When you enter the interview room, extend your hand for a handshake and make a quick introduction. Although the hiring manager may already have your resume in hand and know your name, introducing yourself to him/her and letting them how pleased you are to meet them will add a more personal touch. Be sure to smile, remain polite yet confident, and make eye contact.
Example: “Good morning! I’m Sherlyn Wong. It’s a pleasure to meet you!”
A Recount of Your Experience
Although the hiring manager may have your resume, chances are he or she cannot recall every single detail of your professional life. It is therefore best to highlight your expertise with an elevator pitch. Restate your title and briefly mention your experience and professional accomplishments with enthusiasm.
Example: “I’ve spent the last 3 years working as a Senior Customer Relations Specialist at a prolific technology startup based in Hong Kong. I have been promoted twice and have received several awards for my great performance. I enjoy resolving customer issues and ensuring that their trust in our company only grows, not falters.”
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The Reason You Are There
Last but not least, telling the hiring manager why exactly you are sitting in front of them, interviewing for a role at their company. Be genuine and tell them why you are interested in this role and company in particular. At the same time, do not criticize your current employer as any form of negativity you exhibit will reflect poorly on you.
Example: “Although I love my current role, I feel like I’m now ready for a more challenging one that will ultimately tap further into my potential. A friend of mine who works in the Finance Department of your company has told me a lot about how growth-oriented yet empathetic the workplace is, which is what ultimately attracted me to your company.”
It is always best to go into an interview prepared. Since you already know that “Tell me about yourself” is a question that will definitely pop up in one form or another, outlining the answer to the question either in your mind or on a piece of paper before the big day can help you articulate better in the situation and ultimately impress the hiring manager.
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