How to Introduce Yourself in an Interview & Make a Lasting Impression

Introducing yourself in an interview may seem like a straightforward task, but it's a critical moment that can set the tone for the entire conversation. Your introduction is your first opportunity to make a lasting impression and showcase your professionalism, confidence, and suitability for the role.

Regardless of whether you’re introducing yourself in person or virtually, you have to find foolproof ways to make yourself stand out. By following the strategies outlined in this article, you'll be well-equipped to confidently introduce yourself and leave a memorable impression on interviewers. So, go ahead, polish your introduction, and let your professional journey shine through!

Read more: 8 Effective & Memorable Ways to Introduce Yourself Professionally (with Examples)

Why are introductions important in an interview?

Mastering the art of introducing yourself in interviews is a crucial skill that can significantly impact your success in landing your dream job. A strong introduction sets the stage for a successful interview by establishing rapport, showcasing your qualifications, and generating interest in your candidacy. Here's why a good introduction is crucial:

• It demonstrates your preparedness: A polished introduction demonstrates that you've done your homework and are well-prepared for the interview. It shows that you've thoughtfully considered your qualifications and how they align with the job requirements.

• It highlights your relevance: An effective introduction highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that make you a strong fit for the role. It gives the interviewer a clear understanding of why you're qualified and deserving of further consideration.

• It sets the tone: Your introduction sets the tone for the interview and influences the direction of the conversation. By confidently articulating your value proposition and professional goals, you can steer the interview towards topics that showcase your strengths and expertise.

• It establishes a connection: A compelling introduction creates a connection between you and the interviewer. It establishes rapport and fosters a sense of trust and mutual respect, which can positively impact the interviewer's perception of your candidacy.

Read more: Your Guide to Thoroughly Researching a Company in 2024

5 tips for making a good impression when introducing yourself

A well-crafted introduction can pique the interviewer's interest and create a positive perception of your candidacy from the outset. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

1. Be prepared

Before the interview, take the time to research the company, understand the job role, and identify key points from your resume that align with the job requirements. Tailor your introduction to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the position.

2. Be confident

Confidence is key when introducing yourself. Stand tall, make eye contact, and deliver your introduction with clarity and enthusiasm. Projecting confidence not only leaves a positive impression but also conveys your readiness and capability for the role.

3. Be concise

Keep your introduction brief and to the point. Aim to communicate your professional background, relevant qualifications, and career goals succinctly without overwhelming the interviewer with unnecessary details. A concise introduction shows that you respect the interviewer's time and can effectively communicate key information.

4. Be authentic

Authenticity is essential when introducing yourself. Share genuine insights into your background, experiences, and motivations that reflect your true personality and values. Avoid rehearsed or overly scripted introductions, as they can come across as insincere or disingenuous.

“If you’re too scripted, people will pick up on that and feel like you aren’t a real person or say the same thing to everyone just to get what you want. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t have a planned out elevator pitch—but show emotion, inflection, and be okay changing it for your audience,” says Whitney Kahn, a client director at Kelaca, a talent acquisition and advisory firm. 

5. Be engaging

Capture the interviewer's attention by infusing your introduction with enthusiasm and energy. Share anecdotes or examples that illustrate your achievements or strengths in a compelling and memorable way. Engaging storytelling can help you stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Read more: How to Memorably Introduce Yourself to a New Team: 10 Email Templates

7 points to include in your introduction in an interview

When introducing yourself in an interview, it's essential to highlight key points that demonstrate your qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role. Here are some key points to highlight:

1. Your name and current position: Start by introducing yourself with your name and current position or role. This sets the stage for the conversation and provides context about your professional background.

2. Relevant experience: Highlight your relevant experience and accomplishments that align with the job requirements. Discuss specific projects, achievements, or responsibilities that demonstrate your expertise and capability in the field.

3. Skills and strengths: Showcase your key skills, strengths, and attributes that make you well-suited for the role. Discuss any technical skills, soft skills, or unique strengths that set you apart from other candidates.

4. Career goals: Briefly mention your career goals and aspirations, emphasizing how they align with the opportunity at hand. Show enthusiasm for the role and the potential to contribute positively to the company's objectives.

5. Interest in the company: Express genuine interest in the company and the opportunity. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company's mission, values, and industry, and explain why you're excited about the prospect of joining their team.

6. Value proposition: Articulate your value proposition and how you can contribute to the company's success. Highlight any specific ways you can help solve their challenges, achieve their goals, or drive business growth.

7. Personal connection: If appropriate, establish a personal connection or rapport with the interviewer. This could be mentioning shared interests, experiences, or connections that help build a positive relationship.

Read more: What Not to Say in an Interview: These Answers Reveal Red Flags

Sample language to use when introducing yourself

While some interviews may have a specific question asking you to introduce yourself, others may require you to initiate the introduction yourself. Here are some common interview questions that provide an opportunity for self-introduction:

• “Tell me about yourself.”

• “Walk me through your resume.”

• “What brings you to apply for this position?”

• “Can you give me a brief overview of your professional background?”

• “Why are you interested in joining our company?”

Here are three templates you can use to craft your introduction.

Template #1

Template #2

Template #3