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9 Secrets to Selling Yourself in an Interview

Think of a job interview as a sales pitch. You’re selling your skills and experience to an employer who’s shopping for the right solution for their hiring needs. To make the sale (land the job), how can you prove you’re the best fit for the role?
Watch this webinar and Q&A, “9 Secrets to Selling Yourself in an Interview,” – sponsored by California State University Northridge to learn how to stand out, stay confident, and showcase your strengths like a seasoned pro.
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Our career pros cover how to sell yourself in an interview by:

Being a Detective

Before you even step into the interview room, do your research! Equip yourself with all the knowledge you can about the company and the position and use a variety of resources: the company website and social media pages, LinkedIn profiles, and recent news articles. Learn about your interviewers, the team you might be joining, and the company’s industry dynamics. Remember, the more informed you are, the easier it will be to sell yourself in an interview.

Perfecting Your Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a brief, impactful summary of who you are, what you bring to the table, and why you’re the right fit for the job. Aim for about 30–40 seconds, which roughly translates to 90 words or 10 sentences. The structure of your pitch should include a quick introduction, your key contributions or achievements, the benefits these bring, and an engaging conclusion that leaves the listener wanting more. Practice makes perfect, so rehearse until it feels natural!

Highlighting Your Unique Selling Points

Knowing how to sell yourself in an interview requires that you know what makes you different from all the rest. Identify your key strengths and accomplishments and how they make you uniquely qualified for the role. Whether it’s a rare combination of skills, an innovative strategy you implemented, or a project you spearheaded that brought substantial benefits to your previous employer, don’t hesitate to show off your achievements.

Emphasizing Soft Skills

Don’t underestimate the importance of soft skills. Leadership, collaboration, problem-solving, time management, and adaptability are valuable in virtually every job. Prepare examples of how you’ve demonstrated each of these skills in your career.

Showing Passion & Enthusiasm

Let your passion for the role shine through in the interview. Use expressive, positive language and share personal stories that highlight your excitement about the industry and the role.

Asking the Right Questions

When given the chance, be sure to ask thoughtful questions about the company, the role or any challenges the team might face. Following this advice for job interviews shows your interest and preparation, and it gives you a chance to gather valuable information.

 

When you’re ready for more of the best interview advice, check out our self-paced Interviewing Masterclass and schedule an interview prep session with a Career Advisor.

By registering for this webinar, you may receive follow-up marketing communications from iHire and their partners.

Speakers

Laura Wilhelm

Laura Nauta
iHire Manager of Education Partnerships

Laura Nauta is the Manager of Education Partnerships at iHire, joining during the WorkInSports and iHire merger in April 2021. In addition to her work at iHire, Laura is also an adjunct professor at Upper Iowa University where she develops and teaches a master’s-level sport sales class.

Lori Cole

Lori Cole
iHire Brand Ambassador & Content Creator

Lori Cole is a Certified Career Coach and Advisor, Brand Ambassador, and Content Creator with over 20 years of experience in staffing and recruiting in the online world. She’s always looking for ways to make life easier for iHire’s job seekers.