How to Introduce Yourself in English at a Job Interview
Congratulations! You wrote a stunning resume that made you sound like the solution to every problem in the world, you wrote a fantastic cover letter that concisely stated who you are and what you’re looking for, and now you have the interview! That’s great, but it’s just the first step. The next challenge is making the right impression in person.
Tips to introduce yourself in English
There are many tips I can give you to help in the interview: a good firm handshake, repeating the interviewer’s name and using it so you remember it, speaking positively and in a friendly tone. What you really want to know, though, is: how do I practice introducing myself in English?
Rehearsing the language
Here’s the practice that will help you do this part confidently. Take a piece of paper, fold it into six parts, and write one of these words on each part:
- Name
- From
- Education
- Work
- Family
- Hobbies
Now write down up to six different ways to talk about each one.
Having different ways to say them means you’re not just memorizing one script. If you can, get a teacher or native English-speaking friend to check them for you.
Now it’s rehearsal time. Get in front of the mirror and rehearse as if you’re introducing yourself at an interview. When you feel comfortable, move on to introducing yourself to real people. Each time, say things differently and use different combinations so each attempt is a fresh speech.
Be careful with memorized scripts
My first assumption when a candidate is obviously reciting a memorized script is that their English level is low, so make your introduction natural and let it flow. A few red flags tell me you’re reciting a rehearsed speech:
- An unnatural beginning. Many people open their memorized introduction the same way every time. I say, “So, tell me a little about yourself,” and they reply, “Please allow me to introduce myself, my name is…” If the conversation doesn’t flow, it’s obviously rehearsed.
- Looking up at the ceiling while speaking. If you do this, you’re trying to remember your lines instead of having a natural conversation.
Practicing your introduction this way helps you prepare for the interview, and you can practice common interview questions the same way. Just keep the introduction smooth to make a strong first impression.
Good luck at your job interview in English!
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I introduce myself in English at a job interview?
How long should my self-introduction be?
How do I practice introducing myself in English?
What are common mistakes when introducing yourself?
Should I memorize my introduction word for word?
You are not alone to prepare for your job interview in English
Rehearsing your introduction, your elevator pitch, and typical interview questions with an experienced English teacher can make a real difference to the outcome. Your teacher helps you prepare answers that show a strong command of English and a convincing pitch for why you’re the right person for the job.
Whether your interview is already scheduled, even just a few days away, or you simply want to be ready, you can book job interview preparation and get started quickly. Live English has coached over 10,000 professionals since 2007 with native, HR-experienced teachers, and you can start with a free trial lesson, no credit card needed.
