Selling yourself at interview

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Whether you’re gearing up for your first job interview or looking to level up in your career, it's important to know how to sell yourself. Everyone knows that interviews can be nerve-wracking but, with the right mindset and some solid preparation, you can walk in confidently and ready to impress.


Here are seven top tips.

1. Know Your Strengths

First things first, you’ve got to know what you bring to the table. This isn’t just about your qualifications or past experience; it’s about understanding your strengths. What makes you unique?

Are you a creative problem-solver? A natural leader? Maybe you’re great at staying calm under pressure?

Whatever it is, identify these strengths and think about how they relate to the job you’re applying for.

Once you’ve nailed down your strengths, practise talking about them. You want to be able to explain, clearly and confidently, how your skills can benefit the company.

This is where examples come in handy. Think of times in the past where you’ve demonstrated these strengths, whether in school projects, part-time jobs, or even volunteer work. The more specific you can be, the better.

2. Research the Company

This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. Before your interview, spend some time researching the company.

Understand their values, their mission, and their culture. Look up recent news articles, check out their social media, and familiarize yourself with their products or services.

Why is this important? Because you want to show the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in their company, not just in getting a job. Plus, it’ll help you tailor your answers to align with what they’re looking for.

For example, if a company prides itself on innovation, you can highlight your creativity and how you’ve used it in the past to solve problems or generate new ideas.

3. Prepare for Common Questions

There are some questions that almost always come up in interviews. Questions like, “Tell me about yourself,” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” and “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Preparing for these in advance will help you avoid being caught off guard.

For the “Tell me about yourself” question, have a brief elevator pitch ready. Focus on your relevant experience and how it’s prepared you for this role. Keep it concise. Around one or two minutes should do it.

When discussing strengths and weaknesses, be honest but strategic. Choose a real weakness, but also talk about the steps you’re taking to improve it. This shows self-awareness and a willingness to grow, both of which are qualities employers value.

4. Show Enthusiasm

Energy and enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates. Even if you’re nervous, make sure to smile, maintain eye contact, and speak with confidence. Show that you’re excited about the opportunity to join their team. Employers want to hire people who are genuinely interested in the role and eager to contribute.

One way to demonstrate enthusiasm is by asking thoughtful questions. This not only shows that you’ve done your homework but also that you’re seriously considering how you can fit into the company.

Avoid asking questions that could be easily answered by a quick Google search. Instead, ask about the team you’ll be working with, the company’s future goals, or what a typical day might look like in this role.

5. Dress the Part

First impressions matter, and the way you dress can say a lot about you. While the dress code can vary depending on the company, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

If you’re unsure, do a bit of research or ask someone who works there about the dress code.

Even if the company is known for its casual vibe, make sure your outfit is clean, neat, and professional. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about showing that you respect the opportunity and are taking the interview seriously.

6. Practice, Practice, Practice

Like anything else, the more you practise, the better you’ll perform. Do mock interviews with a friend or family member, or even in front of a mirror. Pay attention to your body language, tone of voice, and how you structure your answers.

If possible, record yourself during these practice sessions. Watching the playback can help you spot any nervous habits, like fidgeting or using filler words like “um” or “like”.

The goal is to come across as calm, confident, and articulate.

7. Follow Up

After the interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email. It’s a small gesture that can leave a big impression. Keep it short and sweet—thank the interviewer for their time, reiterate your interest in the role, and briefly mention something specific you discussed during the interview. This helps keep you top of mind as they make their decision.


Selling yourself in an interview doesn’t mean pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about showcasing the best version of yourself—your skills, your experiences, and your potential. By knowing your strengths, researching the company, preparing for common questions, and practising your delivery, you’ll be well on your way to nailing that interview. So, take a deep breath, believe in yourself, and go show them why you’re the perfect fit for the job.