5 Tips to sell yourself effectively in an interview

How to sell yourself effectively in an interview?

The recruitment arena is changing and it’s time to look into other ways than the CV to stand out amongst the crowd and show what you have to offer, both in the interview, and in the application process.

Education

Just because employers are generally opting to hire those with more experience doesn’t mean that you can’t gain those qualifications that you’ve always wanted to achieve. However, bear in mind that there are other ways to become knowledgeable without a degree. Remember, it is just as important who you know as what you know. Try going to relevant trade shows to the industry you want to break into. You will meet relevant people for potential jobs, as well as develop your industry knowledge. It also shows initiative if this is brought up in an interview.

Go the extra mile

A lot of positions available aren’t necessarily looking for someone who has years of experience. They want someone who can adapt to the company’s way of working, and who can bring a fresh approach. So if you’re not quite the whole package, but are on the right track, emphasise this. You will be cheaper to hire than someone with more experience, but with proven interest through work experience, the employer can vouch that one day you can grow into a vital employee. Potential is the key word here. Show them what yours is.

Confidence

With preparation comes confidence. It creates a good first impression but can also leave you less worried: an aspect of interviewing that many fail on through nerves. Don’t waste your time explaining how beneficial the position can be to you. The interviewer already knows that from your presence at the interview. Instead, give details on where your skills can best fit into their business, this is particulaly true when applying for engineering jobs. This will appeal to their commercial mind and answer the question they will be thinking: “What can this person offer my business over others?” – This fearless attitude could bag you a job.

Manage expectations

Ensure that you have a good understanding of the business you want to work for. For example, if you are interviewing for a large corporation, you may need to tick a few boxes before being considered, whereas in a smaller business you may be expected to take on more tasks and have better flexibility. Tailor your CV around this, and ensure that you ask relevant questions based on your research of the job.

Work experience

If for absolutely no other reason, work experience can give you something to discuss in an interview. However, there are numerous reasons you should be trying to find relevant jobs to get to your dream career. You can show your enthusiasm and give real life examples of what tasks you have undertaken. The fact that you have gone out of your way – and in many cases, without pay – in order to further your career speaks volumes, and this is what employers want: people who want to grow and learn within their company, this is ideal for work within the maritime jobs market.

At the end of the day, you must ask yourself how much you want the job. If you want it, it’s worth doing your research as thoroughly as possible. It doesn’t matter whether it’s through education, through a relevant employment history, or through the internet. With this knowledge behind you, you can sell yourself effectively to become a valued member of the team you want to join.


Drs. Christiaan Janssens MBA
Executive Coach CJ Coaching
CRO Akwa Wellness