How to Show Off Your Industry Skills in a Job Interview

If you have plenty of industry experience and skills, you should highlight them during an interview. However, there is a big difference between playing up your industry knowledge and skills, and just showing off. Use these tips to help you make a great impression by highlighting your skills in the right way.< 

Mention Your Skills in the Job Interview

One of the easiest ways to make sure the interviewer is aware of your relevant industry experience and skills is to politely mention them when they are relevant. For example, if your interviewer asks you what your capabilities are, you can take the opportunity to talk about the specifics of your skills and experience. Provide brief descriptions of your past responsibilities, and make sure you include all relevant experience within your resume as well.

Show, Don't Tell

Showing and telling are two very different things. Instead of simply stating what your skills are, show them with actionable words and proof to back them up. You can incorporate how many years you have spent working in your industry, touch upon your duties and responsibilities, and briefly summarize your successful work or projects. By providing evidence for your skills, you are reassuring the interviewer of your competency for the position that you are being interviewed for.

Use Insider Language

All industries have their own unique phrases and terminology. You should attempt to incorporate industry-specific terminology when relevant during your interview. An easy way to show off your insider knowledge is by talking about how this knowledge applies to the work you've done at previous positions. This is an excellent opportunity to let your skills and knowledge within your field shine. You can be sure that your interviewer will be impressed.

Ask Questions

Asking questions at the end of an interview is a must. It shows the interviewer that you are serious about being considered for the position.  Try to ask questions that pertain to your skills or that show your deep knowledge of the industry, and of the company you're applying to in particular. For example, you might ask a question about a business process, or about the company culture. Show that you're interested, curious, and knowledgeable, and your chances of getting hired will rise.

Be Comfortable During the Interview

Interviews can be nerve-racking. But if you're overly nervous, you'll make your interviewer nervous as well, and this won't work in your favor. Make sure to try to relax and calm your nerves prior to the interview. Focus on your experience and what you bring to the table, and project confidence with a firm handshake, strong eye contact, and good posture. Be sure to listen closely to the questions that are asked, and trust your preparation.  By staying calm and collected, you'll improve your chances of getting a second interview--and landing the job!

Showing off your skills in a job interview is important, but there is a right and a wrong way to go about doing it. For more great tips on successful interviewing, and for good (and bad) answers to some of the most commonly-asked interview questions for a variety of industries, visit LiveCareer's Interview Tips & Advice page. 

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