You may have heard people say that an interview is similar to a sales presentation. The only difference is that you're not trying to sell a product, you're trying to sell yourself. In other words, you are trying to make the hiring manager realize why they should hire you.
Because of this, you may want to think about turning your job interview into a sales presentation. A sales presentation interview, if you will. In a normal interview process, you want to communicate how well you match the job criteria and would fit in with the company. Most interviewers give candidates the chance to sell themselves. However, not all interviewers are skilled at interviewing. That means that sometimes you have to take the reins into your own hands.
You can't simply steal the interview away from the hiring manager. You have to know how you can respectfully give a sales presentation interview when the need arises. This means you have to understand what elements your presentation should have and how presenting yourself can help you overall.
How to Give a Presentation About Yourself in an Interview
During many interviews you're a passive participant. That means that you answer questions when asked, and ask questions when given the opportunity. The problem with that is that you might not get asked the right questions. Some interviewers are new and don't know what to ask. You need to be able to sell yourself even when not given the right opportunities.
You want your sales presentation interview to include:
Including all of these elements will ensure that the hiring manager will hear everything they need to about your skills and work ethic.
How This Type of Presentation Can Help
This type of sales presentation interview is useful for a number of reasons. First and as mentioned previously, it ensures that you get a chance to tell the interviewer your important strengths and experiences. It also helps you prepare. If you think about all of the elements mentioned previously, you'll be ready to answer a lot of interview questions. Preparing the presentation gets you ready to sell your skills.
Giving this type of presentation also allows you to become an active participant in the interview. This can show the hiring manager firsthand how you would give a presentation and act in a job situation. It also shows the interviewer your level of preparation. Not only did you research the company, but you took the time to make a unique presentation specifically addressed to this company. That shows you're prepared and eager to work for them.
A sales presentation interview is good for you and the hiring manager. It ensures that you get to put your best foot forward, and it gives them a behind-the-scenes look at your work ethic. Don't simply be a passive participant at your next job interview. Take the reins and present yourself in the best way possible with a sales presentation interview.
