30 Seconds or Less...

Just the thought of being interviewed can make some students’ skin crawl. But talking about yourself should be easy right? After all, no one knows all you have to offer a potential employer better than you. An interview or networking opportunity should be looked at as a privilege. It’s a chance to show yourself off and be confident you’re exactly what that employer is looking for. So you’re wondering how to do all that. You’ve got 30 seconds.

I was once told by a PR professional that 30 seconds can change everything. After all the introductions and questions, you have half a minute to say why you’re the best for the job. Sounds challenging right? It is. I tried this exercise and failed miserably. But after reading "Interview introductions: how to perfect your personal pitch", I had a much better understanding of what to include and what to leave out of my personal pitch.

Focus on:

• Review. Go over what you think are the most stand-out things about yourself. Make a list of work and personal experiences that make you unique.

• Make it beneficial. Research the organization you’re applying to and tailor your pitch to their needs. Keep in mind you’re there to help them.

• Practice. Rehearse how you’re going to sum yourself up. Look in the mirror and say it out loud. It may seem silly at first but watching and hearing yourself will help you see whether or not you’re on the right track.

• Keep it natural. The last thing you want to do is sound like you’re reading from a script you have engraved in your memory. Smile, be yourself, and most importantly believe in what you say.

Leave out:

• Clichés. Avoid sounding fake by using general descriptions about yourself. Rather than saying, “I’m determined” tell the employer exactly what drives you and what you hope to accomplish for the organization.

• Unrelated experience. Since your resume details all you’ve done take this time to tell the employer what experience relates to their company and how it will benefit them.

• Phony promises. Chances are you won’t be able to just waltz into a company and solve all their problems. You don’t want to seem desperate and most employers will see through empty promises.

In such a competitive field, we are constantly selling ourselves. Now is the time to practice your personal pitch and focus on what makes you unique. It may make all the difference.

This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Tara Innamorato.