HTML Preview Introduction Letter To Employer page number 1.
Handout #57 - Updated August 2016 1
Introducing Yourself To An Employer
How to impress employers with your introduction:
Show confidence.
Have a good firm handshake and a sincere smile.
Speak clearly and slowly in a friendly and pleasant manner.
Have a positive attitude; employers are looking for enthusiastic candidates who show genuine
interest in their company and job opportunities.
Maintain eye contact.
Remember that 90% of communication is non-verbal. How you dress, how you stand, your tone of
voice, eye contact, handshake, smile, level of enthusiasm, are all important.
Use the formula:
Name
Class (senior, junior, sophomore)
Major
Opportunities that you are seeking
Relevant experience (work, internship,
volunteer work)
Highlights of skills and strengths
Knowledge of the company
Two good examples of how to introduce yourself:
“Hi, my name is ….. I’m very pleased to meet you. I am a _____ (major) and I will be graduating in
_____. I am very interested in your ______ position. Can you tell me a little bit more about it? or
“Hi, my name is …. It’s very nice to meet you. I am a ____ (major) and I will be graduating in ____. I am
very interested in positions that will take advantage of my skills in ____, ____, and ____. Do you have any
positions that are seeking these skills? (Important tip: If you say you hold a particular skill, make sure you
give an example of that skill from previous experience.)
After the introduction:
Ask questions to show you are interested and demonstrate you have researched the employer and/or
position.
Give examples of your skills, qualifications -- be able to talk about what you have to offer them.
Maintain your level of enthusiasm and interest – if the employer walks away from the conversation
not sure of your interest, you have just lost your chance at an interview.
How to end your conversation and leave a positive lasting impression:
Be sure to “close” the conversation strongly.
Tell them you are very interested in working for their organization and/or the position they are
offering and let them know you would really appreciate the opportunity to interview for the position.
Ask for their business card so you can send them a thank you and follow up as needed.
Offer another firm handshake and thank the interviewer for taking the time to talk with you.
320.308.2151
Centennial Hall 215
www.stcloudstate.edu/careercenter
AVOID:
Asking what the company does
Asking if the company has any jobs available
Stating that you will be willing to do anything at
the company
Bringing up negatives about previous
experience, employer, etc.