Mastering Self-Promotion in Interviews

How to overcome the awkwardness of talking about yourself.

“I’m uncomfortable talking about myself in interviews.”

“It feels like I am bragging about my skills.”

“I don’t know how to articulate my value.”

I often hear from clients and job seekers who struggle with talking about themselves in interviews.  Whether it feels boastful, strange, or squeamish to them, it’s a challenge that many face.  This is especially true for introverts or those with social anxiety.  Interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience and if you find yourself in this predicament, you aren’t alone. 

Job seekers must recognize the importance of self-promotion in a competitive job market and understand that it can be done with the right balance of confidence, humility, and authenticity using the tips outlined below.

Lastly, it’s important to mention that out of all the times in your life when it is acceptable to promote and talk about yourself, a job interview is the ideal setting in which to do it.  Be your cheerleader and go in with a winning mindset.

Advocacy does not equal bragging.

In a job interview, you are advocating for your candidacy as well as your skills, experience, and accomplishments.  You’re essentially saying to a potential employer “You need XYZ experience, and I have that.  Here are my qualifications and here is how I will solve your problems.” 

Advocating for yourself is crucial because no one else is going to do it for you – and no one knows your background and qualifications better than you.  So, stand tall, look them in the eye, and wow them with your career successes.  

Provide concrete examples.

Instead of making broad statements about your skills, provide specific examples of how you applied them in achieving your goals. Sharing your real-life wins not only highlights your abilities but also makes your achievements more tangible and relatable.

P.S.  Add numbers (i.e., success metrics - #, $, %) to your examples where possible. Doing so will not only substantiate your successes but it will also grab the employer’s attention and build a compelling case for your candidacy.

Emphasize collaboration.

Talk about how teamwork played a role in your accomplishments. In other words, share the credit.  By highlighting collaboration, trust, and effective communication, you are demonstrating humility and appreciation for other’s contributions.

Emphasize growth and learning.

Describe instances where you proactively sought feedback, engaged in learning opportunities, or took on challenges to grow in your role. Demonstrating a commitment to personal and professional development can counterbalance the awkwardness of self-promotion.

Be genuine.

Authenticity goes a long way not only in life, but in interviews — so speak genuinely about your experiences, passions, and goals. When your responses are sincere and true to you, it becomes easier for interviewers to connect with you on a human level.

Practice.

The more you practice talking about yourself, the more comfortable you will become and the less awkward it will feel. So, practice in front of a mirror or ask a friend to help you and do it until you can speak with confidence and a steadfast belief in yourself.

You GOT this!

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Words to inspire:

“Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” — Albert Einstein

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