Q&A for How to Introduce Yourself at a Job Interview

You should just use your first and last name.

What will be the biggest challenge for me in this role? How will I be evaluated in this position? How often do evaluations occur? What is the company’s business planning for the next 2-5 years?

Yes, it is a good habit to do so and will give a good impression to the interviewer.

When you introduce yourself, remind the interviewer of your name preceded by your title (Mr., Ms., Mrs., etc.). Ask the interviewer for their name if you don't already know it. You will bring up your qualifications when he/she asks why are you a good fit for the company or what would you bring to a team. This will likely be the first question you are asked.

Just answer your questions honestly and clearly, and in a positive manner.

If you have a specific career goal in mind, you should go into detail about that and how far you hope to have come in 5 years. If you don't have a specific career goal in mind, you could just say that you hope to still be working in that field and advancing your knowledge.

You should go through the salary packages the company is offering (if possible), or look up average salaries for the line of work in your area. Then, you could say something like, "I understand that positions similar to this one pay in the range of $X to $Z in our region. With my experience, I would like to receive something in the range of $Y to $Z."

Say hello, your name, shake hands, then ask if the interviewer would like to see your resume. If the answer is yes, provide a copy.

Focus on what the position is. If you are interviewing for a server or a host, mention how you have an outgoing personality, are personable, and like to make conversation. If you are interviewing for BOH such as line cook or chef, mention your attention to detail; if you love to cook, mention that too! Tailor your answer to highlight your strengths that apply to the specific position.

Phrases you might use include: "The things I enjoy to do include....", or "My favourite pastimes include....". These are just some possible sentence openers you can use. Try to only mention sophisticated hobbies for a better impression, preferably matched to the job and the likely tasks and socializing the job will entail. Also, remember not to provide a shopping list; employers aren't really that interested in your hobbies but are more interested in what skills, teamwork and leadership the hobbies might have given you.