How your previous experience (whether it be other jobs, education, or volunteer programs) may have prepared you for this specific job. What skills you have in general, but more specifically those that are strongest and those that are most relevant to the job at hand. Instances where you’ve solved problems in the past that demonstrate your ability to succeed under stress.
“I graduated fourth in my class, with honors, from Such-and-Such University. ” “I was a manager at Such-and-Such Company for x-number of years, where I was responsible for a staff of x-amount of people. ” “I’m a self-motivated freelance writer with credits in these publications . . . ” “I’m the president of my student body, for which I’ve organized these events and fundraisers . . . ”
“I’m quick to identify areas that need improvement. At my former job, I implemented a new system for work-flow that increased our output despite a shrinking workforce and increasing workloads. ” “I’m a great multi-tasker. I went back to school and graduated at the top of my class while working full-time and raising a child as a single parent at the same time. ” “I take leadership roles very seriously. I’ve been the captain of my sports team for the last two years as well as the president of these school clubs. ”
“I care very deeply about the environment. Being able to participate in this outreach program and educate as many other people as possible about the dangers we face is extremely important to me. ” “I’m a voracious reader. I’m really excited about working in a bookstore, sharing recommendations with customers and colleagues, and expanding my own horizons. ” “I believe very strongly in giving back to the community, and although I wouldn’t be saving lives like a doctor or nurse, being able to help this hospital run as efficiently as possible in the kitchen would still be very fulfilling to me. ”
“How does the average workday/workweek break down here, schedule-wise?” “Is there anything I could do to improve communication between our two departments?” “Would you find it more helpful if I turn in my signed invoices for the week all at once or one by one as I sign them?”
Be sure to do this even if–or especially if–you’re in a supervisory role in a new setting. Even if you have plenty of experience in your particular field, expect to be unfamiliar with odd details that are unique to this new company. Earn respect from your team by showing respect for their years of service and knowledge.
Practice this honesty with workers under your supervision as well. Gain their respect by freely admitting that you too are capable of mistakes. If they know you screwed up but hear you deny it, they’ll trust you less.
“Hi, I’m ___, the birthday boy’s best friend. ” “Hi, I’m ___. Your daughter’s in the same class as my son. ” “Hi, I’m ___. Your brother and I work in the same office. ”
If you’re meeting a new study-partner, keep the focus on your schoolwork and school-life in general. If you’re meeting people for the first time after moving to a new area, play up your role as the recent transplant experiencing culture shock. If a mutual friend has invited you (as well as a bunch of other friends of theirs who are die-hard fans) to a sports game that you’re unfamiliar with, stay true to your outsider status instead of pretending to be an expert.
If the conversation turns to your job, tell them where you work and maybe a very general description of what you do, while leaving any fancy job titles unmentioned. [13] X Research source If they recognize you as an All-State athlete, play down your own accomplishment and credit your team and/or coach for making it at all possible. [14] X Research source If someone else mentions how you rushed into a burning building last week to save a pet cat, show or feign embarrassment and then switch topics rather than gloat over your own bravery.
If you have trouble remembering names (especially if you’re being introduced to many people at once), fess up and apologize that you’ll probably forget them by the end of the night. If they know this, they’re more likely to repeat their names for your benefit later on. If you’re uncomfortable at large parties or gatherings, say as much if it’s crimping your style. Let the other person know that your best self is better seen in more intimate settings. If you’re on a first date and haven’t dated for a while (or at all), share this with your date. Assure them that any odd behavior on your part is due to a lack of experience, and not a reflection on them personally.
“I never thought of it that way. I’ll have to watch that movie again with that fan theory in mind. " “That sounds like a pretty stressful vacation. Would you go back there again if you had the chance?” “The same thing happened to me once, or almost the same thing. Only in my case . . . "
