How to Sell Yourself in Interviews
Communicating your value clearly and confidently during an interview is essential.
In fact, LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends shows that over 80% of employers prioritize strong communication skills.
Your technical expertise matters, but without the right presentation, you risk blending in instead of standing out.
I help jobseekers land their next role every day, I’ve seen firsthand what truly makes a difference.
Here’s some guidance I consistently share with candidates looking to stand out and land their ideal role:
Get Specific: If you’ve achieved something big in a previous role, get specific and quantify it where you can. Don’t just say you increased efficiency—say you reduced month-end closing time by 30%. Concrete achievements speak louder than generic claims.
Know the Role Inside Out: Before stepping into an interview, it’s not enough just to glance at the job description. Dig deeper to understand the company’s current financial landscape. Are they focusing on cost reduction, revenue growth, compliance, or process automation? Look into their recent news, annual reports, or investor presentations if available and identify their core challenges and priorities. From there you can emphasize how your specific skills and experience will help them meet those goals. For example, if they’re struggling with lengthy month-end closes, highlight how you’ve streamlined reporting processes in the past. Show them you’re already thinking like a member of their team, not just another candidate.
Highlight Transferable Skills: 72% of hiring managers prioritize adaptability and problem-solving abilities over purely technical skills. So, don’t just talk about the reports you created or the budgets you managed—share examples of how you resolved unexpected issues, streamlined processes, or tackled unfamiliar systems. Show that when faced with challenges, you quickly adapt, find solutions, and keep the business moving forward.
Curate Your Achievements: If you’ve got a wealth of experience, don’t overwhelm the interviewer. Select two or three standout accomplishments that align best with the position’s needs and let those stories do the talking.
Practice Professional Storytelling: Instead of listing your accomplishments, frame them as stories with a clear beginning, middle, and end. This approach makes you more memorable.
Try implementing these steps in your next interview, you’ll stand out as a well-rounded professional who can communicate their impact. Good luck!
If you’re looking to make a move in your career, reach out to me - I’m happy to help