A good self introduction speech at an interview can make, or break, your chances of getting the job. So, plan your introduction speech before your interview.
But don’t overprepare it, or it comes across as stiff when you say it. You also need to remember that you don’t know exactly what to expect when you walk into an interview situation, so you may need to ad lib what you planned to say so that your self-introduction suits the context of the interview.
A perfect self introduction speech should last about 60 to 90 seconds. It might not sound long, but you can say a lot about yourself during your self introduction.
It’s wise to keep it brief because you don’t want to bore the panel. Interviews often have time limits and if you spend too much time on your self-introduction, you won’t get to answer the other questions as completely as you would have liked.
A self introduction speech should include your name, age, where you are from, what qualifications and character traits you have that suit the job, and a brief thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed. You can include other details and exclude some of these, depending on the context of the interview.
Examples of self introduction speeches for an external interview for your first job after graduation
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1“Good day. I am Jerry Jones and I am from _________, California.
Since graduating from high school, I have been attending college part-time studying nursing. Unfortunately, I cannot afford to attend classes full-time so I need a job to help fund my studies and I’ve decided that I want to do something related to my schooling.
I thought the opportunity to work as a part-time administration clerk at the hospital would be a perfect opportunity.
I am a very ambitious person and I know the value of hard work and dedication. I hope that you will consider my application and look forward to answering any questions you may have.”
2“Good day. My name is Mandy Jacobs.
I’ve just graduated from college where I studied journalism. I achieved good grades during my studies and was also an active participant in the college’s media program, including television and print reporting.
My interest and passion for journalism go back to my high school career. I went to high school in (city) which is in Colorado. My English teacher encouraged me to try out for the school newspaper because he believed I had a talent for writing.
After seeing my first article published, I was hooked, and I knew that there was no other career for me. I have a proven track record of working well under pressure and adhering to deadlines.
I hope that I can be given a chance to cut my teeth at a publication such as yours”
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3“Good day. My name is Ellen Davis.
I am 20 years old. I took some time off after high school to figure out what career path I wanted to follow, as I was undecided at the time. I’ve held several jobs over the year and have included references from a few of my employers.
I have come to the realization that I want to work with animals and I have applied to _______ College to study to become a veterinary nurse. In the meantime, I want to get started learning the practical side of the trade which is why I was excited when I saw you had an opening for a veterinary assistant.
I know that it will require hard work, and I don’t have much experience in this field, but you won’t regret taking a chance on me”
Examples of self introduction speeches for an external interview for a higher-level job
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4“Good day. Thank you for inviting me to this interview. I am honored to be here. My name is Debbie Ellis. I’m 31 years old and from Iowa.
I left my hometown after graduating high school to attend college at ______________. However, my family is still in Iowa, and I’m very close to them. After studying Pharmaceutical Science at college, I decided to pursue a career in sales.
I believe my educational background gives me the confidence and competence to sell pharmaceutical products and I know that I now have enough experience in the field to seek a managerial position; my years of sales experience have honed my people and leadership skills.
That is why I applied for this job and hope to be considered for it.”
5“Good day. My name is William Kennedy. I am a qualified accountant, having obtained my degree from _________________ after graduating from high school in Illinois.
I am 32 years old and have been working as a junior accountant since completing my qualifications and passing the board exams in ______. I have worked with a variety of clients during my time at _______________ and have found each experience rewarding.
I have learned a lot during my time as a junior accountant and believe that I am ready for the rigors and challenges of a more senior position.
I’m hoping that your company can offer me this opportunity as I know that I would be an asset to you owing to my committed work ethic and meticulous nature.”
6“Good day. My name is Amy Harris. Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today.
I am 28 years old and a recent law school graduate. I did my undergraduate studies at ______________ and completed my law degree at ______________. During my law studies, I volunteered at various clinics aimed at giving the less fortunate access to legal advice.
I assisted with the drawing up of wills and negotiated on my clients’ behalf with moneylenders to whom they were indebted. I am passionate about getting clients the best service from the justice system.
I have worked as a junior associate with ___________________ for the last 4 years in criminal defense and am looking forward to the chance to work as an associate at your firm as I feel I am ready for the additional responsibility and challenge.”
