Ask a Recruiter is an ongoing series that covers topics both large and small facing students who are looking for their first job or internship. The process of finding job or internship can be a rollercoaster of ups and downs. This article focuses on how to talk about yourself
This series is written by Rachel Graham, a University and Diversity Recruiter at Lenovo who specializes in North American opportunities.
Have a question for Rachel about starting your career, interviewing or finding an internship that’s right for you? Add your question in the comments section.
How do I balance talking about myself and the role during interviews?
A common trend I'm seeing in interviews, especially for large, well-known companies, is that candidates interviewing speak more about their interest in the company and don't focus as much on the role they're interviewing for. Hiring managers want to hear why someone wants to work on their team, for the role they have open.
You can absolutely talk about what you like about the company, but make sure to show why you are the best fit for that specific role as well. Saying things like "I'm just looking to get my foot in the door here" can signal to managers that you're wanting any job there, then will leave the team quickly to get a role you're more interested in at the company.
Help the hiring managers see you in their open position, as well as show that you're a good culture fit for the company overall!
What questions do you have for recruiters or what do you wish you knew?
Leave your question in a comment below!
Want more expert advice for your job/internship hunt? Click here to view past articles.
About Rachel:
Rachel graduated from the University of North Carolina – Wilmington in May 2019 and began her career at Lenovo soon after. She is a Raleigh, North Carolina native who spends her free time fostering kittens, doing home DIYs and enjoying time with friends and family.