How to start an interview?

Starting an interview effectively sets a positive tone for the conversation and helps establish a good first impression. Here’s how you can begin an interview on the right foot:

1. Greet the Interviewer Warmly

• Start with a confident and polite greeting: “Good morning/afternoon, it’s great to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.”
• If the interview is virtual, acknowledge the platform: “Thanks for setting up this virtual meeting, I’m excited to be here.”

2. Introduce Yourself Briefly

• Provide a quick, concise introduction: “I’m [Your Name], and I’ve been working in [Your Field] for [X] years. I’m particularly passionate about [mention relevant skills or projects].”
• Avoid going into too much detail here, as you’ll have more time to discuss your experience later.

3. Break the Ice (If Appropriate)

• Depending on the company’s culture or the flow of the conversation, consider a friendly comment to ease into the interview: “I’ve really been looking forward to this conversation. I’ve read so much about the innovative work your team is doing in [relevant area].”
• If you’ve been referred by someone or have mutual connections, mention it briefly: “I was referred by [person] who spoke highly of the culture and projects here.”

4. Clarify the Interview Format

• Ask about the structure of the interview to show you are prepared: “Before we dive in, could you let me know how you’d like to structure our conversation today? I’m happy to follow your lead.”
• This shows professionalism and a readiness to adapt to the interviewer’s style.

5. Express Enthusiasm

• Convey excitement about the opportunity: “I’ve been really impressed by the work your company is doing, and I’m excited to discuss how my skills in [relevant expertise] align with this role.”

Conclusion:

Starting the interview with a warm greeting, a brief introduction, and clear enthusiasm sets the right tone for a productive conversation. Adjust your approach based on the company’s culture and the format of the interview.

Sources:

• The Muse: How to Start a Job Interview
• Indeed: Interview Tips