Two-Minute Summary

The job does not always go to the best candidate; it goes to the candidate who is best prepared for the interview. One way to sell yourself in the interview is to develop a two-minute summary of your background and qualifications. You are not likely to use it in two uninterrupted minutes, but you should use parts of it as you respond to questions or volunteer information.

Prepare a Summary of Your Qualifications

Prepare a two-minute statement on your education, training and work experience related to the job for which you are applying. If you can't tie yourself into the job for which you are applying, why should the employer hire you?

Stress Achievements Which are Unique

The employer likely knows where you went to school, what jobs you have held, etc. You need to add information on your accomplishments during those experiences. Did your campus organization have great success because of something you did?  What did you do in a past job which was of particular merit?

Slant Your Presentation to the Job in Question

Depending upon the job involved, vary the contents of your two-minute summary. Emphasize items which may be of particular relevance to the position for which you are interviewing. For one job, you may want to emphasize how well you marketed your ideas; for another, you may wish to demonstrate your computer skills.

You are Interesting, So Show It

Try to include one or two things that reflect your special interests to humanize your application and make you stand out from the other candidates. Were you a competitive swimmer? Did you volunteer on a political campaign? Have you studied in another country?

Tell What You Can Do Well

By emphasizing your strong points that are closely related to the job in question, you will help link yourself to the position and subtly persuade the employer to hire you.

Combine All Your Qualifications for the Job

Be sure to dip into all your background to cite courses, summer activities, volunteer and community projects, past employment, etc., so that you are able to pick experiences from each which have helped to prepare you for the job.

Show Your Knowledge of the Employer

As you present your qualifications, you should relate your attributes to the needs of the employer and thus demonstrate your special knowledge of the particular organization.