giving a presentation for a job interview

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Complete Guide For Preparing Job Interview Presentation With Examples

Learn to Excel at your interviews with this complete guide on preparing Job interview presentations. It follows the important concepts of the benefits and importance of interview presentations. This detailed guide explains how to create the best job interview presentations. After reading this blog, you will pass all your interviews with flying colors.

Making a presentation during an interview can be intimidating! Still, it’s a terrific method for you to highlight your abilities, personality, and suitability for the position and an excellent approach for employers to learn more about your expertise and knowledge.

Your ability to effectively communicate essential information and the quality of your design can frequently make the difference between a failed and successful presentation. No matter how solid your research or ideas are, excessive slides, packed content, and unreadable fonts might turn interviewers off. However, developing an eye-catching presentation can support your expertise and give you more confidence. It is a skill you should invest time in learning.

In today’s blog, we will go through all the components you should include in a presentation for interview and how to deliver them efficiently.

What Is A Job Interview Presentation?

Before seeing what you should include in a presentation for interview, let us discuss what is an interview PowerPoint presentation: 

As your career advances, especially to an executive position, you might be required to give a presentation during an interview. These kinds of presentations help the hiring manager in doing employee performance reviews and let them decide whether you’re worthy of the position. 

You may have to assemble a business plan and present your ideas, finish a task and demonstrate how you approached it, conduct research and submit your findings to a panel, or even give a presentation about why you would be an excellent fit for the position. All these presentations and tasks can be classified as interview presentations as they will convey your knowledge about the industry, organizational skills, communication skills, attention to detail, creativity, and more.

Giving presentations is something that many people find scary, especially when they’re concerned about an interview. However, you might have to do it at some point in your career, so the sooner you learn how to do it, the better. So, in the next section, we will see what an employer expects to see in your presentation for interview. 

What Is the Employer Looking for in a presentation for interview?

The employer searches for a candidate who will stand out throughout the hiring process. They are looking for someone who will blend in with the business culture and who is knowledgeable about their profession. Another method to determine if candidates are qualified for the position is to ask them to give a presentation.

During the interview, your employer might notice the following crucial competencies:

• Your written and vocal communication style
• The way you interact with your audience
• Your profession and industry expertise
• Your capacity to adhere to a brief
• Your capacity for organization
• Your meticulousness

When an employer witnesses a blind presentation, they can additionally note:

• Your ability to function under pressure
• How imaginative you are

In the end, the employer is also determining whether you fulfill the requirements listed in the job description, so make sure to review it while you prepare.

What to include in a job interview presentation template

Here are a few components that you should consider while preparing a powerpoint presentation for interview:

Presentation type and topic

Choose a presentation style before you start getting ready for a presentation. It will impact the kind of template you make. For a virtual slideshow presentation, write a simple slide breakdown or a script for an oral presentation. The technologies used during your interview also influence your presentations. Consider contacting a recruiting manager with any queries before making any preparations if you need clarification on what they anticipate. When given a topic for your presentation, you can plan your study accordingly. Alternatively, suppose you have the freedom to select your topic. In that case, it’s advisable to focus on themes that ignite your passion and align with your expertise, ensuring you can effectively convey your message quickly.

Make a shorter presentation with tons of words, even if you want to impress your potential boss by showing how much effort you put in. Keep it simple with short slides that look good and convey your message. Aim for no more than ten slides, and make everything brief. It guarantees that the material you present will stick in the recruiter’s mind and make you stand out from the other applicants. Some recruiters might even allot a certain amount of time for your presentation; be sure to account for this and stay within it to avoid giving the impression that you lack time management abilities.

Include research findings and quotes from prominent figures in the industry in your presentation if you are performing research for it. It exhibits your business awareness and lends authority to your ideas.

Brand Style

Use the presentation and style of the company. It will demonstrate your diligence in research and draw attention to your brand awareness.

How To Prepare A Presentation For A Job Interview

To prepare a PowerPoint presentation for interview, follow these five steps:

1. Analyze the business

Be sure to research the company you are applying to before submitting your application. By exploring the business, you can incorporate crucial details into your presentation. To learn more about the company’s offerings, application procedure, market size, performance, leadership, and governance, visit their website. Examine news stories, features, and press releases recently covered by the media. If the business has a social media account, review the most recent updates to see the preferred tone and any new advancements.

2. Recognize your target audience

The audience for your interview will probably vary depending on the job you are applying for. It is essential to know who will be at your presentation, their departments, roles, and what they’re good at. For example, suppose you’re applying for human resources. In that case, your presentation will differ from someone applying for a sales or executive role. Hence, it will be more effective if you customize your presentation for the audience. Make a PowerPoint presentation that interests and is relevant to the audience’s technical and non-technical segments.

3. Get notes ready

Make notes on the company or sector you will present for. It’s crucial to be ready to discuss the topic you’ll be given during the interview. The interviewer can gauge your understanding of the more significant business the company works in, so include current industry news in your notes.

4. Adopt a rational framework

Make sure that the format of your presentation is well-organized. An organized presentation makes it easier for your audience to follow along and stay interested. A strong finish, exciting material, and an engaging introduction define a successful presentation. A strong opening grabs the audience’s attention, and your engaging facts persuade them that you are a standout contender.

5. Work on your delivery

Once your presentation is ready, practice delivering it. You can also catch presenting mistakes with proper practice. You can get prepared by using a camera to record yourself. You can also present in front of your friends and solicit their opinions on what went well and what still needs improvement.

How to Deliver Your Presentation For Interview

When delivering a PowerPoint presentation for interview, follow these tips:

• Seek advice
• Recognize your target
• Identify a central idea
• Tell an engaging tale
• Take a strategic stance
• Adopt a constructive mindset
• Get comfortable delivering
• Communicate nonverbally
• Conclude powerfully

1. Seek advice

Ask the recruiting manager for any clarification you might need before you start working on your presentation. Read and review all the directions regarding the presentation first. Ask the hiring team if they would prefer to hear about a particular topic or if you should develop your own if the instructions do not specify one. Next, determine how long you can expect to speak with the hiring team. You can show that you are detail-oriented, receptive to criticism, and have practical communication skills by asking for help.

2. Recognise your target

Find out how knowledgeable the audience is so that you can communicate at a level that is understandable and sophisticated. To better understand the audience and adjust your discussion to your audience’s knowledge, experience, and interests, think about asking for names and positions. Obtaining all your information will help you make your discussion more effective and relevant, raising your candidature rating.

3. Identify a central idea

Be careful to choose a focal point when deciding on a presentation topic. Ensure the audience understands your presentation’s main point by organizing it around a single idea. Reduce the points in your presentation to make it seem comprehensive, well-thought-out, and professionally prepared.

4. Tell an engaging tale

Some of the best ways to organize a presentation are through conventional storytelling techniques , whether you’re talking about a finished project or a highly technical subject. Using a proven method, you can make your message stick in people’s minds and grab their attention. To tell an engaging story, take the following actions:

• Describe the issue.
• Describe the significance of the issue.
• Talk about the difficulties you encountered while trying to find the solution.
• Finish with a powerful impact and resolution.

5. Take a strategic stance

Without being too commercial, use your presentation to establish yourself as the protagonist of your own tale. When feasible, use evidence to support your claims; otherwise, highlight your best traits and the most pertinent experience in your presentation. Seize the chance to show that you are a candidate who can quickly help the organization achieve essential goals.

6. Adopt a constructive mindset

Throughout your presentation, maintain an optimistic attitude while discussing your challenges. Consider emphasizing how you improved a problematic situation or discussing your efforts to overcome difficult circumstances. When appropriate, project an image of being proactive and emphasize your steps to resolve a problem. Let the information and data lead your presentation so the interviewers can grasp your thought processes.

7. Get comfortable delivering

To ensure you leave a positive first impression on the recruiting team:

• Practice your presentation multiple times in advance.
• Try presenting without consulting your notes or reading your script after a few practice sessions.
• Keep track of the time during each practice session to determine the perfect pace.
• Choose the main themes you want to discuss as you review each presentation segment to help it sound more natural and prevent it from coming across as too prepared.

8. Communicate non-verbally

Practice confidently expressing yourself while standing up and speaking. Face the audience directly, have a cheerful look, and smile naturally. To make points, keep your shoulders back and utilize small hand motions. Keep eye contact throughout your job interview PowerPoint presentation, particularly when making a crucial point.

9. Conclude powerfully

Create a memorable conclusion to ensure your presentation is as compelling as possible. A broad, open-ended question that came up throughout your study could be an excellent way to wrap up. A one- to three-word key takeaway that helps your audience recall the presentation’s primary point can also be used to wrap up. Integrating your message with an intriguing quotation next to the organization’s mission, vision, and goals is another effective wrap-up technique. In closing, raise any queries to show you are receptive to criticism and conversation.

Helpful tips For the Job interview Presentation

Here are some tips that you can use during the presentation for interview: 

1. Create the outline

When requested to give a presentation at an interview, you should have enough time to organize it according to a predetermined outline. If the interviewer still needs to provide you with all the necessary information, ensure you know how the process will work out regarding the topic, time limits, available multimedia devices, and participants. Remember that adhering to the brief is a necessary component of the evaluation process, so if you’re requested to do the task in less than or equal to 10 minutes, stay within that amount of time. After you’ve confirmed the nature of the interview, you should begin preparing a presentation that will wow the audience and showcase your qualifications for the post.

2. Establish a framework

Developing a presentation with a coherent framework facilitates the communication of your ideas. A well-considered framework conveys your thoughts intelligibly and concisely rather than jumping from one notion to another. Naturally, an introduction is the ideal place to begin. Set the scene immediately and emphasize how your solution makes a real difference. Next, compose a story using informative statistics and first-hand accounts. It should demonstrate how your skills and expertise help the business achieve its objectives.

3. Improve the visual assistance

Your audience shouldn’t just be able to read the slides from your presentation. They must endorse what you’re saying to keep their attention on you. It entails using fewer wordy slides and increasing the number of images to illustrate your arguments better.

4. Practice For The Job Interview Presentation

Although it may seem obvious, people must practice their presentations long enough. Even if you have a better idea than the other interviewees, there’s a considerable possibility the hiring panel will only understand the relevance of your speech if you convey it well. To find the ideal balance, practice with friends or family and ask for feedback on your areas of weakness.

5. Get ready to adjust

It would be best if you rehearsed to project a powerful presence during your presentation. Still, the hiring panel may try to knock you off balance. Consider potential question topics when you draft your presentation. It might assist you in preparing answers that demonstrate that you have thought through the issue.

6. Pay attention to the little things

Once the creation of your presentation is complete, focus on fine-tuning the minor elements. We’ve already discussed the need to speak deliberately. Still, to project confidence, you should also remember to make eye contact and display open body language. Your presentation will go more smoothly if you are more prepared. Ensure you arrive early on the interview day so you can set up your presentation. Ensure your tech gadgets function properly, bring extra batteries for your remote controls, and allow enough time for a final evaluation.

Lastly, you can ensure you deliver a standout presentation showcasing your most substantial skill sets by giving your job interview presentation more thought and preparation.

Job Interview Presentation Examples:

Here are some job interview presentation examples of a presentation template to assess a candidate’s ability to teach by having them give thesis statements:

What Is A thesis statement?

Introduction.

Brad Cooper

As a seasoned academic writer, I plan to teach English in middle schools. A thesis statement is a crucial sentence that sums up your paper’s central topic. I will define a thesis statement today and give you an example to see what one may look like in an academic work.

Defining a thesis statement

A thesis statement is a sentence that exposes the reader to the primary idea of a paper or essay in the opening paragraph. Your thesis statement is one of the most crucial sentences in your work and one of the first things the reader will see, but it may also be one of the most difficult to compose! 

An example of a thesis statement

It is an illustration of a thesis statement for a literary devices-related English paper: The central premise of this novel is that hardship can lead to triumph with hard effort and perseverance; the author presents this idea through metaphors and foreshadowing.

As I explained in my presentation today, a thesis statement is a paper’s central notion. Since it’s an essential component of the writing process, young children must know this subject as soon as possible. I appreciate your attention to my presentation. Do you have any questions concerning my credentials or the information I provided? I would be happy to help.

Job Interview Presentation Templates

SlideUpLift is well-known for its vast collection of expertly designed PowerPoint templates covering a wide range of subjects and businesses. One notable category within its repertoire is the Job Interview Presentations section. Here, you can find templates explicitly tailored for interview scenarios, enabling seamless presentations during job interviews such as job interview presentation examples. These templates come in various styles, such as making dynamic employee profiles and using the STAR system to highlight skills. 

Interview Resume Presentation PowerPoint Template

The Interview Resume Presentation PowerPoint Template aims to help people with different professional backgrounds increase their chances of getting hired. This template consists of 11 slides, including all the relevant information that a job seeker should include in their resume to seek an excellent job. Job seekers, interns or students, professionals looking for a promotion, independent contractors, consultants, etc. can all use it.

Presentation Agenda PowerPoint Template

The Presentation Agenda PowerPoint template is valuable for incorporating a structured agenda into your job interview presentation. The Agenda Presentation template features four dedicated agendas, providing a clear, organized layout highlighting key topics. The slide can be included in your presentation, allowing you to communicate the issues to be covered effectively. Whether you are outlining the interview process, presenting key points, or discussing specific aspects, this template ensures a professional and visually appealing agenda for a presentation.

Star Job Interview Presentation Template

The Star Interview PowerPoint template adopts a structured format featuring four blocks: Situation, Task, Action, and Results. 

This template is tailored for interviews or presentations using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Results) method to assess or communicate experiences. Each block provides dedicated space to articulate the specific Situation, Task at hand, Actions taken, and Results achieved.

30 60 90 Day Plan for Interview PowerPoint Template

A 30 60 90 Day Plan for an interview presentation is a structured outline that illustrates your intentions and proposed actions during the first three months of your employment in a new role. It’s a tool used to demonstrate your understanding of the position, your strategic thinking, and your ability to set goals and achieve them.

Animated Job Interview Presentation PowerPoint Template

This is another amazing resume PowerPoint template for you. The unique thing is that it comes with animations. These Animations make your presentation more exciting and attractive for the audience. Download it and customize it as per your requirements. Add your details, and you are good to go.

With all the information and tips in this detailed article, you can end your worries and prepare for your job interview presentation like a pro . You now possess all the specific presenting advice needed to ace the interview. If the design aspect overwhelms you, peruse our vast collection of PowerPoint Presentation templates and select particular components (such as data charts, shapes, and diagrams) to give your presentation the best visual appeal.

How long should my job interview presentation be?

Aim for a concise presentation, typically lasting 5-10 minutes, to maintain audience engagement.

What's the best way to conclude my job interview presentation?

The best way to conclude your job interview presentation is by summarizing key points, expressing enthusiasm for the role, and opening the floor for any questions from the interview panel.

What should be the key focus of my job interview presentation?

Prioritize showcasing your skills and experiences and how they align with the job requirements and company values.

How can I handle questions during or after the presentation for interview?

Be prepared for questions by anticipating potential inquiries related to your content, experiences, or the role.

How can SlideUpLift benefit me in preparing a job interview presentation?

SlideUpLift provides a wide array of professionally designed PowerPoint templates, including specific templates for job interview presentations. This resource can significantly help you create a standout and impactful interview pitch.

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Interview presentation preparation tips

The interview presentation is becoming more common in the hiring process. It gives employers a better overview of your general aptitude and provides you with an opportunity to showcase your skills, knowledge, and experience. But how should you prepare for an interview presentation? What should you include? What if it goes wrong?

4th Jun, 2021

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What is an interview presentation?

As you progress further in your career, particularly to executive level, you may be asked to give a presentation for interview. Perhaps you’ve been asked to conduct research and present your findings to a panel, complete a task and show how you approached it, put together a business plan and present your ideas, or even give a presentation about yourself and how you would excel in the role. Whatever you are presenting about, how you approach it should remain the same.

Many people find giving presentations intimidating, especially during an interview when you’re already nervous, but it’s something that you may have to do throughout your career – the sooner you tackle this skill, the better.

Why are you being asked to do a presentation for a job interview?

Many employers opt for a presentation-style interview as it gives a better overview of your general aptitude when compared to, or combined with, a traditional question and answer interview, like a competency-based interview . The interviewer is looking for proof that you can do the job and that you possess the required skills and traits.

Additionally, if you put time and effort into your presentation, this will highlight to the hiring manager that you are committed to the role and enthusiastic about joining the company. How many times have you been asked in an interview ‘Why do you want this position?’ or ‘What is it about this role that attracted you to it?’. They want to know how much you want this position, rather than just any position.

How to prepare a presentation for an interview

Where do you start? What should you include? The presentation is your opportunity to showcase your knowledge, experience, and communication skills as well as your organisational skills and diligence – so start with the job description and person specification and pick out key skills and traits that the company is looking for. Then you can prepare your presentation around what they want to see.

For example, if the business is looking for someone creative, pay great attention to the style of your presentation. If it is looking for someone who is a confident public speaker, spend more time perfecting your speech. If attention to detail is paramount in the role, double and triple check your spelling and grammar. This is a great starting point and gives you something to build your presentation around.

What to include in an interview presentation

Although you may be tempted to go all out and show your potential employer that you are committed to the job, don’t fall into the trap of creating a 30-slide presentation with reams of text. Try to keep each slide short and significant and aim for no more than 10 slides. This ensures the information you deliver is memorable and will help you to stand out from other interviewees. Some interviewers may even give you a specific amount of time for your presentation, make sure you factor this in and don’t go over the time limit – otherwise you may appear to have poor time management skills.

Another way to make sure your presentation engages hiring managers is to include a range of formats to help you illustrate your points. Include graphs, statistics, diagrams, video clips, and images to help break up large volumes of text and maintain the attention of the interviewers.

If you are conducting research as part of your presentation, include quotes from industry leaders and/or research pieces. This gives your points authority and demonstrates your commercial awareness.

You should also try to incorporate the company’s colours, fonts, or style in your presentation. This will show that you have done your research and highlights your brand awareness.

Finally, check your spelling and grammar thoroughly! Small mistakes can really undermine the content of your presentation.

Tips for presenting at the interview

Presenting is a skill which can be learnt. Even if you are not a confident public speaker, the more you practice, the better you will become.

Present confidently and enthusiastically - Remember to speak clearly, make eye contact, and use open body language.

Don’t just read the slides - There is nothing worse than watching a presentation where the presenter has their back to you the whole time just reading reams of text from their PowerPoint notes.

Try not to talk too fast - Make sure you breathe, and take your time.

Practice, practice, practice - Ensure you are well rehearsed so that you are familiar with the structure of your presentation and are able to deliver it smoothly. If possible, practice your presentation with family members or friends to get used to speaking in front of other people.

Arrive early to give yourself time to set up the presentation and settle any nerves - Get comfortable with PowerPoint and presentation equipment. Make sure you know how to work any projectors, screens, or remote controls before you begin to avoid any awkward stumbles or pauses.

Stay within the allocated time - If you have not been given guidance on length, aim for the 10-minute mark. Time your presentation when you are practising to make sure it will fit within the time limit. If you need to reduce the content of your presentation, cut out the least relevant or weakest points.

Be prepared to adapt - You may have practised your presentation in a certain way, but the interviewer might not respond accordingly. Be prepared to be interrupted by questions or further discussion unexpectedly.

Breathe and try to enjoy it - By relaxing, you will find yourself presenting better and, if you enjoy it, your interviewers will respond to that and be better engaged with what you are saying.

Tips for keeping the interview presentation simple

It can take a lot of work to make something simple, yet effective, and when it comes to interview presentations less is often more. Keep it short - As previously mentioned, try to keep each slide short and aim for no more than 10 slides in total.

One idea per slide - To make sure your presentation is clear and concise, each slide should represent a different point/idea you want to make.

Stick to the important bits only - If you don’t think it’s important enough to spend time on, don’t have it on your slide.

Use the 4x6 rule - Aim for either four bullet points with six words per bullet point, or six bullet points with four words per bullet point. This way, your slides won’t look too busy.

Minimal text - Instead of writing paragraphs of text, use bullet points and a minimum font size of 24.

What's better for your interview presentation? Cue cards or presenting from memory?

Should you use cue cards in your presentation for interview or try to present from memory?

The answer to this question depends on what you feel most comfortable doing. If you find that having cue cards will help ease your nerves and ensure that you don’t forget your speech, then there is nothing wrong with that.

However, if you choose to use cue cards, you should not rely too heavily on them. You shouldn’t stand in front of the interviewers and look down at the cards continuously, neither should you write your whole speech out on the cards and read directly from them. They are cue cards for a reason and should only give you prompts on what to talk about. If your interview presentation has a lot of statistics on, using cue cards to remember the figures if you are unable to memorise them all is an excellent strategy.

What to do when things go wrong

You can practice your interview presentation as much as possible, but something may still go wrong and it’s important to be prepared for this eventuality. Here are some things that could go wrong and how to deal with them: Technical issues

There is not a lot you can do to prevent technical issues, especially if you are using someone else’s computer. But there are ways you can prepare just in case. Ensuring you have access to multiple sources of your presentation is key. Email the file to yourself and the recruiter, bring a copy on a USB stick and printed handouts. This way you are covered if anything goes wrong with the file you’re intending to use.

Your mind goes blank

Even those who are pros at presenting can sometimes lose their train of thought and find that their mind goes blank. The key here is not to panic. If possible, take a bottle or glass of water in with you and use this chance to take a sip, breathe and try to relax. Then look at your presentation slide or your cue cards and pick up where you left off. It may be helpful to repeat the last point you made as saying it out loud could spark your memory for your next point.

You are asked a question that you don’t know how to respond to

If you have allotted time at the end of your presentation to allow the interviewer to ask any questions (which is recommended), don’t worry if someone asks a question that you are not sure on. It may be that the interviewer is looking to see how you respond to a challenging question, so how you react is often more important than the answer itself.

If you do not understand the question, ask the person to explain. There is nothing wrong with doing this and shows more confidence than just saying that you don’t know. If you understand the question but are not sure of the answer, then admit that you don’t have the full answer, provide what information you do have, and offer to come back to them at a later date with a complete answer.

10-minute interview presentation template

Below is a presentation for interview example. Use this as a baseline and adapt or reorder where appropriate based on the task you have been set by the interviewer. Slide 1 - Introduction – Reiterate the objectives you have been set and lay out the structure of your presentation so that the interviewers know what to expect. Slide 2 - About you – Detail your professional experience, skills and working style. Slide 3 - Company history – Give a brief summary of the company history, any milestones or awards. Slides 4-7 - Answering the brief – Give your responses to questions you’ve been asked to answer, the benefits and limitations of your suggestions. Slide 8 - Question and answers – Include a slide titled ‘questions and answers’ as a cue to pause for interaction. Slide 9 - Conclusion – Sum up the key points you have made, reach a decision, and explain your reasoning. Slide 10 - Personal achievements – End the interview on a high with a brief slide highlighting achievements that show how you will succeed in the role.

For more information on how to ace your interview, download our free guide, ‘ Getting the best from your interview: Candidate interview tips and tricks ’, or contact your local recruitment specialist today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A job interview presentation is all about selling yourself. Be confident, speak clearly, and make eye contact with the interviewer. Don’t be afraid to promote yourself and highlight your achievements. This is your chance to really show the interviewer that you are capable and have the necessary skills to do the job. By putting time and effort into your presentation, you can show them how dedicated you are to the role and the company. For more information on how to ace your interview, download our free guide, ‘ Getting the best from your interview: Candidate interview tips and tricks ’.

Using cue cards can support you with your interview presentation, as long as you use them for their intended purpose. Do not write your entire presentation for interview out on cards and read from them word for word or constantly hold them in your hand and fail to make eye contact with the interviewer. Use them only to prompt you or for remembering key facts and figures. For more tips, read our article on ‘interview tips & questions’ .

If you have been sent a presentation brief that you do not understand – don’t panic. If there are words that you are not sure about, do some research and try your best to figure out what the organisation is asking of you. If you are still unsure, you could ask your recruiter as they may have seen this brief before and can give you an idea. If you are dealing directly with the hiring manager, then it may be worth checking that your interpretation of the brief is correct.

It is better to ask the question than present on something completely different to what the interviewer has asked. However, instead of saying to them that you don’t understand the brief and leaving it at that, tell them your understanding of it and ask if this is correct. This will show that even though you are unsure, you have taken the time to try to come to a conclusion yourself before asking for help. Download our free interviewing guide for more tips and advice.

How long your job interview presentation should last depends on what guidance you have been given. Thoroughly read the brief, as the recruiter or hiring manager may have specified the length of time you have for your presentation. If they haven’t given any indication, you should aim for 10 minutes, including time for questions and answers. For more tips on interviewing, read our article on ‘interview tips & questions’ .

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Eight tips on how to make your interview presentation shine

Excellent communication is a key skill in any role. To find the best candidates, employers may ask you to present your ideas

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Today, 89% of global professionals believe that communicating with clarity directly impacts their career and income , so with the high number of candidates vying for jobs, it is more important than ever to feel confident about sharing or pitching ideas – particularly in pressurised interview scenarios.

As you face the interview stage, it’s increasingly likely that an employer will ask you to visualise your achievements and skill set in the form of a live presentation. Sales, marketing, public relations and teaching are just some of the careers which often request that candidates prepare a presentation to deliver live during the job interview. While you should not expect to give a presentation for entry-level jobs, they are becoming a staple in more senior roles across industries. If presenting and clear communication are part of the job role, there is a strong chance that you may be asked to provide a flavour of what you can do.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of presenting at a job interview, and even a little intimidated. Creating a dynamic and engaging presentation that effectively communicates your ideas is often easier said than done, and this is a frequent frustration shared by jobseekers when applying for roles. It is not just sales professionals that are required to update their CVs and make them more visually compelling and memorable. Presentations are necessary for a wide range of industries, including fashion, graphic design, education and financial services.

Regardless of the job you are applying for, candidates are keen to make their presentations both memorable and engaging. However, many often fall at the first hurdle and overdo it by creating an extraneous deck of long static slides. But don’t fear – there is a wide range of alternatives now available that can help even those with limited technological skills get their point across and dazzle their interviewer.

Here are eight expert tips on how to make your ideas shine through preparing and delivering a world class presentation:

1. Brainstorm without borders

From the outset, it is important to set aside time for brainstorming. Running your ideas past a friend or partner is a useful way to gain a fresh perspective, but you may find you need some additional help from elsewhere along the way. Many cloud based presentation software packages allow real time collaboration between users online, so ideas can be shared instantly and inspiration can be gained from the work of others across the globe.

2. Choose the right technology

It is important that you choose a mode of presentation that you can operate with ease. You can make the ideas flow better by keeping the work in a platform or programme that guides the entire process, from preparation through to presentation. However, make sure you take care with appearances – there are a range of tools that are certain to impress more than the tried and tested traditional style of PowerPoint, and different programmes reflect different skills.

For example, PowToon is a free animated presentation software that may be best put to the test by animators or graphic designers. Another option is Prezi, an online tool which offers a 3D open canvas for presentations. For a more simplified version of PowerPoint, Google Drive Presentation allows multiple users to view or collaborate on the document online.

3. Have a clear structure

Structure can go a long way to boost your confidence and ensure you give a stellar performance. Make sure from the outset that you have a clear understanding of each of the relevant sections of the presentation. Each part of the presentation should naturally follow from the other. Introduce the subject: tell the audience what your presentation is about. Explain the points you wish to convey. End with a summary of your points.

4. Rehearse

Rehearsing is essential to feeling energetic on the day. Find what works best for you: speaking out loud to yourself in the shower, snatching up presentation tactics from Ted videos or familiarising yourself with your presentation over and over. Keep it short and sweet. Remember to check with your interviewer if they’d prefer to keep the presentation open to questions anytime, or save them until the end.

5. Learn to channel nervous energy

Be wary of becoming too animated – waving hands can distract from your idea. The key is to relax but stay alert. Remaining calm, composed and confident in your delivery will help keep your audience’s attention on the content.

6. Talk naturally

Reading words off static slides is nobody’s idea of an exciting presentation. Prepare in advance and talk to your audience in a conversational (but not too chatty) tone. Even though the floor is yours, think of the presentation as a two-way conversation as your interviewer is following your chain of ideas.

7. Make eye contact

Connecting with your audience is essential to retain their interest. Once you start making eye contact, it will also make the presentation more comfortable for you – you can feel that you are truly part of an exchange of ideas.

8. Answer questions honestly and concisely

This is your chance to gauge the interest of your interviewer and explore knowledge and ideas that you could not fit into the presentation. However, if you don’t know the answer to a question, it is perfectly fine and even appreciated to say so, and offer to provide further information at a later date.

The key to effectively communicating ideas is translating them into a narrative that captivates or persuades your audience. For inspiration, go online and learn from others who do this well. There is no harm in using online resources to collaborate on a global scale.

Drew Banks is head of international at Prezi .

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How To Give a Successful Presentation During an Interview

Learn how to prepare for and ace a job interview presentation

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Why Employers Request Presentations

What interviewers will be evaluating, how to prepare for an interview presentation, tips for a successful presentation, how to ace a video interview presentation.

Madeleine Burry writes about careers and job searching. She covers topics around career changes, job searching, and returning from maternity leave.

For certain roles at some companies, the interview process may require that candidates give a presentation. Even confident speakers can feel some nerves about presenting in an interview setting. It can be a challenge to showcase your ability in front of a prospective employer, regardless of how much experience you have.

The keys to giving strong, effective presentations that wow interviewers are planning and practice.

Review advice on when employers request presentations from candidates for employment, tips for preparing for in-person and video presentations, and advice on how to ace your presentation during a job interview.

Interviewers are most interested in seeing you present if presentation skills are a key part of the role.

“The goal of having candidates present in interviews is to make sure whoever is hired can speak eloquently,” Melissa Hirsch wrote in an email to The Balance. Hirsch is the principal recruiter at Betts, a nationwide technology and recruiting services firm. 

Presentations are most often requested of candidates seeking roles in sales or leadership, according to Leslie Schmidt, vice president of recruiting at Betts, via an email to The Balance. 

Depending on the role, other factors may be at play. For sales roles, for instance, it’s typical to ask candidates to present on the company’s product.

“When a company asks a candidate to demo their current product, they are listening to their communication style, sales process, how well they qualify and close, and overall selling strategy,” Schmidt said.

Interviewers may also be looking for how well you understand the company’s product and the common pain points for customers. 

If you’re applying for a leadership role, you may be asked to share your plans for your first three months on the job, Schmidt said. If that’s the case, be specific. Talk about exactly what you would do, and how. 

Giving a presentation on top of a job interview may feel overwhelming. It may help to remember that, in a way, the job interview itself is also a presentation.

“You are presenting yourself as the product to be ‘sold’ to the hiring manager,” Tom Cobin wrote in an email to The Balance. Cobin is the founder of DynamiCoach, which offers coaching and workshops to improve public speaking and presentation skills.

Follow these strategies to prepare for and ace an interview presentation. 

 During presentations, interviewers will be keeping an eye on your communication skills and organizational skills.

Communication Skills

Interviewers will want to see if you are well-spoken and can share information clearly.

“Depending on the job you're applying for, they may be interested in analyzing whether or not you communicate in a way that will connect with the appropriate level of individuals (for example, senior leadership),” said Lisa Nichols, career and leadership consultant and CEO of Love Your Niche, LLC, in an email interview with The Balance.

Organizational Skills

They’re also looking to see how you organize and share information. Interviewers will be looking for a well-organized presentation and assessing how you use visuals and handouts and get participants involved. 

As with thinking through answers to common interview questions, a bit of preparation will help you feel at ease during a presentation. Try these strategies below. 

Confirm What’s Expected

Before you fire up your PowerPoint, make sure you have a good sense of what the hiring manager is looking to see.

“Most companies are more than happy to provide extra information and answer questions about the presentation prior to your interview, but make sure you can’t find the answer yourself first,” Schmidt said. 

Before you begin preparing, you should have a sense of the following presentation details:

• Audience (e.g., whether the presentation is geared toward C-suite executives, clients, or another group)

Keep It Short 

You’ll want to adhere to any time guidelines set by the hiring manager. As a general rule, if the timeline is uncertain, keep it short.  And remember to leave time for questions at the end.

“If an interviewer says you’ll be given 20 minutes to present with extra time for Q&A at the end, then your presentation shouldn’t be 10 minutes or 30,” Schmidt said. 

In terms of slides, 10 is a good maximum, with an intro slide, agenda slide, and a final slide with the next steps or Q&A.

Go ahead and share your slides with peers for feedback, too.

“The more eyes and feedback you can get, the better” Hirsch said.

Don’t Procrastinate

If you’re pulling an all-nighter to get it done, that might show. Spend sufficient time, and focus on the project.

“Hiring managers can tell when there was a lack of effort and time put into a presentation,” Schmidt said. 

Keep in mind that multiple candidates may be presenting on the same topic, making it easy for hiring managers to compare your work to others. Investing time in your presentation will help you make the best impression.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Once you’ve planned your presentation and perfected your slides, you’ll want to practice. The goal is to be very familiar with the material—without memorizing it, according to Cobin. That way, you won’t stumble if you forget something, but your delivery will still be natural: Memorizing can lead to a stiff, stilted presentation. To get comfortable, try rehearsing in front of a mirror or recording yourself.

Take a look at some additional tips for giving a strong interview presentation. 

Make Slides Attractive

Your slides should look good. Here are some tips for creating effective supporting visuals: 

• Don’t use too much text : Aim for a few bullet points. “The goal is to engage your audience and make it interactive," Hirsch said. "Nobody wants to be talked at for 30 minutes, and nobody wants to read a 10-paragraph essay that's a size 6 font either."
• Don’t read your slides : Instead of reading slides out loud, you should use them as backup, including data, tips, and charts or summarizing your points, Nichols said. Consider printing out copies of your presentation for the interviewers, as well.
• Add color and logos : But don’t overdo it. Your slides shouldn't look busy or distracting.
• Add your contact information : This will help with follow-ups.
• Check for errors—then check again : A typo on a big projector screen is particularly embarrassing. Review for accuracy, spelling, and grammar. Consider having someone else proofread, too.

Visual materials should support—not detract or distract from—your core message and any supporting points you’re trying to make.

Be Clear and Succinct 

A presentation should show off your verbal communication skills. That means you don’t want to ramble or be poorly organized in how you share information. Limit filler words, such as “um,” “like,” and “you know.”

Aim to make your presentation interesting and engaging.

“Connect with interviewers on a human level. If you start with a stat or a story that grabs their attention and makes it interesting for them, you will be more memorable,” Nichols said.

Then, be clear on the main points you want to communicate. 

Be Mindful of Your Nonverbal Presence 

You’ll want to seem engaged, poised, and knowledgeable during a presentation. To that end, pay attention to your tone of voice, facial expressions, gestures, and other nonverbal body language. 

It’s not uncommon for interviews to occur over video. That’s true for interview presentations, too. Here are some tips for performing well if your presentation is occurring on a video screen: 

• Get in front of a good background : You’ll want to be well lit (but not backlit), with a professional background. Remove kids, pets, and other distractions from the room beforehand. 
• Master the technology before the presentation : Make sure you’re comfortable sharing your screen, for instance.
• Make eye contact : Look at the camera to make eye contact while also monitoring the faces of your audience. Avoid looking at another monitor for your notes or the presentation deck. That can be confusing for your interviewer. 
• Stay high energy : It’s a bit harder to be engaged during a video presentation (whether you’re giving one or in the audience). Still, make sure to keep your energy high. “If you can visualize yourself standing in front of a live audience while you speak, it can help you feel more energized,” Schmidt said.

Key Takeaways

• Make sure your presentation meets the interviewer’s guidelines for topic and length. If you’re not sure, check with the hiring manager.
• Prepare your presentation well in advance, and practice it beforehand.
• Consider getting feedback from peers, friends, or family on both your presentation and your slides.

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• The Secret to Crushing Your Job Interview Presentation
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• 27th October 2023

During your job search and as a part of your interview process, it’s not uncommon to have to give an interview presentation. 

Here at Dynamic, the professionals we help with their job search regularly give interview presentations. And we offer support throughout this process: From helping them to understand what the interviewer is looking for from the presentation, to actually helping with the content of their presentations.

We’re here to help you answer the questions you’ve been wondering like: What exactly is an interview presentation? What should you include? And what to do when your interview presentation doesn’t quite go as planned.

What is an Interview Presentation?

At any stage in your career you may be asked to give an interview presentation. This interview will likely test you on one or more of the skills that are most important to the role.

The interview presentation you are asked to give can vary largely, depending on the role you are applying for and the industry you work in.

For example, a Solutions Architect may have to give an interview presentation that shows their technical ability, but also highlighting communication and presentation skills. 

Meanwhile someone earlier in their career at a Network Engineer level, will likely have to give a presentation that focuses purely on their technical ability: Because that is what is most important to the employer when hiring at this level.

But the core approach and things to remember about giving an interview presentation

Why Are You Being Asked to Give an Interview Presentation?

When an employer asks you to give a presentation in your interview, it is typically to gain a greater understanding of your skills or experience. These will be the skills or experience that are most important to the role, and can offer you insight into what will be expected of you in the role.

The questions you are asked in an interview are obviously important, and it’s always a good idea to research the typical interview questions that you are likely to face . 

But the interview presentation can be just as, and is likely more important than, the questions you answer: And is typically where many potential candidates are rejected from the interview process.

The interview presentation will also help you to understand whether the job is one that would be right for you. The presentation task will likely be something you will be doing in the role everyday, or something that is of crucial importance. So the interview presentation task can give you more insight into the role than you can get from asking questions in the interview.

The 5 Things Your Job Interview Presentation Needs to Show

Before we get into the practical tips for your interview presentation, there are a few essential things that your presentation must show:

1. That you understood the task and the job you’ll be doing.

All too often we see candidates who have rushed into an interview task, without really taking the time to understand the task or understand what the employer was really looking to see. 

Because it’s feedback we hear from the employers we work with all the time. It’s crucial to make sure you understand what the employer wants to see from your task.

2. Your technical experience and expertise.

Pretty obvious, but pretty important. If you’re given a technical task, you need to show that you’re an expert at what you’ve been asked. This can mean going back and doing some revision around this area, to refresh your memory and prepare yourself for any questions you might face.

3. That you can handle yourself in a high-pressure situation.

Being cool under pressure is an essential skill and is an attractive quality in almost every job. Conversely, while someone may be great on paper, if they can’t articulate themselves or crumble under pressure, that can be a huge red flag to employers.

4. You can communicate well with clients and colleagues.

Communication is key, especially in a position where you’ll be working closely with clients or colleagues. And if you can’t articulate yourself effectively in a presentation setting, employers will be hesitant to put you in a role where you will be presenting to clients.

5. That you really want the job.

If you’re in the interview, then it’s fairly obvious that you want the job you’re interviewing for. But one of the things that employers will look for is who really wants the job.

Putting in the effort, preparing for any questions they may have and rehearsing your presentation, will show the interviewer that you’re serious about the opportunity.

13 Interview Presentation Tips and Steps to Success

These 13 tips will outline the steps you need to take when creating, presenting and what you need to do after your interview presentation.

1. Understand your audience and what they are looking for

The most important tip we can give is to understand what your audience, the interviewer, is looking for from your presentation. 

If you’re interviewing for an IT Account Manager position and asked to give a mock pitch to clients, is it the contents of your presentation that really matters? Probably not. 

Instead, the interviewers are looking to see that you present yourself well, can communicate effectively, and have a technical understanding of what you’re selling.

2. Keep it nice and short

Nobody wants to sit through a seemingly endless presentation. So try to keep the presentation you give nice and short: As concise as it needs to be.

If you’re really not sure about the length of the presentation, you can always ask the interviewer about how long they would like the interview presentation to be.

If you haven’t been given an outline for how long your presentation should take, you might be tempted to put in as much useful information as you can, to show off your knowledge and skills. But we advise having only the necessary information you need to complete the task at hand or answer the questions that you need to.

3. Have a structure for your presentation

Imperative to having a streamlined and professional interview presentation, is having a solid structure. Whatever the subject of your presentation, you should have an introduction, the main points you want to address, and a conclusion.

4. Use images and graphs, not just text

Make your presentation more engaging by including images, graphs, diagrams and maybe even a video if you’re feeling a bit creative. 

This prevents your presentation from becoming monotonous, and can help to break up slides of text after text or large sets of data.

5. Don’t try to fit too much information on each slide

It can be tempting to try and use up all the real estate on your presentation slides, cramming them with information.

But we advise having slides with just the key points that you want to explore, or a graph that will support what you say.

Keeping the majority of the information off the slides gives you more to talk about, stops everyone from sitting and reading the slides in silence, and will keep the interviewers attention on you. 

6. Try to match the branding of the business

Something we advise that doesn’t take too much effort, is mirroring the branding of the business you’re applying for a role at. 

What we mean by this, is to say you’re applying for a job at BT. Going on the BT website and downloading some pamphlet or e-book from their website and matching the logos and overall colour scheme that they use.

It’s not the most important thing in the world, as it won’t save your interview presentation if everything else goes wrong. But it does show you’re putting in the extra effort to impress the interviewer.

7. Double check for any mistakes

And in opposition to this, is making sure that there are no mistakes in your presentation. Because having simple errors or spelling mistakes in your presentation isn’t a great look, and the interviewer will be sure to notice. 

So make sure to proofread your presentation. And even better, have someone else double check it for you.

8. Practise presenting to yourself, or to friends/ family

The difference between someone presenting for the first time and someone who has rehearsed is absolutely noticeable to a hiring manager. So we strongly advise taking the time to practise your interview presentation beforehand. 

Not only will this help you appear more natural when you present, it will also help you to know if your presentation is too long and needs to be cut down.

9. Be confident when presenting

Not everyone is a natural born public speaker. But exuding confidence in your presentation is essential. Which means:

• Taking your time and not rushing through your presentation. 
• Speaking confidently and clearly.
• Asking whether you’ve been clear with what you’ve said so far.
• Even your body language.

Because if you struggle to present confidently and can’t articulate yourself properly, then the employer won’t be confident that you will be confident in front of customers or clients.

10. Be confident with your body language

When you present, the interviewer will be aware of your body language and what it says about you: So it’s important that you are aware of it too, and you’re in control of it. This can involve making eye contact, using appropriate and positive hand gestures, having a good posture, and smiling.

These are just a few tips, but for more information on how to convey confidence with body language throughout the interview, read our guide on interview body language here .

11. Don’t go overboard on time, and leave time for questions

We’ve mentioned the length of your presentation earlier, but it’s important that you don’t go over the assigned time limit. 

It shows poor time management, poor communication skills (if you take too long to get to the point), and an employer would likely be more hesitant to put you in front of customers or clients.

You should also aim to leave about 5 minutes of time at the end of your presentation to give the interviewers the opportunity to ask any questions, without going overboard on time.

12. Think what questions you need to expect

Predicting the questions you’re going to face seems like an impossible task. After all, you could be asked about pretty much anything. But in reality, understanding the task and what the interviewer is looking for will help you to have an idea of the kinds of questions you’ll be asked.

For example, if you’re giving an interview presentation that is a mock pitch to clients, then you can attempt to think of some objections that a client would raise about your pitch. Or if you were listening to your presentation, what are the questions you would ask?

13. Thank them for their time, and reiterate your interest in the position

When you’ve finished your presentation and interview, remember to thank the interviewer for their time and say again how interested you are in the position and in joining the company.

When an interviewer is trying to make a decision between a few competitive candidates, being the one who is eager and actively wants the job can be a deciding factor.

What to Do If Your Interview Presentation Doesn’t Go to Plan?

Hopefully your interview presentation goes perfectly and you can skip this section completely. But just in case it doesn’t, here are a few things that could go wrong in your presentation and how to avoid them.

Technical difficulties

Technical difficulties can be frustrating at the best of times but especially in a high-pressure situation like an interview. And even worse, they can be completely out of your control.

The best thing you can do is to prepare for any eventuality.

Email a copy of your presentation to yourself. Have another copy on a USB memory stick that you bring with you. Print out a few copies to hand out as a backup. Try to cover all bases where possible.

You are asked a question you don’t know the answer to

While you can try to predict the questions you’ll be asked, it’s unlikely you’ll get them all. And you may even be asked a question to which you simply don’t have the answer. 

So instead of trying to come up with an answer on the spot, it’s best to pause and ask for a minute to consider. Or if you’re truly stumped, be upfront and say you don’t have an answer at that time but will revisit at the end of the interview, or at a later date.

While it would be an ideal situation to have an answer to every question, asking for time to revisit shows confidence and self-awareness.

Your audience seem disinterested or not engaged

Interview presentations are necessarily the most exciting things in the world. Especially if an interviewer has conducted multiple of the same interview. 

So don’t be disheartened if the interviewers don’t seem the most engaged. And if they do, you can always ask the interviewers if everything you have said makes sense so far or if they have any questions about anything you’ve discussed up to that point.

This also helps to stop your interview presentation turning into a lecture and gives yourself a pause to collect your thoughts and take a break.

You’re going overboard on time

Before you go in, you should have a good idea of how long your presentation will last. Even so, you can find yourself going overboard on time when in the interview.

It’s important to be aware of how much time you have left and if you’re going to go overboard on time.

But you can prepare for this beforehand. Before you go into the interview, try to think of areas that you can trim or cut from your presentation just in case. That you would like to include if you have the time, but aren’t 100% necessary to keep in, or that you can summarise quickly if you need to.

5 Ways How Working With a Recruitment Agency Can Help Your Interview Presentation

Interview presentations can be incredibly stressful, and the whole interview process is hardly a barrel of laughs. But working with a recruitment agency can be helpful for a number of reasons:

• Recruiters often have insight into exactly what the interviewer is looking for, giving you an edge over the competition.
• Recruiters have seen hundreds of interview tasks and presentations, and can give you individually tailored advice.
• It gives you someone to rehearse with, or give you feedback on your presentation.
• And the recruiter may also know where previous candidates for the job have gone wrong in their presentations, telling you how to avoid these mistakes.
• All of which can give you a big confidence boost, knowing that you have a recruitment professional in your corner to support you

Support with your job interview presentation is just one of the many benefits of working with a recruitment partner. Have a look at our open IT jobs here , or reach out to register your interest here .

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Home Blog Business How To Make an Interview Portfolio (Examples + Templates)

How To Make an Interview Portfolio (Examples + Templates)

Are you planning your upcoming job interview? If so, it’s important to stay in touch with what recruiters require to showcase your abilities and professional experience in the best format possible. Interview portfolios become a vital asset for any aspiring candidate, as they allow potential employees to showcase their career information in a comprehensive format, much more detailed than traditional curriculum vitae presentations. 

In this article, we will learn how to make an interview portfolio in terms of content and maximize our chances by using PPT templates to create breathtaking graphics. 

Table of Contents

What is an Interview Portfolio?

Structure of an interview portfolio, personal and contact information.

• Resume and Cover Letter

Proof of Qualifications and Certifications

Work samples, professional recommendations and references, achievements and awards, graphics in interview portfolios.

• How Do You Make a Portfolio for a Job Interview Using PowerPoint

Regular Updates and Maintenance of the Portfolio

Final words.

An interview portfolio is a collection of things that show off your skills and achievements. Usually, when we hear portfolio , we think of artists with big black folders showing their artwork. But now, portfolios are used in many different fields. It is a way to show who you are as a professional. It is like a record of all the good things you have done at work or in school [1] . It includes tangible evidence of your accomplishments and presents what you have achieved. It acts as proof of your ability to acquire new skills and knowledge.

An interview portfolio goes beyond a traditional resume as it offers a deeper insight into your capabilities. In a career development plan , creating a portfolio helps you get ready for interviews because it makes you think deeply about your career experiences and achievements [2] . When you’re getting prepared for an interview, this process helps you pick out specific experiences that have taught you essential skills for the workplace. At the same time, developing an interview portfolio allows you to see how well your qualifications match the job requirements of your interest. While expanding your interview portfolio, choosing work samples and skills that show you are a good fit for the job you want is important. You can even make different portfolios for jobs you’re interested in [2] . By reflecting on various skills for a job, you might realize there are some skills you need to work on. A portfolio helps you to figure out exactly which skills you need to improve. This can enhance your confidence during the interview, and you can talk more confidently about your goals.

When creating a portfolio for a job interview, it’s essential to include various materials that collectively highlight your skills.

• Resume or CV
• Certifications and training
• Transcripts
• Testimonials and personal branding elements
• Professional Recommendations

Depending on your field, you can include specific items in your portfolio to show what you know and can do accurately. Your portfolio can end up being quite significant because of all the things you include. However, it is not appropriate to go through every single item with the employer during an interview. A better idea is to pick out certain things from your portfolio to make a smaller version just for the interview. This smaller portfolio can be shown during the interview to prove skills relevant to the job.

When making a portfolio for a job interview, provide updated contact information. This includes your full name, professional email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile URL.  A professional headshot also enhances your portfolio by giving it a personal touch. Additionally, you can also add a concise personal branding statement that can establish your unique identity as an applicant.

Personal branding has a significant impact on career success. 85 % of hiring managers say that a job candidate’s personal brand affects their hiring choices [3] . Your personal brand should present what you’re good at, build trust, and show what makes you unique in your current or desired field. A well-written personal brand can decide whether you’re a good fit for the job you’re applying for.

To understand it better, we will use the job interview portfolio of an IT candidate as an example.

Resume and Cover Letter 

Another vital element of your interview portfolio is your resume and cover letter. A resume summarises your career path, focusing on essential skills, experiences, and accomplishments. On the other hand, a cover letter is a personalized message expressing your interest in a particular job. Both are submitted together.

In a resume, you should highlight your information in an organized and professional manner.  At the same time, you have to customize your cover letter based on the specific requirements of each job you are applying for. Your cover letter highlights how your background aligns with the job posting requirements. This includes explaining your interests in the company that will contribute to its success [4] . Therefore, it would be great to elaborate on relevant points from your resume and express how you would be a valuable addition to their team.

Evidence of your qualifications and certifications enhances your credibility as a potential candidate in your interview portfolio. Whether it is a bachelor’s degree, a certificate, or a professional endorsement, they present your dedication in a relevant field. For instance, in the technology sector, certifications like CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA, or AWS Certified Solutions Architect hold great value in highlighting specialized abilities. Make sure to truthfully present your qualifications and furnish any required paperwork to support your claims.

For example:

John’s Portfolio includes his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and certifications in Agile Development and AWS Certified Solutions Architect. These credentials validate his expertise in software development and cloud computing, making him a strong candidate for IT infrastructure or application development roles.

Work samples also portray your capabilities and accomplishments in your interview presentation . We suggest choosing projects or assignments that show your skills and achievements relevant to the position you’re applying for.  Provide a reflection statement for every sample included in the portfolio [2] . This statement should briefly describe the sample item and the context in which it was created. Additionally, the reflection statement should offer a detailed list of the competencies developed by the sample. This part of the reflection is crucial as it details the specific skills and abilities highlighted by each portfolio element. Thus, a work sample is a valuable tool in the interview process.

Software developers may include code samples or links to GitHub repositories highlighting their coding proficiency. Network administrators would select diagrams or documentation outlining infrastructure projects they’ve managed.  It is essential to annotate each work sample to provide context and highlight your contributions.

For Example:

John’s work samples include a web application he developed using React.js and Node.js, demonstrating his proficiency in full-stack web development. He also includes a case study detailing a network infrastructure upgrade project he led, highlighting his ability to design and implement scalable IT solutions.

A strong endorsement from a trusted source can significantly enhance your credibility and make a positive impression during the hiring process. Compared to references, recommendations are more in-depth [5]. A reference agrees to provide you with a positive recommendation for a job or program.

You can choose references who are familiar with your recent work. They can provide specific examples of your strengths and accomplishments. You must obtain permission from each reference before including their contact information in your portfolio. An excellent option for a reference could be your current supervisor, colleague, or professor from your college [6] . It is important to present references organizationally, including their name, job title, company, and contact information. 

John’s interview portfolio includes positive recommendations from his previous supervisors and colleagues, highlighting his strong work ethic, technical expertise, and collaborative nature. One of his supervisors writes ,

Subject: Recommendation for John Doe

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to highly recommend John Doe for the Software Engineer position at your company. As John’s professor for his Thesis at XYZ University, I can attest to his outstanding abilities and dedication to his studies. John consistently excelled in his thesis, demonstrating a deep understanding of software development principles and techniques. His practice projects, like designing a complex e-commerce platform, showcased his exceptional coding skills and problem-solving abilities. What sets John apart is his proactive approach to learning and his eagerness to tackle new challenges.

Beyond his technical skills, John is an excellent communicator and a collaborative team player. He consistently contributed valuable insights during group projects and mentored his peers to help them improve their coding abilities. I do not doubt that John’s combination of technical expertise, passion for software development, and strong work ethic make him an ideal candidate for the Software Engineer position at your company. I wholeheartedly endorse him for this role and believe he will be a valuable asset to your team.

Please feel free to contact me if you need further information or clarification regarding John’s qualifications.

Prof. Jane Smith

Assistant Professor of Computer Science

XYZ University

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (123) 456-7890

Add it to your interview portfolio if you have succeeded in your field. Highlighting your recognitions or awards will prove your value. Achievements such as receiving industry certifications or being recognized for outstanding performance contribute to your credibility in the field. You can include achievements and awards to reinforce your qualifications for the job position.

When explaining achievements and awards, focus on their relevance to the job position and how they describe your capabilities and accomplishments. Highlight any specific skills that were instrumental in earning the recognition. You can also explain how they align with the requirements of the role you’re applying for. Whether it’s a technical accomplishment, leadership recognition, or customer service award, emphasize its impact on your professional development and your ability to contribute effectively to the organization.

John’s interview portfolio features several notable achievements and awards, including winning first place in a regional coding competition and receiving the “Employee of the Year” award at his previous company. These achievements underscore John’s technical prowess, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills, which are highly relevant to the Senior Software Engineer position he’s applying for at ABC Tech. By showcasing these recognitions, John reinforces his qualifications and positions himself as a top candidate.

They choose the proper portfolio format, whether physical or digital, which is crucial in making a favorable impression during an interview. However, it also depends on the hiring manager or the nature of the job when deciding on the format. Physical portfolios leave a strong impression and provide a hands-on experience. On the other side, digital portfolios offer flexible and simple sharing. The selection depends on the expectations of the industry and company culture.

Regardless of the format chosen, ensure that your interview portfolio maintains a neat, organized, and professional appearance. We suggest using high-quality materials for physical portfolios, such as a professional binder or portfolio case. The applicant must ensure that all documents are well-organized and easy to navigate. For digital portfolios, a visually appealing layout is essential. All files should be appropriately labeled and easily accessible.

How Do You Make a Portfolio for a Job Interview Using PowerPoint 

Using PowerPoint templates can be an effective way to create an attractive digital interview portfolio. You can choose a template that complements your content and goes well with your personal branding. Whether it is a PowerPoint or Google Slide Template , you can easily customize it to include your name, contact information, and any relevant branding elements. However, you must ensure readability and avoid overcrowding slides with too much text or graphics. Keeping the design clean and straightforward gives a professional look.

In order to save time and effort, we’ll give you a list of the best-suited Interview Portfolio PPT templates.

1. Curriculum Vitae Job Interview Template for PowerPoint

Present all the information regarding your professional accomplishments, certifications, work experience, etc., in a highly visual format. Minimalistic slides with bold color combinations – make your career stand out!

Use This Template

2. Interview Portfolio Chronological Resume Template

If you’re looking for ideas on creating a portfolio for a job interview, this template can simplify the process with a one-idea-per-slide approach. Available in light and dark layouts.

3. Minimalistic Interview Portfolio Slide Deck

This slide deck includes several placeholder images across the slides, ideal for showcasing work experience for job seekers in creative careers. It is designed for job seekers looking to create a minimalistic portfolio for an interview.

4. Animated Interview Portfolio Resume Slide Deck

Make your job interview an outstanding experience by using animated slides. This interview portfolio deck is fully compatible with all PowerPoint versions and helps you articulate your information thanks to a clean layout and animated effects.

5. Job Interview Portfolio Box Slide Template

With three distinctive areas in which to fill your information, these creative slides can convey your information in an extremely concise format.

6. One-Pager Curriculum Vitae Template for PowerPoint

We conclude this list with this sleek one-pager template to turn your Word-format CV into a powerful slide that leaves a lasting impression. Presenters can customize the color scheme to their preferred choices. Available in light and dark format.

Tips for Presenting the Portfolio During an Interview

When presenting your portfolio during an interview, prepare in advance to ensure a smooth and professional delivery. There are a few tips to remember;

• Practice discussing each section of your portfolio and be ready to provide context and insights into your work samples, achievements, and qualifications.
• You have to be early to the interview to set up your physical portfolio
• If you’re using a digital portfolio, check whether it is accessible on your device.
•  Confidence is also necessary when discussing your materials, and be prepared to answer any questions as needed.

It is crucial to regularly update your interview portfolio to maximize its impact during the job search. As your skills, experiences, and achievements progress, you may keep incorporating these developments into your portfolio. This will enable you to display your qualifications to prospective employers effectively. Besides, consistent updates will guarantee that your portfolio remains a valuable asset for highlighting your proficiency.

Review your resume, cover letter, work samples, qualifications, and achievements periodically to ensure they accurately reflect your current skills and experiences. You can seek feedback from mentors, peers, or industry professionals to gain insights into areas for improvement and make necessary changes.

Creating a professional portfolio for an interview is a strategic investment in your job search success. From perfecting your CV and choosing suitable samples of your work to showcasing your portfolio with poise during interviews, each stage is crucial in making you a unique applicant in the eyes of potential employers. Remember to regularly update and maintain your portfolio to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in the ever-evolving job market.

[1] Interview Portfolios. https://www.sph.umn.edu/current/careers/students/resources/interviewing/interview-portfolios/

[2] Simmons, A. & Lumsden, J.  Preparing a Portfolio. https://career.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu746/files/Preparing%20a%20Portfolio_0.pdf

[3] Joubert, S. (2024) Tips for Building Your Personal Brand, Graduate Blog. https://graduate.northeastern.edu/resources/tips-for-building-your-personal-brand/

[4] Work on my Resume, Cover Letter, and Portfolio. The WCSU Career Success Center. Available at: https://www.wcsu.edu/careersuccess/resumes/ (Accessed: 15 March 2024).

[5] https://ischool.sjsu.edu/career-blog/do-you-need-reference-or-recommendation-heres-how-tell

[6] References and Recommendations. https://career.engr.psu.edu/students/basics/references.aspx

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Presentation at an Interview

Have you had any experience of delivering a presentation at an interview? How do you prepare ? How do you engage your audience?

Presentations are a common part of the recruitment process for graduate, research, teaching, consulting and other professional roles across a range of sectors.

Whether you have had a lot or limited experience in delivering presentations through university or work, you might find the tips below useful when preparing for the next steps in your career.

Purpose of having a presentation at an interview

The employer wants to see evidence that you can do the job and evidence of your written and verbal communication skills, which we will cover in detail in the points below.

Notice of a presentation at an interview

It is usual to have at least 3-5 days advance notice on the content of your presentation, usually, you are notified via email or the recruitment portal. If the interview is held at an assessment centre, candidates might be told on the day that they are required to present and given the brief.

Presentations usually last 5 – 15 minutes and are often the first part of the interview process i.e. before a one-on-one or panel interview.

Understanding the brief

It is imperative that you are clear on what you have been asked to do. Always revisit the task and contact the employer if you have any questions. Sometimes you may be expected to present to the interview panel as if they were clients/students/colleagues etc. Examples of presentation tasks can include addressing how you would carry out one or more aspect of the role; a timeline of how you would spend your first few weeks or months in relation to a project; a strategy for engaging with multiple stakeholders, managing a budget or building a brand.

Think carefully about the task and how it relates to the job description and person specification. This is another opportunity for you to demonstrate you are a suitable match for the role. Consider the questions below:

• What do you need to address?
• How long have you got to present?
• Who is your audience?
• Where should your focus be?
• What research is involved?
• What is important to the employer e.g. skills and strategy?

Verbal communication – tone and speed of voice

Be aware of how you are perceived during your presentation,  do you use different tones of voice when speaking? Consider the subject matter and how your voice can convey the correct message. By practising your presentation, you are more likely to come across as confident in the delivery. Avoid relying on cue cards or simply reading text off a document or screen. Speech anxiety in this situation is common, but most of what we feel during this period is not usually visible to the audience.

Examples of nerves include shaking, a dry mouth and an increase in body temperature. We can often speed up the pace we are presenting at as a coping mechanism – rushing through the content for it to be over for example. We must learn to recognise if we are speaking too fast or our words are mumbled. Pauses during the presentation can be a great way to gather our thoughts and give a moment for everyone in the room to process what has been said.

Time management

Your ability to deliver your presentation within the allocated time limit says a lot about you. This shows you are organised and can complete tasks in a timely manner. The planning and preparation you put in beforehand will be helpful here.

Non-verbal communication – connecting with the audience

Whether you are presenting to two people or a larger audience, you need to find ways to connect with them. How many people are expected to be present and who are they? Think about your facial expressions, gestures and posture. Looking at individuals in the eye, smiling and having open body language can help to make the audience feel relaxed and you come across as more approachable.

Written communication – visual aids

Be mindful of the type of organisation you are applying to when preparing your resources – colours, logo, values and strategy. Ensure that if you are creating a PowerPoint presentation, the colours do not clash and that you do not include too much text on your slides. Think about the use of suitable images or charts.

Be confident when using this Microsoft Office application and save several versions of it on a USB and email it to yourself in case technology fails you when in the interview room. Remember that the audience can read everything on the slides very quickly. Use the slides for key points and keywords as prompts to lead you.

Handouts can also be useful as the interviewers will refer to this for more detail on the task.

Ensure your spelling, punctuation and grammar are correct. Avoid the use of Americanisms for non-US companies. Think about the language used and the role you are going for. Visit the organisation’s website to gain a further understanding of what type of employee they are looking for.

Dealing with the unexpected

Be prepared to adapt your presentation delivery style if the reality does not meet your expectations. Examples of this include the size of the audience, room and technical issues. It is important to not get stressed or look as though you are under pressure. Try to remain calm and positive as these are qualities employers look for in most roles. Have a plan B for your presentation delivery in case something does go wrong.

Always be prepared for questions at the end of your presentation. Individuals will have queries or want to make comment on specific content. Be open to these questions and any constructive feedback and respond in a professional manner. By giving yourself enough time to prepare your presentation, you will have the confidence to articulate your strengths and ideas.

Here is a checklist to use when preparing for your next presentation at interview

• Seek clarification on what you must do
• Identify your audience
• Get confirmation on the use of technology in the room
• Revisit the job description and person specification
• Spend time planning your presentation
• Practice your presentation in front of others
• Take a course or watch a webinar on confidence building, presentation skills or public speaking
• Speak to a career professional or mentor about dealing with nerves

You made a good impression during the application stage of the job and got shortlisted because the employer wants to meet you and hear about your strengths and ideas. Spend enough time preparing for your presentation so that you can demonstrate why you are suitable for the role.

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Nadine Lewis

Nadine Lewis is a qualified and experienced careers consultant currently working in higher education. She is passionate about empowering students, graduates and professionals to take control of their careers. Nadine has been published in Prospects and presented at various events. In her spare time, she enjoys attending cultural activities and travelling around Europe. LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/nadinermlewis

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10 minute presentation for a job interview

A key part of interviews nowadays is to ask prospective applicants to carry out a 10-minute presentation. In this question and answer article, we asked our readers to see if they had any advice for these kinds of presentations.

I’ve just been told that I have a job interview next Wednesday. I need to do a 10 minute presentation in front of the other candidates followed by a formal interview. The topic of the presentation is “What I can bring to this position” and “How will I adapt to make my job successful”. I’ve never had to do anything like this before and I just don’t know where to start!

Question by Sarah K.

I am also  preparing for an interview myself. I have to present myself and let them know what will I bring to the team. I have started my report by saying who am I, my academic background and now I am thinking of talking about my business qualifications and how my present job experience helped me be more responsible, organized, problem solver ext. I will present some cases where I was very much involved and that will show my professional attitude and mentality.

Answer thanks to Stefan.

I have been offered the following advice for my ten minute presentation for an interview this coming Tuesday, so I’m sharing it with you. I will be given the topic and given an hour to prepare it.

The structure: 

Tell them what you are going to tell them.

Tell them what you told them.

You should use minimal flip charts or slides, no more than 4 I would aim at 3 if possible.

• Start with an introduction “I am”, “I will be talking about … and I will allow time for questions (at end).”
• Depending upon what subject you get you may wish to consider using the SWOT analysis method of delivery which should contain about 3 or 4 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. I often find subjects or the questions asked don’t fit easily into SWOT and should that be the case it is perhaps best to use the rule of 3.
• Pick what your Focal point will be i.e Our Company should wear green ties not red ties.
• Presuming that you will be given a flipchart at least, I would divide the body of the presentation into three points, and use a separate flip chart for each point. For example, discussing the cost, availability and quality.
• Conclude with a summary backing up your point and maybe even a catch phrase or saying.

Other notes of advice:

Adhere strictly to time, try not to over complicate it, don’t talk to the flip chart, and practice if you have time. In terms of preparation before the day, rack your brains for questions and practice it at home. This will mean that your introduction will essentially be the same and a little bit like a ‘fill in the blanks’.

Answer thanks to Rach.

10 minutes on why I applied and why I am an ideal candidate. 

In a couple of weeks, I will have to give a 10 minute presentation for a prospective job opportunity. I have to answer two questions in this presentation, why I choose to apply for the job and why I am an ideal candidate. I have done some research on the company and have a decent response for the presentation but I have recently found out there are a lot of other candidates and feel I need a hook or theme that the panel will remember and identify with. Do you have any ideas on how I can come up with a suitable ‘hook’ for the presentation.

Question by David Baughan. 

It is good to see you have done some research on the company, as my best advice for you is to read the job application form and the company’s web site, see what kind of qualities they are looking for. Usually in their company description or job description they will have words like dynamic, honesty, integrity, and innovation in it.Try to use these and others adjectives you think are applicable in your presentation.

Answer thanks to Anita. 

As much as possible use real live examples of why you are ideal, i.e. the challenges which you faced at your last company, some of which may face your prospective employers. Talk a little about the ways you have handled yourself and dealt with problems i.e., I handled this problem by using X, which resulted in Y. By doing this you are quoting experience, showing you understand their business, and sharing your knowledge… all good things to show in an interview.

Answer thanks to Amy Brown. 

Three successes and one failure presentation

I have to give a 10 minutes presentation tomorrow for a job interview. It has to be based on 3 successes and one failure. I’m going to concentrate on job related issues. Does anyone have any tips on how to pitch this?I have been advised to follow the Situation, Task, Action and Result framework for each item to ensure that I demonstrate the competencies required by the interviewers, but I’m worried that the presentation will end up being too detailed.Also, any views on how I should order each item? ie shall I cover the failure item last or is that too negative?

Question by Mandy Tipp. 

The best way to present a failure is to fail because of one of your strengths (e.g. I was so determined to get the job done on time, that we went slightly over budget) Effectively talk about the failure more as a trade-off, rather than as a failure. You don’t have to talk about your worst failure.Another one would be I lost the deal, but I was able to take the earnings and win the next one. Also don’t use the failure as the last item. It should go in the middle. People will remember the first and the last items, but not the ones in the middle. Ensure that you say what you learnt from that failure, and how to do it better next time.

Answer by Doctor. 

Have you got any tips for a 10 minute interview presentations? If so leave them in the comments box below.

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I have a job interview lined up and I have been told that I will need to do a 10 minute presentation explaining the following;

“How would you explain the importance of document management/control and its key elements to 5 year olds in a nursery school. What examples would you use?”

I could easily explain this to an adult, however I am really stuck on how to prepare a presentation for children. If any of you have some advice it would be greatly appreciated.

Please, please help!!!

I have asked to give a 10 minute presentation on specific questions. Do I go straight into answering those questions in the presentation or should I start by providing a short background on my career?

It depends on how many questions you have to answer, because 10 minutes isn’t very long to answer lots of questions. If you have been given 4 questions to answer, spend about a minute introducing yourself and then 2 mins per question, and a quick summary of a minute. These timings become smaller with more questions, or longer with fewer questions

Hi I have been asked to do an interview presentation on what I will find interesting, satisfying or challenging about the role, any ideas how to structure the 10 minute presentation?

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The Ultimate Guide on How to Prepare for a Job Interview

J ob interviews play a crucial role in the hiring process, as they provide an opportunity for employers to assess a candidate's qualifications, skills and cultural fit. It's a chance for job seekers to make a strong impression and showcase their suitability for the position. Interviews go beyond what is written on a resume, allowing employers to gauge an individual's communication skills, problem-solving abilities and professional demeanor.

In today's competitive job market , standing out from other candidates is essential. A well-executed interview can make a significant difference in securing the desired job offer. It is not just about answering questions; it's about presenting oneself as the ideal candidate, building rapport with the interviewer and demonstrating enthusiasm for the role and the company.

Related: How To Prepare For A Job Interview | Entrepreneur

How do hiring managers and recruiters contribute to the hiring process?

Hiring managers and recruiters play crucial roles in the hiring process. But what exactly do they do, and how can understanding their roles better prepare you for an interview?

Recruiters, often the first point of contact, look for potential candidates, match their skills and experiences with the job description and arrange the initial stages of the interview process.

Hiring managers, on the other hand, make the final call. They evaluate your interview answers, gauge your fit within the company culture and decide if you're the one who will receive the job offer.

Knowing the role these key players have can shape how you approach the interview. Recognizing the recruiter's role can help you tailor your cover letter and resume. Understanding the hiring manager's expectations can aid you in crafting specific examples during the interview to demonstrate you're the right person for the new job.

Related: Job Interview Preparation Checklist | Entrepreneur

How can researching the job and company enhance your interview performance?

The importance of researching the job and company before an interview cannot be overstated. A thorough understanding of the job description allows you to highlight how your work experience and certifications align with the job requirements. Furthermore, researching the company culture enables you to demonstrate how you would fit within the company.

LinkedIn is a valuable tool in this research process. It can provide insights into the company and potential interviewer and even offer networking opportunities with current employees who could share useful tips. The company's website is also a crucial resource that gives a more formal view of the company's mission, values and recent achievements.

Finally, checking the company's social media platforms offers a less formal view of the company and its culture. Observing how the company represents itself on social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter can provide a comprehensive picture of the company, preparing you to impress the potential employer with your detailed understanding during the interview.

Related: Job Seekers: Questions to Ask in an Interview | Entrepreneur

What are the different types of interviews and how do you prepare for them?

Job interviews come in many forms , and knowing what to expect can significantly impact your performance.

The three most common types of interviews are phone interviews, video interviews — typically conducted over platforms like Zoom — and in-person interviews.

Phone interviews

Phone interviews are often an initial screening tool used by recruiters. Preparation for this type of interview involves ensuring a quiet environment and having a copy of your resume at hand for reference. It's essential to listen carefully to the recruiter's questions and answer clearly, keeping in mind that without visual cues, your tone of voice carries extra weight.

Video interviews

Video interviews have become more prevalent in recent years, and they require unique preparation. Just like an in-person interview, dressing professionally is crucial — even if only the upper half of your outfit will be visible. Choosing a quiet, well-lit environment with a neutral background ensures that focus stays on you. Practicing with a family member can help iron out any technical issues and get you comfortable with talking to a camera.

In-person interviews

In-person interviews call for more traditional preparation. This involves planning your journey to the interview location, dressing appropriately and carrying multiple copies of your resume.

Remember, a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact make a positive first impression. Also, mock interviews with a family member can help reduce nerves and fine-tune your interview skills.

Related: Phone Interview Questions: What To Expect and How To Prepare | Entrepreneur

How can you master the art of answering interview questions?

Answering interview questions effectively is an art that you can master with practice and strategy. Most interviews involve common interview questions like, "Tell me about yourself," or "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" Preparing for these gives you a chance to showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

Some interviews feature behavioral interview questions. These aim to understand how you've handled specific situations in the past under the premise that past behavior can predict future performance.

Using the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action and Result — can help structure your responses effectively. This approach involves describing a situation, the task you had to accomplish, the action you took and the result of your action.

It's vital to incorporate specific examples into your responses. This demonstrates to the hiring manager that you have real-world experience that translates into potential success in the new job. If you're a recent graduate with limited work experience, don't hesitate to use examples from internships, school or extracurricular activities.

Related: 15 Interview Questions You Should Be Prepared to Answer | Entrepreneur

What are the key aspects of presentation during an interview?

During an interview, your verbal communication is just as crucial as your non-verbal cues. Experts recommend maintaining positive body language — this includes maintaining eye contact, giving a firm handshake and using open postures. These non-verbal cues can project confidence and engagement.

Your interview outfit also plays a part in your presentation. Dressing professionally, irrespective of the company culture, shows respect and interest in the role. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Another aspect of the interview presentation is discussing salary expectations. This can be a tricky part of the interview process. It's generally best to research beforehand what similar roles in your location pay and be prepared with a range if asked.

Lastly, prepare a list of questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the job and engaged in the process. Questions could be about the company culture, the role or the next steps in the hiring process. Remember, an interview is a two-way street — it's as much about the company impressing you as you impressing the company.

Preparing for common interview questions is essential to boost your confidence and improve your interview performance. While specific questions may vary depending on the job and company, certain types of questions are commonly asked. These include questions about your work experience, skills, strengths and weaknesses, problem-solving abilities, teamwork and your fit for the role.

Related: 6 New Rules for Acing Your Job Interview | Entrepreneur

How can you stand out post-interview?

While the interview itself is crucial, your actions post-interview can set you apart from other job seekers. Sending a thank-you note to your interviewer is a great way to show your appreciation for their time. A brief, well-written email within 24 hours of the interview is usually adequate. This is also an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the role and the company.

In the thank-you note, reference a part of the interview conversation that stood out to you. This personal touch shows that you were attentive and engaged. Also, if there was something you wished you'd explained better during the interview, this could be a chance to clarify briefly.

After the interview, be sure to follow up professionally. If you were informed of the next steps in the interview process, be patient and wait for that period to pass before reaching out. If you weren't given a timeline, waiting for a week before sending a polite follow-up email is a good rule of thumb.

Lastly, regardless of the outcome, view each interview as a learning experience. If you're offered the job, great! If not, seek feedback where possible, refine your approach and remember, the goal is to find the right fit for you and the employer.

Related: 6 Reasons This Is the Perfect Thank-You Email to Send After a Job Interview | Entrepreneur

Landing your next job

In conclusion, navigating the job search and acing a job interview requires strategic preparation. By considering these interview tips, understanding the kind of interview you're facing and mastering your responses to common job interview questions, you're setting yourself up for success.

It's important to keep in mind that the next interview you face could be the one that lands you your dream job. Keep refining your interview prep strategy, pay attention to the feedback you receive and never stop learning. Remember, each interview is a stepping stone, bringing you closer to your ultimate career goals.

If you're interested in learning more about how to land your dream job, then check out some of t he other articles at Entrepreneur for more information.