Introducing yourself during a job interview seems simple, but it is tricky if you’re not aware of what you have to say. First impressions can play a major role in how an employer observes you as a candidate.

This is a time you want to express that you have the proficiency and communication skills to be a talent to the company if hired.

There is a possibility that some hiring managers may reject a candidate based on a poor first impression. Here are guidelines on how to introduce yourself;

Devine Uwase, a business manager in Kigali says that before you even introduce yourself, evade common interview mistakes, like dressing inappropriately or not paying attention to what you’re asked, but also relax before entering the interview room to avoid panic.

She says, if the interview is done via video, look directly at the camera, and centre on the camera during the interview to make eye contact with your interviewer. Immediately after the interviewer is done introducing who they are, you can reply with a simple introduction of yourself. Doing so with a smile makes you speak differently, but confidently.

"At this point, keep it simple, just your names, and maybe appreciate the opportunity to make it to the interview, then wait tightly for the interview questions.

"If asked questions like, "Tell me about yourself,” your response should emphasise key elements in your background that will allow you to excel in the job for which you are interviewing. You can illuminate your skills, experience, and personality without letting out much information or taking too much time,” Uwase says.

She adds that your introduction can briefly highlight your enthusiasm for the job and organisation. While introducing yourself, you’re aimed at attracting the interviewer’s first impression of you and will set the nature for the entire interview.

Uwase notes that you might also highlight special training and technical skills. Focus on the qualifications in the job description and indicate why you’re looking for a new challenge and why you feel this role is the best next step.

She explains that don’t assume that the interviewer has closely read your resume and knows your qualifications, but summarise points that make you stand out.

‘It’s a dialogue, not a presentation, allow your interviewer the chance to dive in and ask questions.’

According to the Muse career website, use a simple and effective formula for structuring your response, for example, present, past, future. In the present, talk a little bit about what your current role is, the scope of it, and perhaps a big recent accomplishment.

"In the past, tell the interviewer how you got there and mention previous experience that’s relevant to the job and company you’re applying for. For the future, go into what you’re looking to do next and why you’re interested in this job. It is best off keeping your answer professional.”

Experts discourage the mistake of answering this question with personal information as some people take-off into their life story, starting with their hometown and continuing on through their college graduation.

Alternately, others share descriptions of the problems in their current job, explaining that they applied for this position because their employer won’t allow them to work a flexible schedule.

And some job seekers simply summarize their resume, going point-by-point through their work experience and education history. This is an indication that you’re not that serious about the position or simply trying to escape a bad situation at your current job.

Uwase further says that you don’t have to tell the hiring manager every single thing that you think makes you a great candidate, but instead, give a few important details that will spur their interest in learning more about you, and you will get the interview off to a strong start.