Interviews Let You Share Who You Are
Landing a job interview is the first step toward beginning your actuarial career. But how does one differentiate oneself from other candidates being considered for the same opportunity?
Being prepared and presenting yourself in a professional manner are keys to success. That means not only researching your potential employer and the work they do, but also checking in with your contacts to see whether there are any insights they might be able to share—especially if they are current or former employees. It also means dressing appropriately and communicating clearly for the job you are seeking.
Those are just starting points, however, toward putting one’s best self on display at an interview. Selling yourself as the best choice for the job also means:
- Being confident
- Being your true self
- Highlighting your story
- Answering questions fully but concisely
- Asking your own questions
- Being a good listener and not just speaking
Job interviewers will undoubtedly be asking about skills and experience, ones that you may not have had an opportunity to gain in the professional world. Don’t be afraid to share your history as a problem solver even if it hasn’t been in an office setting. Transferable learning can happen at retail or restaurant jobs; leading student organizations; or in helping to support your family.
Additionally, it is important to share opportunities where you worked as part of a team, because collaboration is an important part of the workplace. And don’t hesitate to discuss both successes and failures—not everything always turns out as initially hoped. Take responsibility for your part and explain how it was a learning experience that’s helped you improve.
