Personal pitch

During your work search, you will encounter hiring managers, human resources staff and others involved in recruitment. It is helpful to have an idea of what type of work you’re interested in, what you’re looking for and what skills, experiences and qualifications you can offer an organization. This kind of information can be shared in networking encounters. This personal pitch should take  30 - 45 seconds.

Personal pitch information can include: 

• your name 

• your program and institution attended 

• field/position of interest 

• knowledge, skills, unique experience and ideas that would be of value in this field/position 

• your interest in this organization (if speaking to a representative from that organization) 

• a question to engage the person in a conversation. This question could be about a significant challenge or opportunity affecting the company or industry. This type of question helps distinguish you as a person of ideas, goals and interests, not just as a list of experiences or qualifications. 

When you highlight your knowledge, skills and experiences to a potential employer, focus on the organization and the position you are applying for. Employers are looking for the relevance and benefit of your offer. Remember, it is also essential to express your interest in the company. All of this requires research. 

When conducting your research, think about how the following questions fit with your skills: 

• Why are you interested in this company/field specifically? How do your skills demonstrate this interest? 

• What is it about the company that impresses you? What can you bring to the company to complement this? 

• Why are they different from other companies? 

1. Learn more about: Broadcast letter and how to prepare for job fairs