Don’t worry, we’re not talking about a video presentation. But it’s just as important! Your “two-minute commercial” is the foundation of your job search. It’s what you will use in your cover letters and when you are networking.

“Tell Me About Yourself.”

Do you dread the age-old conversation starter: “Tell me about yourself”? You won’t after this blog post! We’re going to help you create your “commercial” ahead of time, so you’ll be ready to go!

Remember, you are not trying to tell your life story when job searching. Like any commercial, you are stressing the benefits of the product (you!) and why the person needs what you’re offering. You’re also including a call to action: Act now before another company snatches me up!

Write Your Script

While you offer the same skillset and strengths, different companies are looking for different things. Highlighting the benefits you can bring to a company is not a one-size-fits-all commercial. You will need to consider the following before you create your script:

• Who are you addressing?
• What is important to this person?
• Is there a problem they’re looking to solve that you can help with?
• Who are your competitors?
• What do you offer that others do not?

Example for those Unemployed

If you are currently unemployed and job searching through a networking event, an appropriate commercial could be: “Hi, I’m [insert name] and I’m currently looking for a new challenge! I have 10 years’ experience of top sales performance working directly with consumers. I’ve been known to help turn a dissatisfied customer into a loyal customer in no time. It’s actually one of the best things about what I do! I really enjoy fostering those relationships. If you know anyone looking for a high performer, I would love to connect with them. Here is my contact information.”

You could either have professional cards printed or share contact information via a text message if that feels appropriate.

If you don’t have years and years of experience, your commercial might sound more like: “Hi, I’m [insert name]. I just finished up a sales position in the financial industry and really enjoyed it. My past managers have told me I’m a quick learner and they like that I’m not scared to jump in. I’m hoping to use those skills in a new sales role that offers more opportunities for me as I continue to refine my skillset. If you know anyone looking for a go-getter who doesn’t think any task is below them, then I’d love to connect! Here’s my contact information.”

Remember that not having a bunch of years under your belt and on your resume, doesn’t mean that you won’t be a desirable candidate. It takes all levels to make a business run, so keep connecting and networking!

Example During an Interview

If you are in front of a prospective employer, an appropriate commercial would be: “I have spent the last five years as the top sales representative out of 25 reps for a leading technology company. I will bring those experiences and my ability to generate sales to your company. I think I’d fit in well with your organization and I’m very excited to work with you and your company.”

For those with fewer years of experience, your commercial might sound more like this: “I’ve finished my sales course training, have 2 designations in financial services and I’m looking for the perfect company to launch my career journey. I was excited to see this opportunity come up! I’m a fast learner, according to past managers I have the ambition to get things done, and I’m ready to help your company meet their goals this year.”

You might not have years’ experience, but you can talk about courses, designations, on-the-job training, and anything else you’ve done to gain experience. Sometimes those experiences can be the difference it takes to land the job! Others might be making the same pitch but are lacking the training experience.

The Wrap-Up

Once you have established an interest in what you are saying, you then need to talk about the accomplishments you have achieved and how those benefits could transfer to your next employer.

Examples of the commercial wrap-up include:

• “I have been able to provide my past employers with an instant return on investment and will do the same for your company.”
• “My entire work history has proven my ability to break sales records, and I would bring that same ambition and hard work ethic to your company.”
• “My career has proven my ability to take over a territory rated ‘last’ and within a relatively short period of time, take the territory to No. 1 in the company for sales and profits.”

Now it’s your turn! Take a few moments and write your two-minute commercial.

Start Your Job Search with Westphal Staffing!

Consider using a recruiter to help guide the process. Here at Westphal Staffing, it is part of our culture to make connections, recognize humans as individuals, and collaborate with professionals. Today, more than ever that culture is transforming the staffing experience, making us a different kind of staffing company. Call or text us today at (715) 845-5569!