The Most Common Job Interview Question: " Tell Me About Yourself"

Question

What is a professional and effective response to the question interviewers most commonly ask, "Tell me about yourself"?

Answer 1

This question scares people but in reality you should be hoping you get asked this question for the very reason that it is open ended, which allows you to define yourself for them.

In an interview, you are selling a product - you - to a potential buyer. The buyer usually knows what they want - you need to find out as best you can what that is and then position yourself in a way that makes you the fulfillment of that need.

You must have your answer to this question memorized and well-practiced - no hesitation or fumbling for the right word, but watch for non-verbal cues to judge your effectiveness - are they confused, bored, etc. Ask if they want you to elaborate on anything - but only if you are prepared to do so.

You should focus on 3 specific skills that you have that they need. One innate skill, one learned skill that is generic enough to use anywhere, and one specialized learned skill that applies specifically to the interview situation.

Most interviewers want to hear about accomplishments and problem-solving, and they love specifics - you created a database with 420,000 records, or increased sales at the book store by 17%, or you've designed six projects in some specific CAD software. Give them some numbers.

Use short, punchy sentences. Repeat your skills - your brand - several times during this answer and throughout the interview. You want to be memorable. When they think of you later, those 3 skills should come to mind.

Also, don't say anything negative about anyone or anything ever - be positive. And it is OK to say outright "I want this job." That could be an influential factor, even subconsciously.

Good luck!

Answer 2

This interview question is most often the first question that is being asked in a job interview. In order to effectively answer this question, your answer should be broken down into four sections:

Education: Begin with your education, if currently enrolled or recently graduated. Mention your year in school, if still enrolled, your major(s) and minor, and how you became interested in the field. 

Work Experience: Discuss your current position, if you are currently working. If you worked in the past, mention previous job(s). Focus on transferable skills that would be valuable to employers in the field, professional accomplishments, or recognition you received. 

Key Strengths: Based on your research of the organization, mention two strengths that match its requirements. 

1. (insert strength)
2. (insert strength) 

Your Future: End why you are interested in working for the organization. State that you look forward to learning more about how you might be able to contribute your skills, talents, and experience in the future. 

While preparing for your interview, you should develop a response by using your notes and then practice, practice, practice! Your answer to this question should be approximately 2 minutes long.