Tell Me About Yourself -
how to answer.
"Tell me about yourself" seems a straightforward enough request in a job interview. However it can be a difficult question to grapple with - there are so many possible answers and pieces of information that you could provide.
Where do you begin? What details should you mention?
How much information should you give? These sample interview answers and tips will put you on the right track to providing the response the interviewer is looking for.
We provide some excellent basic guidelines on how to approach this question at interview questions and answers. Here we take it further by providing you with good sample interview answers to use for different situations.
The first rule of thumb for answering the Tell me about yourself question is to discuss what interests the interviewer. That means focusing on the experience and skills you have that will add value to the position.
Relevancy is key to properly answering this interview question. Carefully consider the most important job requirements when you prepare your answer. Keep it concise and targeted.
Providing evidence of your skills by detailing your accomplishments will set you apart from the other candidates. A clear and concise summary of what you can do for the company is what the interviewer wants to hear.
Giving proof of your suitability for the position will quickly convince the interviewer that you are a serious contender for the job.
If you are moving into a different industry you should highlight the transferable skills you can bring to the job in your interview answer. Study the job and decide which of your competencies are relevant. Keep your answer focused on those qualities that are pertinent to the job.
When you are an entry level job candidate it is important to focus on your qualifications and any work experience you have. Your answer should include what you hope to achieve with your first job.
Remember that you don't have to provide a long description of your qualifications, your time at college or your internships. Interviewers will pick up on those aspects they want to learn more about and will ask you questions to get further information.
This gets the conversation going.
"Tell Me About Yourself" - What Not to Do
Hiring managers list the most common mistakes candidates make when answering this question.
- Recite what's on their resume in a long monologue
- Discuss personal information that has nothing to do with the job opportunity
- Use meaningless cliches to describe themselves like "I'm a people's person"
- Ramble on without any focus to the answer due to lack of preparation
For more great tips on answering the Tell me About Yourself interview question.
How to Answer Common Interview Questions
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What has been your greatest achievement?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Tough Interview Questions
What is your reason for leaving?
What salary are you looking for?
Can you explain these employment gaps?
Be ready with a list of insightful questions to ask in your interview.
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