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?

Employer and candidate engaged in job interview across a desk

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.

"Can you tell me about yourself?" - top sample interview answers

Text of sample interview answer to Tell me about Yourself

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.

Text of sample interview answer to Tell me about Yourself for entry level

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.

"Tell Me About Yourself" - what not to do

Hiring managers list the most common mistakes candidates make when answering this question.

Recite what is 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 Describe Yourself in One Word.

How do you answer"Why should we hire you?"

be very specific that you can do the work required and deliver the right results
what sets you apart from other job candidates
your strong cultural fit with the team and company

This question can be tricky to answer confidently. We show you how to do it.

Find great sample interview answers at Why Should We Hire You?