One of the most common questions in an interview is the traditional ice breaker, “tell me about yourself”. This question can be tough for some, especially if you’re not one to brag about how great you are. It can also be hard to know what information to go into, and if you should stick strictly to your experience or sprinkle in some personal interests as well.
There are definitely things that you should be taking into account when you’re asked this question, and we’ll cover what they are in this article so you can be prepared.
How to Answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Question
Alison Doyle, writing for thebalancecareers.com, gave some tips to help you answer this question to better your chances of getting the job.
One option you have is to talk about some personal interests that aren’t directly related to your job .Any hobbies you might have like sports, art, or anything you are interested in is a good avenue to start. This can reveal your strengths to the interviewer. For example, if you are into
These general topics are a good way to show who you are beyond work-life, and they can also reflect how your motivations are within your personal life, which can be a plus!
Use the Present-Past-Future Formula
If you’re preparing for the interview ahead of time (you definitely should be!) you can use the Present-Past-Future formula to draft up a couple different key background points while ending on a high note.
- Begin with a brief overview of where you are now (Includes current job, passion, or hobby)
- Reference how you got where you are (Includes education or last job)
- Finish by touching on a goal for the future
This formula is a great way to start thinking and reflecting on yourself, which will help you be more prepared when that question comes up.
Tips for Giving the Best Response
Transition to Professional from Personal
Consider using phrases like “in addition to those interests and passions, my professional life is a huge part of who I am, so I’d like to talk about some strengths that I would bring to this job.”
Share Your Expertise
You should be sharing three to four personal qualities, skills, or areas of expertise which would prove you to be a qualified candidate for the position.
Be Careful Not to Overwhelm the Interviewer
Speak briefly about your assets at first, then be more specific and detailed in discussing situations, interventions, or results flowing from these assets.
Be Honest
Do not lie to your potential employer. You will be risking the whole interview, and if you get hired, you’ll be spending a lot of time pretending to be something that you’re not.
What Not To Say
There a few things that you should probably leave out when talking with your interviewer:
- Don’t share too much or too little information. You have to find the middle ground where the employer won’t think you’re holding back, but also won’t think you are oversharing.
- Avoid potentially contentious subjects like politics or religion.
- Avoid sharing deeply personal information about your family.
Leaving these sort of things out of the conversation will keep the interview more focused around the reason you’re there, which is for the job.
The “Tell Me About Yourself” question shouldn’t be a scary one. After all, it’s really a chance to show that interviewer who you are beyond the scope of a position that you’re applying for.
Giving that great first impression will set you up for a successful interview, as long as you’re prepared.
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