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Interview Question: Tell Me About Yourself (with Answers)
“Tell me about yourself,” is a common question you may encounter during a job interview. It serves as a starting point for the hiring manager to learn more about you and differentiate you from other candidates. Knowing how to respond to this question effectively can improve your chances of landing the job. In this post, we will discuss why hiring managers ask this question, different variations of the question, how to craft a compelling response, and provide examples of responses you can use as a reference when preparing for your interview.
Why do employers use the question, “Tell me about yourself”?
One of the primary reasons why employers ask the question, “Tell me about yourself,” is to kick-start the interview process and gain insight into your background, experience, and qualifications. This initial question allows them to understand your past accomplishments and credentials, which can help them assess your suitability for the job. Some interviewers may also use your response as an icebreaker to start a more informal conversation and get to know you better.
Variations of “Tell me about yourself” question:
In addition to the straightforward “Tell me about yourself,” interviewers may phrase the question in various ways, such as:
– “I have your resume here, but tell me more about yourself.”
– “Walk me through your resume.”
– “I would like to know more about your journey.”
– “Tell me a bit more about your background.”
– “Introduce yourself.”
– “Tell me something about yourself that is not on your CV.”
How should you respond?
Crafting an effective response to the question, “Tell me about yourself,” is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of the interview. Here are some tips to help you prepare your answer:
1. Discuss achievements and experiences relevant to the job:
Before the interview, carefully review the job description and identify the skills required for the position. Tailor your response by highlighting your recent experiences and accomplishments that align with the job requirements. Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure and deliver impactful stories during your interview.
2. Connect your current job to the position you are seeking:
If you are currently employed, discuss how your present role relates to the job you are applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences you have gained in your current position and how they are relevant to the new job. If you are aiming for a higher-level role, emphasize how you have taken on additional responsibilities in your current job. If transitioning to a role with different requirements, explain how your existing skills can be applied in the new position.
3. Highlight your skills and abilities with examples:
When sharing examples of your achievements, provide specific details and measurable results to support your claims. For instance, instead of stating that you improved customer service in a previous role, mention how you increased customer satisfaction ratings by a certain percentage. If you lack specific data, project a realistic estimate to demonstrate your impact.
4. Emphasize your unique qualities:
Use the opportunity to showcase your personality and interests that demonstrate your personal growth and accomplishments. Highlight any community involvement, hobbies, or talents that exemplify your character and values. Incorporating personal interests, such as reading, volunteering, or sports, can help humanize your responses while maintaining a professional tone.
5. Structure your response:
To deliver a clear and concise answer, consider organizing your response using a specific format. Two common structures you can follow are:
– Present, past, and future.
– Past, present, and future.
Examples of responses to “Tell me about yourself”:
Here are some sample responses that showcase how you can effectively present your skills and experiences in less than two minutes:
Example 1:
“I began my career in retail management, but my interest shifted to healthcare several years ago. I excel at leading teams and achieving shared goals, which led me to explore administrative roles. Over the past four years, I have built a successful career in health administration, focusing on office efficiency and patient outcomes. At XYZ Medical Center, I spearheaded the implementation of a communication system for scheduling procedures, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency. I enjoy collaborating with healthcare professionals and am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to ABC Health. Outside of work, I love hiking and reading.”
Example 2:
“Design has always been a passion of mine since my parents’ house renovation project during my high school years. Pursuing a degree in interior design allowed me to develop my skills further, which eventually led me to work for an interior design firm in Savannah, Georgia. Working on residential and commercial projects honed my design abilities and fostered relationships with local vendors. I am particularly drawn to projects involving historical structures and preservation techniques. I believe that my experience and passion for preservation will be an asset to your design team.”
Example 3:
“At XYZ Restaurant, I am currently working as a host, where I have refined my customer service and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment. Prior to joining the restaurant industry, I worked as a retail floor associate, gaining experience in customer service and teamwork. I am eager to further develop my customer service and problem-solving skills in the restaurant business. Your establishment’s reputation for exceptional customer service in a dynamic environment resonates with me. Outside of work, I enjoy baking and experimenting with mixology, which helps me refine my professional skills.”
In conclusion, the question, “Tell me about yourself,” is an opportunity for you to showcase your skills, experiences, and personality to potential employers. By preparing a well-crafted response that aligns with the job requirements and reflects your unique qualities, you can make a positive impression and increase your chances of securing the job. Use the examples provided as a guide to help you develop your own compelling story and stand out during your next job interview.
