How to answer “tell me about yourself” in a job interview
The classic interview question, "Tell me about yourself," is deceptively simple, but it's a question that could easily trip you up if you're not prepared.
It's an open-ended question with no right or wrong answer but it could be difficult to navigate. Answering this question well makes a good impression and sets the tone for the rest of the interview. Mastering it is important.
In this article, we will discuss how to answer this age-old interview question to make you stand out from the crowd and land your dream job.
- Preparing for the Interview Question
- Crafting a Winning Answer 4 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice, But Don't Memorize
- Best Answers to the "Tell Me About Yourself" Interview Question
- Answering Follow-Up Questions to "Tell Me About Yourself"
- Conclusion
- FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing for the Interview Question
Why Do Interviewers Ask, “Tell Me About Yourself”?
Before you answer "Tell me about yourself" in an interview, you should understand why interviewers ask the question. It's important for preparation. Focus on your skills, experiences, and career goals that are relevant to the job while still being personable.
Interviewers ask this question for four primary reasons:
- To form initial impressions of the job seeker.
Initial impressions matter in every human interaction, including in job interviews. In a study by Prof. Tricia Prickett and colleagues at the University of Toledo, Ohio, naive observers were able to predict the outcomes of a 20-minute interview by trained interviewers by looking at the first 20 seconds of the interview.
- Ease the job seeker in the interview.
"Tell me about yourself" questions help start interviews in a friendly way by getting the conversation going. job seekers should feel at ease discussing their work history and accomplishments. This question helps ease tension and leads to more detailed inquiries about the job.
- Inform the direction of the interview.
This question also serves as the starting point to inform the direction of the overall interview. Hiring managers will often use your answer to this question to figure out the next question. But you could also nudge the interview in your favored area.
- Check how you handle open-ended questions.
Open-ended questions are useful for evaluating your ability to communicate effectively. A clear and structured answer to this question will increase the interviewer's interest in your profile.
“Tell Me About Yourself” Examples
Interviewers often begin by asking, "Tell me about yourself" or "Tell us about yourself." Sometimes, they may phrase this question differently.
They may start with:
- “I have your resume in front of me but tell me more about yourself.
- “Walk me through your resume.”
- “I’d love to know more about your journey.”
- “Tell me a little bit more about your background.”
- "Can you give me a brief introduction about yourself?"
Identifying key skills and experiences to highlight
Identify your relevant skills and experiences for the job. Consider how they match the job description to increase your chances. Highlighting your skills and experiences will show the interviewer you're the right fit for the job.
Researching the company and tailoring your answer to the position
Studying the company and position lets you tailor your response to match what they're looking for. If the company values teamwork, make sure to emphasize your experience in collaborative environments.
Crafting a Winning Answer
Step 1: Build a strong opening statement to capture the interviewer's attention.
Try to have your opening statement be bold and powerful. While maintaining an upbeat tone, start by introducing yourself and your current position or education. Then, state your relevant skills and experiences that relate to the job.
Opening statement examples:
- "Hi, I’m currently a Senior Software Engineer at Telecom X, overseeing mobile app development for end-user applications."
- "I'm an experienced account manager at SaaS Inc. where I manage our top clients' accounts contributing over $1 million in revenue annually".
- "I’m an experienced sales representative with a passion for meeting new people and helping customers solve their pain points."
Step 2: Highlight relevant skills and experiences in a concise and engaging manner
When highlighting your skills and experiences, it's important to have a laser focus on the key points you want to touch on. Choose a few key skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position and discuss them in detail.
Step 3. Provide specific examples to illustrate your strengths
Citing specific examples will illustrate your strengths and elevate your response. When applying for a customer service job, share a story about how you went above and beyond to assist a customer. Share any positive feedback you received from the customer.
Step 4: Discuss your career goals and how they align with the company's mission and values
When discussing your skills and experiences, remember to also talk about your future career goals. Make sure to explain how your goals align with the company's mission and values. This shows the interviewer that you are passionate about the job and the company and showcases that you did your research.
Step 5: Emphasize your enthusiasm and passion for the position
Before wrapping up your answer, emphasize your enthusiasm and passion for the position. This will show the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in the position and the company. Avoid overkill and unnecessary compliments or it might seem like you’re a bootlicker.
4 Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Rambling or providing too much irrelevant information
A common mistake in interviews is talking too much or giving irrelevant information when asked to talk about yourself. Keep your answer concise and to the point.
Career and interview coach Leah Lambart, of Relaunch Me, cautions job seekers against this. “Employers don’t want to hear your life story, and they’re not interested in every job you’ve ever had.”
2. Don't complain about your previous job or boss
Avoid being too direct about tasks you dislike at work or reasons for leaving your old job. “Discussing problems that you’re having with your boss or your team will only raise red flags to future employers,” Lambart says.
3. Focusing solely on personal information or unrelated experiences
Another grave mistake is focusing solely on personal information or unrelated experiences. It's okay to share personal information that is relevant to the job.
However, focus primarily on discussing your work experience and skills in your response. This will help the interviewer understand your qualifications for the position. Remember to keep the conversation professional and job-related.
Bringing in hobbies or pop culture references is completely acceptable if they relate to the job or company. "I learned about medical procedures from Pinoy M.D. and now I want to be a nurse."
4. Neglecting to tie your answer back to the position and the company
If your answer is lengthy, tie your answer back to the position and the company so you don’t lose track of your points. Show the interviewer that you understand the role and how you could contribute to the company's success.
Practice, But Don't Memorize
Just like for everything else, practice makes perfect. Rehearsing your answer is essential to ensure a smooth delivery of your reply. This will also reflect that you’re well-prepared. Here are some tips and suggestions for practicing effectively.
Record yourself
Record yourself answering the "Tell Me About Yourself" question and watch the video to see how you come across it. This will help identify areas to improve and refine your answer to reach your preferred delivery.
Get feedback from others
If you are shy in front of a camera, rehearse your response with people you trust and ask for their feedback. This will help you see your answer from a different point of view and find ways to make it better.
You may also practice common interview questions using an online Interview Practice Tool on JobStreet. You may also receive professional advice through the tool. Additionally, you could record yourself to work on self-improvement.
Best Answers to the “Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Question
Here are some “Tell me about yourself” sample answers you mayKIV and adapt for your interview.
Answer 1: Focusing on Relevant Work Experience (Useful for Experienced Professionals)
Employers want to see how your skills and experiences can help their company, especially if you have experience. Start by giving a brief overview of your work experience and then diving into the specifics of how your skills and accomplishments make you an ideal job seeker for the position.
Example: "I’m a Marketing Manager specializing in digital advertising campaigns with five years of experience leading successful campaigns across multiple industries. My expertise lies in leveraging SEO, SEM, social media, email marketing, and content marketing to drive brand awareness, lead generation, and conversion rates.
In my current role, I developed and executed a successful social media campaign that increased our brand's online engagement by 50 percent. In my previous role at XYZ e-Commerce Ltd., I spearheaded several successful campaigns that delivered significant growth in website traffic and revenue.
Our digital paid search campaign in 2020 delivered 30 percent higher conversions at 20 percent lower cost compared to the previous year. To achieve this, we relied on a data-driven approach to keyword bidding to maximize high-intent traffic.
With ABC Inc. being one of the biggest digitally native start-ups in the Philippines, I believe my skills will be central to delivering on the company's objectives while presenting an opportunity to further learn and deepen my skills in this space."
Answer 2: Highlighting Transferable Skills (Useful for those looking to switch careers)
If you don't have direct experience for the position you're interviewing for, highlighting your transferable skills can help demonstrate your value as a job seeker.
Example: “I have a range of experiences and skills that have allowed me to develop valuable transferable skills applicable to various industries and roles. I obtained a degree in Business Studies from the University of Philippines Diliman where I honed my critical thinking and analytical abilities, which have been instrumental in my career, enabling me to grasp complex concepts and find innovative solutions to challenges.
I've had the opportunity to work in different industries, including Retail and Hospitality, which has given me a well-rounded perspective and helped me develop adaptability and versatility, and seamlessly transition between different projects, teams, and tasks.
One of my main transferable skills is effective communication. Throughout my career, I’ve been able to communicate complex ideas clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including colleagues, clients, and customers, which has been invaluable in facilitating productive collaborations, managing client relationships, and leading successful team initiatives.
Furthermore, I’m highly organized and detail-oriented with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality results. I’m adept at prioritizing tasks, allocating resources efficiently, and maintaining meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and precision in all aspects of my work.
Lastly, I’m a lifelong learner striving to enhance my skill set. I actively seek out new challenges and opportunities for professional development, enabling me to stay up-to-date with emerging industry trends and technologies.
I’m confident that I can leverage these skills to make a positive impact in this role and contribute to the continued growth and success of the company."
Answer 3: Demonstrating Passion for the Industry (Especially useful for fresh graduates)
Show your excitement for the job to set yourself apart from other job seekers, even if they seem more qualified on paper. This is particularly useful for fresh graduates, who may not have experience working in a particular role.
Example: “From a young age, I’ve been deeply passionate about the healthcare and medical industry. I pursued a degree in Healthcare Services from the University of Santo Tomasto to gain a solid foundation and formal knowledge in the subject which has provided me with a strong skill set, enthusiasm, and dedication to excel in this field.
What truly excites me about the healthcare industry is the prospect of being part of a team that develops innovative solutions, tackles complex challenges, and makes a real difference. It motivates me every day.
I’m also deeply invested in staying up-to-date with industry trends, advancements, and best practices. I regularly engage in professional development activities such as participating in workshops and pursuing relevant certifications. This commitment to continuous learning allows me to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
My passion extends to advocating for charity and philanthropy as well. I actively volunteer, participate in community events, and support initiatives that align with my values and passion. This allows me to contribute to the broader impact of healthcare and make a difference beyond the confines of my professional responsibilities."
Answer 4: Including Personal Background and Interests (Useful for those intending to leave a big impression)
Highlighting your background and interests can help you connect with the interviewer on a personal level. It’ll make your answers sound more natural and conversational. However, be sure to keep it professional and relevant to the position.
A great way to incorporate personal background in your answer is by following the W.A.P. method:
- Work: What is your current position? What are some examples of your responsibilities?
- Academics: What are your educational background and accomplishments
- Personal: What job-related interests do you have?
Example: "As a project manager at XYZ Software Inc. I oversee large-scale software development projects, including implementing new software systems and improving existing products.
I have a proven track record of leading large cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time, within budget, and with high quality. Recently, I oversaw a $100m Super App development program involving a team of over 600 engineers.
I’ve a bachelor's degree in computer science from De La Salle University where I received the prestigious Science fellowship. I’m also a PMI-Agile Certified Practitioner and am well-versed in both Agile and Waterfall methodologies of software development.
Outside of work, I volunteer at a local animal shelter, which taught me the value of teamwork, communication, and empathy – skills that I believe are crucial for success in this role."
Even if your hobbies are common, they can still paint a positive picture for the job you want.
Example: "I enjoy practicing yoga and meditation. It's helped me develop a strong sense of focus and discipline, which I believe have been instrumental in my success as a project manager. I'm excited to bring those same skills to this position."
Answering Follow-Up Questions to “Tell Me About Yourself”
Be prepared for the interviewer to dig deeper into your response. Expect and be ready for additional questions that may come up as they learn more about you during the interview.
- Can you tell me more about that experience?
- How did that experience prepare you for this role?
- Can you give me an example of how you demonstrated that skill in the past?
To prepare for these questions, consider specific moments from your past experiences and how they relate to the position.
Addressing the "Why Did You Leave Your Previous Job?" Question
Another common yet sensitive follow-up question that might catch you off guard is, “Why did you leave your previous job?". Answer it honestly and positively.
Think about the good parts of your old job, and talk about what you liked and learned. Then, say why you left or are leaving. You can also get more tips from the article on reasons for leaving a job.
Conclusion
"Tell Me About Yourself" is a key question in job interviews. The unemployment rate in the Philippines is increasing. So, career competition is stiffer than ever.
This question is a chance to present the best version of yourself. Highlight your strong points. Connect your career goals with the company's purpose and ethics. Show your passion for the job. This can set your response apart from others.
Here's a final tip for success. Practice and rehearse your answer. Do this while using feedback from others. Follow the tips and examples in this article. They will help you craft a winning answer. The answer will set you apart from other job seekers and help you land your dream job. Good luck!
How to Answer Job Interview Questions by SEEK - YouTube
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
We've covered the main aspects of answering the "Tell Me About Yourself" interview question. Now, let's address some common questions that job seekers have about this topic.
- What should I include in my answer?
You should include a brief introduction. It should cover relevant skills and experiences, career goals, and enthusiasm for the position.
- How long should my answer be?
Your answer should be brief and concise, ideally no longer than two to three minutes.
- Should I talk about personal information or just professional experience?
It’s important to strike a balance between personal and professional information. Highlight skills and experiences relevant to the position. Also, add personal details to add depth to your answer.
- How can I make my answer stand out?
Start with a good intro. Use clear examples. Link your response to the job and the company's culture and principles.
- What if I don't have much experience related to the position?
You can still highlight transferable skills. You can also mention relevant experiences. These include internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.
- Can I use the same answer for every interview?
While you can use a similar framework for your answer, it is important to tailor your response to each specific position and company.
- How can I practice and prepare for the question?
Practice by rehearsing your answer out loud, recording yourself, and getting feedback from others. Dig into the company's background and the job details to grasp what they need, so you can shape your response to fit perfectly.
- What if I get nervous during the interview?
It’s normal to feel nervous, but practicing and preparing can help alleviate some of that anxiety. Take deep breaths, focus on your strengths, and remind yourself that you’re qualified for the position.
- Should I memorize my answer?
While you should be familiar with your answer, it’s important to avoid memorizing it word for word. This can come across as robotic and insincere. Remember that you still want to relate to them as a human being first!
- What are some common follow-up questions and how should I answer them?
Extra questions might probe deeper. They might ask about particular experiences or skills. They might ask about your long-term career goals. Or, they might ask about your interest in the role. To respond well, give detailed answers. Relate your responses to the job and the company. Show genuine excitement to join the team.
