For the purpose of kicking off in-person, phone, or video interviews, open-ended interview questions or prompts like “Tell me about yourself” are widely used. At every point of the interview process, from the phone screen to the final rounds. These queries are probably to come up. It is only natural to be confused by their ambiguity. And it can be difficult to figure out what the interviewer wants to know.
In this post, we present sample answers to “Tell me about yourself” interview questions as well as advice on how to respond in person.
The interviewer may begin by asking you a few “Tell me about yourself” questions to ease you both into the conversation. It gives the interviewer a quick overview of your education and experience while also letting them know the abilities and background you believe to be most pertinent to the job you’re seeking.
Despite the fact that it’s a popular interview topic, candidates are often confused or stumped by it. You can give off the impression that you are self-assured, able to handle pressure, and aware of the requirements for the position by providing a thoughtful response.
Some interviewers might use your response as an icebreaker to start a casual chat with you in order to get to know you better. Others, on the other hand, can ask another interview question right away after your response.
1. Several versions of “Tell me about yourself”
The question “Tell me about yourself” may be asked in a number of different ways, such as:
- Tell me more about yourself even though I have a copy of your resume in front of me.
- Describe your resume to me.
- To find out more about your journey, please.
- About your background, please tell me a little bit more.
- Indicate who you are.
- If it’s not on your resume, please tell me something about yourself.
2. Preparing your response
Even for routine interview questions, it might be challenging to start drafting your answer. These are some queries to ask yourself while you consider possible responses to help you stay on course.
2.1 Which of your qualities best suit this position?
As a candidate for this position, consider your unique selling points. Your years of experience, a highly sought-after expertise, your education, or your technical know-how might be the reason. Pay close attention to the job description and make a note of any areas where you go above and beyond.
2.2 What virtues will help you in this position?
Have you ever been particularly organized, for instance, in the eyes of friends or coworkers? Curious? Entrepreneurial? Generous? Consider how you perceive yourself or how others perceive you.
2.3 What distinguishes your background from others’?
This has been considered as one of the most typical interview questions. In order to get the interviewer’s attention when applying for a developer position, try to come up with anything that will grab their attention.
2.4 What draws your interest to the business or the sector?
The objective, goals, and industry trends should be clearer to you after you’ve done some research on the business and the sector.
As you begin to assemble your resume, make connections between your professional aspirations, the company’s long-term goals, and any industry trends you believe to be particularly crucial.
3. How to answer the question “Tell me about yourself”
The way you answer the opening question, “Tell me about yourself,” can determine how the interview will go. You should prepare your response by telling a compelling personal narrative that you can present in two minutes or less. Follow these steps in your response:
3.1 Describe your past professional experiences and achievements
The job description should be read again to start. Write down the abilities you need and highlight recent acts that have proven them. Though it would be ideal to draw mainly from recent professional experience, volunteer activity can help enhance your story while highlighting your dedication to your community.
3.2 Concentrate on your skills and qualities, and use examples to illustrate them
Start by concentrating on specifics and results that you can, if at all possible, quantify as you write the script for each example. Estimate a reasonable value if you don’t have the precise details.
3.3 Think about how the position you currently have relates to the one you’re after
Is it a senior-level position? If so, describe how you are increasing your position’s responsibilities. Describe how your current talents transfer to the new position if you are making a lateral transition into a role with different skills.
3.4 To start a conversation, show off your personality
It’s a good idea to share your personality with the interviewer since “Tell me about yourself” is meant to get to know you; however, avoid disclosing any personal information. You might want to briefly highlight any interests that show intellectual growth and/or civic engagement. Bringing up personal hobbies is an effective technique to end your response while still seeming professional.
4. Advice on how to respond to the question, “Tell me about yourself”
Here are some additional pointers to assist you respond to the interview question, “Tell me about yourself”.
4.1 Your initial impression is crucial
You hope to come across favorably and land the position. After the interview, the hiring manager will likely recall you, possibly differentiating you from other applicants.
4.2 Keep your tone formal
To help the interviewer grasp your views, refrain from using slang or unfamiliar words.
4.3 Exude emotion when speaking
Tell the interviewer how excited you are about the job.
4.4 Keep it upbeat
The time to bring up a former employer negatively during an interview is not.