If you aren’t prepared, the “tell me about myself” interview question may be difficult to answer. It’s stressful enough to search for a job.
This question can make you feel confused. It is difficult to speak about yourself without any guidelines. It is easier to talk confidently about your achievements if your answers are structured.
These are our top tips for structuring and nailing your reply.
Interviewers often ask for information about themselves.
Interviews are about getting to know the candidate. Interviewers use the “tell me about myself” question to help them transition from casual talk to technical and behavioural interview questions.
Interviewers want to see if you can communicate clearly and professionally. It’s a bad impression to freeze up when you first meet someone.
Interviewers hope that the candidate answers the question naturally and shows interest in the job. An excellent answer will help you stand out in a job interview.
You can answer this question in a telephone interview. You should be ready to answer the question if you are in person.
Interviewers may also ask the question in other ways.
Sometimes, the “tell me more about yourself” interview question sounds different. Interviewers may ask:
- Please tell me more about your history
- I would like to learn more about you
- Please tell me about your experience at “x” company.
- Could you please tell me more about your experiences?
- Please tell me something that I don’t know about your resume.
Prepare for any version of the question by preparing a structured and practised response.
Breakdown: How to answer “tell me about you” interview questions
There are many ways to answer the “tell me about you” question. Your previous experience may influence the way you structure your answer. A director who has been in the job for many years will likely have a different answer to a recent graduate than one just starting.
It is important to plan your answer, but you must also allow for spontaneity.
After you have found the form that best suits your experience, practices it. Keep track of key points and write down your answers so that you can arrange them.
Whatever method you use, make sure you tie it back to what job you are applying for. Interviewers should feel that the answer is relevant to the job and are interested in it.
Your answer’s components
Answer the “tell me about myself” question by describing your current situation, past work experience, why you are a good fit for this role, and how your values align with the company.
Current Situation
Talk to the interviewer about your current job and any recent accomplishments or positive feedback. Do not speak negatively about your current job.