HOW TO FLAWLESSLY ANSWER THE 'TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF' INTERVIEW QUESTION

are our best tips for a great answer.

Written by Hannah Riley, Contributor on Jan 30, 2023 Reviewed by Alyson Windsor

The "tell me about yourself" interview question can be hard to answer if you're not prepared. Searching for a job, especially in a faltering economy, is stressful enough without adding in the awkwardness of answering such a personal, open-ended question.

You might feel stumped on how to answer this question because it can be difficult to talk about yourself with no guidelines. But speaking confidently about your successes can be much easier when you prepare your answers in advance. Here are our best tips for formatting and nailing your response.

Why do interviewers ask, 'Tell me about yourself?'

A job interview is all about getting to know you. Interviewers ask the "tell me about yourself" interview question as a way to transition from small talk into their technical and behavioral interview questions.

The interviewer wants to gauge if you are able to communicate clearly and professionally. Freezing up the first time you're put on the spot gives a bad impression.

The interviewer hopes the candidate can answer the question in a natural way that shows they are prepared and care about the interview. A great answer can help you stand out in a job interview.

If you're asked this question during a video or phone interview, you can have your answers in front of you. If the interview is in person, you should be prepared to answer without checking your notes.

Other ways that interviewers might ask this question

The "tell me about yourself" interview question sometimes sounds different. Interviewers might ask:

Tell me more about your background.

I'm interested in learning more about you.

Tell me about your time working at "x" company.

Can you tell me more about your experience?

Tell me something I don't already know from your resume. Be ready for any version of this question with your structured and practiced answer.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to tie it back to the specific job and company you're interviewing for. The answer should make the interviewer think it makes sense you are interested in the role.

Components of your answer

Your answer to the "tell me about yourself" question should describe your current situation, your past job experience, the reason you're a good fit for the role, and how you align with the company values.

Current situation

Breakdown: How to answer the 'tell me about yourself' interview question

There are many strategies for answering the "tell me about yourself" interview question. The way you choose to structure your answer may depend on your previous experience. A recent graduate will have a much different answer than a director who has been employed for decades.

While it's important to prepare your answer, you should also leave room for spontaneity and make sure it doesn't come out sounding too rehearsed.

Tell the interviewer about your current position and a recent big accomplishment or positive feedback you received. Avoid speaking negatively about your current job. The interviewer wants to hear how your current role is similar to the position you're applying for.

If you're currently a student, use this time to talk about relevant school experiences like classes you've taken, projects you liked, or internships.

Past job experience

Once you find a form that fits your experience the best, make sure you practice. Write down your answer so you can rearrange it, make sure it flows, and keep track of key points.

The interviewer likely has your resume in front of them, so don't just tell them what they already know. Use this question to touch on your past work history and highlight areas that are applicable to the position you have now.

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