So… Tell Me About Yourself

Though it sounds simple, this question can make many interviewees sweat. You may wonder what a hiring manager or employer is looking for and how you can answer this question in the right way. What you need to remember is that even though you may feel the urge to give your life story, an employer is not looking for very much personal information. The best way to talk about yourself in an interview is to explain how you’re a great match for the job. Here’s how.

How to effectively answer this popular interview question       

Your answer to, “Tell me about yourself” can set the tone for the entire interview. It can give a potential employer clues to your values, work ethic and how you envision your future. So to adequately introduce and establish yourself, you may want to include the following:

  • Information about your past experience. You can include a brief snippet of where you’ve come from. This could include your college education, a past job that has prepared you for the job you’re interviewing for, or an overview of your past work history, if it’s applicable.
  • What you’re doing right now. What is your current job, and what do you like about it? Remember to include information that also helps establish you as a good match for the new position. For example, if you were a nurse and really enjoyed helping people, and are applying for another nursing position, your compassion is a good thing to mention.
  • What you’d like to do in the future. Obviously, you’re not perfectly satisfied with your current job, or else you wouldn’t be applying for a new one. That’s why you should close your answer with a brief explanation of why you’ve chosen to apply to this job. You could say that you are looking forward to learning new things, exploring a different branch of your industry or finding a position that better aligns with your career goals. Whatever it is that showcases your dedication to your career and motivation to learn and grow is the right way to frame your closing.

Preparation is everything

Don’t let yourself get stuck in the hot seat. Since this question is an obvious way to get to know you, an interviewer will most certainly ask it. You can help yourself stay calm and confident by preparing your answer ahead of time.

Are you currently in search of a new job?

Once you’ve brushed up on your interview skills, you’re ready to start your job search! And there’s no better source for an exciting new positon in the Atlanta area than Snelling Georgia Group. We’ll work with you for a job that fits into your career plan. To learn more, contact one of our recruiters today.

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