Tell me about yourself

job interview questions and answers

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. 

In any kind of interview, most of us face this statement. The first  question generally asked is- tell me about yourself. So, what should be your best response? Most of the time, we are not ready and we just stuck hesitating and thinking. Remember your employer or hiring manager will not wait much for this. He or she will decide within the first 3 minutes whether to hire you or not. 

job interview questions and answers

Why you struggle with this question?

The reason is your life is a "story full of history" and you are just confused about what part of this story is to be revealed. I mean you can't make out quickly which aspect of you is being wanted to know. 
See, Tell me about yourself means he or she is not asking about your whole life history, your family, your hope, your pet, your likes and, dislikes. 

Tell me about yourself means "What value could you bring in to their company?" Means what skills you have that could solve their problem. So, next time, I think, you will keep this in mind. Just be specific and, tell them your previous experiences and how your skills can benefit them. If you don't have previous experiences, then you can share your theoretical knowledge on the things relevant to their company or organization. 

job interview questions and answers

Next important things:

Being Yourself

Most of the time a candidate tries to become more authentic. Again being authentic means you are presenting your true self. Nothing fake in it. But your authenticity if, can't solve their problem, is of no use. So, always make sure that whatever statement you deliver must adhere to their requirements. Always ask yourself the question- "What's in it for them?" and proceed with your statement. 

Your success, strength, and situation. 

Firstly you should begin with "I have been working as a.......for the last 3 years as a ........ helping people, businesses, etc. with........." This will reflect your success, your familiarity with the skills relevant to them. 

Secondly, you should begin like " My actual strength is the ability to...................." This will demonstrate your expertise on the matters relevant to them. 

job interview questions and answers

Lastly, you must begin like- "What I am looking for is........." This will show your self-developing attitude and willingness to learn new things and indirectly it will ask a question to the company if they have it for you or not. You will get a grip over the conversation and become comfortable with the situation.