If you have ever been in an interview, then you have undoubtedly had to answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” question. It is so common that it is often neglected during our interview preparation. However, it is arguably the most important interview question as it sets the tone for the rest of the interview.
The way you respond to this question will decide the success of the interview and ultimately whether you will get the job.
If you can successfully answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” question your chances of getting the job increase tenfold.
When answering this question, there are two rules you should consider:
1. Don’t Tell Your Life Story
2. Do Tell Pertinent Info
The first rule is easy enough to follow. When the interviewee is unprepared, they often resort to answering the “Tell Me About Yourself” with the history of their life.
The interviewer wants to know about the second rule, but it begs the question, “What is pertinent info I should share, and how much should I say?”
To effectively answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” question, your response should be broken into five categories;
1. Recent professional achievements
2. Educational achievements
3. Applicable skills
4. Professional goals
5. Reason for interest in the company
Unless necessary, try not to go over 30 seconds per category. That gives you a solid 2 minute and 30-second presentation to start yourself out on the right foot. Try not to go less than two minutes and avoid going over 3 minutes.
Use the above tips and blow the hiring manager away.
