The Power of a Strong Opening: Answering "Tell Me About Yourself?"

"Introducing yourself is like writing a story. You have to start with a strong opening that hooks the reader's attention."

The "Tell me about yourself" question is often seen as a mere formality, but it's actually a crucial moment in the interview process. It's often said that first impressions are everything, and that couldn't be more true when it comes to job interviews. You might be thinking, "But it's just a simple question! How much can my answer really impact the interview?" Well, the reality is that the answer you give to this question sets the tone for the rest of the interview.

Key Points to Keep in Mind when answering the "Tell Me About Yourself" Interview Question.

Do not recite your resume again!

One common mistake that many candidates make when answering the "Tell me about yourself" question is simply reciting their resume. This is a big no-no. Keep in mind that your interviewer has already reviewed your resume and likely has it in front of them during the interview. They don't need you to repeat what's already there.

Unveil your Unique Selling Point (USP).

Remember that your USP is not just about your qualifications or achievements. It's also about your personality and how you approach work. Are you a problem-solver who thrives under pressure? Are you a creative thinker who is always looking for new solutions? Whatever your strengths may be, make sure to highlight them in your answer.

Tailor your answer to the position.

Show the interviewer why you're the best fit for the job by drawing on your experiences and achievements that match the job requirements. By tailoring your answer to the specific job, you'll demonstrate your interest and commitment to the position, and make a strong impression on the interviewer.

Keep it professional by striking the right balance.

It's important to strike a balance between being personable and professional. While you want to showcase your personality and highlight your strengths, it's essential to avoid oversharing or getting too personal. Remember that you're there to present yourself as a qualified candidate for the job, so keep your answer focused on your relevant skills and experiences.

"The art of introducing oneself is not only in the words, but in the confidence and authenticity behind them."

Based on our recent poll conducted on LinkedIn, it was found that 50% of the participants prefer to offer an honest career pitch as their go-to strategy when responding to the question "Tell me about yourself."

Read our previous blog: The Search for Meaningful Work: Finding Your True Calling and follow our other Newsletter: Deep Career Conversations

We also invite you to visit and learn more about our program - Career Enablement Program.

We wish you a Good Luck for your next interview!