"Tell Me a Little About Yourself"

Well done!? You have landed the interview, now what?

The dreaded "tell me about yourself" is only four words, but, by most accounts it might as well be 100.? The simplicity of the sentence can lull one to become overly confident causing a mish mash of words strung together but with no real information.

I’ve prepped thousands of people for interviews and now coach people who are going through a career transition on how to respond.? There are many schools of thought out there from super slick personal branding statements to a fairy tale version of success. Keep it simple and informative.?

This is what I recommend – tell them a short story about you.?

People, well most people, like a story because it is more interesting than rattling off a list of schools and projects and skills. You'll get to those things, but, you have to capture their interest right off the bat.

Here's how to craft a winning response:

1. "Create the “hook:” When did you realize that this is what you wanted to do and why?? OR...What happened in your work life along the way that got you to this point in your career life?? Did you plan it?? Was it by accident?? Grab their interest.
2. Tailor It: Research the company and position. Weave how your “hook” opening, experiences and professional goals are most relevant to the job description.
3. Start Strong, End Relevant: Open with a confident statement showcasing your career path and a key strength. Briefly mention your academic background if it ties to the role. Conclude by expressing your interest in the specific opportunity.
4. Show, Don't Tell: Back up claims with achievements. Briefly describe a past success that demonstrates a relevant skill for the job. Share an example or two about why you love what you do and how your accomplishments will support success in this new role.
5. Keep it Concise: Aim for 2 minutes. It's an intro, not your autobiography.
6. Practice Makes Perfect:

• Write down what you think you should say.
• Read it aloud.? Is that how you would really say it?? No?? Rewrite it.
• Now read it again aloud.? Still not quite right?? Wordsmith it.
• Once you “find your voice” and what you have written matches how you speak, read it aloud 50 times – even better 100 times.?
• Make sure there is clarity and avoid rambling.
• This builds “muscle memory” like a dancer or singer who get out there and everything just flows.? Why can they do that?? Because they have practiced, practiced and then practiced some more. It's like breathing for them.

By following these tips, you'll transform "tell me about yourself" from a hurdle to a launching pad, showcasing your strengths and setting the stage for a successful interview.

***Kitty Warren is an expert in career coaching, recruiting, workforce management and career strategy with over 30 years in the recruiting and staffing industry.?She is a nationally published author and speaker on talent-related topics for candidates and the employers who need them

?

?