How to answer “tell me about yourself”

Interviewer: “Tell me about yourself”

You start talking hoping that you are answering smoothly.

But you are nervous and overthinking things simultaneously on what to tell about yourself.

You think this question means telling about your hobbies, interest and why you chose this position, But this question is actually more than that.

Normally this question drains the energy out from most of the interviewees.

It’s a simple question but the answer to this question affects your whole interview.

That’s why when asked this question one could easily panic and not answer properly.

There are reasons companies ask this to every employee about themselves.

• How much confident they are speaking about themselves
• They want to know what work you have done in the field you are applying for
• Extracurricular activities that shaped who you are today

Many people fail to answer these questions for 3 main reasons:

1. Nervousness
2. Not enough preparation
3. Don’t know much about themselves

There is an easy answer to this question but you just have to deal with your nervousness and have to be confident.
For eg.,

The right way to answer this question is:

During my college, I had an interest to work in the marketing field and was already writing copies as a freelancer. After my college I joined a company as a social media executive where I enjoyed working there for 2 years. We created engaging social media content which led us to 10k followers within 4 months. After that I worked as a digital marketing executive for a year at my previous company where I learnt Google Analytics and gained traction through Google Campaigns. I even led a team of digital markers. The whole journey has been full of lessons, mistakes and results. Now I am looking to take my career to next level.

The wrong way:

I graduated from XX college. I loved playing basketball. I watched tv commercials which made me choose marketing field. I am from X city and moved to another city to study. My hobbies include reading.

Just to talk about your interest and hobbies and where you are from is not enough.

This is not a kindergarten question but a question which will help you get the job.

The 3 key things to remember when answering to “tell me about yourself is:

1. Talk about your past job experiences and what you learnt
2. Talk about your extracurricular activities you did in college
3. Talk about what you want to do in the current job.

This sums up the answer.

So, don’t panic and don’t dwell much on this question.

Before going to interview, make a list of things you enjoyed doing at job and your achievements and external activities.

Reflect back on what transformed you and why you chose the field you want to pursue your career in.
Be prepared and confident.