It can be challenging for people to sell themselves in a job interview. They may feel uncomfortable that they will come across as bragging about their accomplishments and being perceived as possessing a big ego.
Some people feel that their résumé and reputation should speak for themselves, and there is no need to go into great detail during the hiring process. Others may mistake the “tell me about yourself” question as offering a litany of what they’ve done from high school and onward.
The interviewers don’t want to be bored by your meandering life story. The key to answering the question is to specifically focus on sharing your top current responsibilities, recent past accomplishments and what you are looking to do next.
Reframe The Question
Think of the question in terms of, “Tell me about what you do at your job and why your background is right for this role?” The question opens the door for you to sell your background, skills, education, talents and current and past responsibilities that prove you could do all that is required in this new position.
Walk the interviewer through your daily responsibilities, projects you’re proudly working on, and some of your previous roles. Avoid going back 10 or more years. You should also add details about your education and interests. Remember that everything you say should relate to the position you’re interviewing for. Share only positive things. There’s no need to list your faults.
Don’t bring up your newspaper route in middle school. Hyperfocus on your current job and why your background and experiences are a great fit for your desired role. Match up how your skills, experience, background and other attributes are relevant to the job description requirements.
In answering this question, you can let your personality shine. You can bring up why you went into this field, why you enjoy and are passionate about what you do and share how switching jobs is an important step toward building and growing your career. You can mention hobbies, interests or projects outside of work as long as they are relevant to your career and the job you’re interviewing for.
However, it is important to tread lightly, as it is all too easy to get distracted and start oversharing past personal stories. Many people feel the need to give an information overload dump of everything they think the interviewer needs to know about them, their background and their personal life.
Here’s A Script To Help
Having a script can help guide and prepare for the interview. Tailor your response to your specific skills, experience and accomplishments. By being concise, highlighting your strengths and expressing your passion for the industry, you can make a positive impression on the interviewer and increase your chances of success in the hiring process.
Introduction
“Thank you for the opportunity to interview for this position. My name is [Your Name], and I am excited to tell you a little about myself.”
Professional Background
“I have [#] years of experience in [industry/field]. In my current role at [Current Company], I have been responsible for [list job responsibilities].”
Skills and Accomplishments
“I have developed strong skills in [skill 1], [skill 2] and [skill 3]. I am particularly proud of [accomplishment 1] and [accomplishment 2], which demonstrate my ability to [demonstrated ability].”
Education and Certifications
“I received my [Degree] from [University Name] and have also earned [Certification 1] and [Certification 2].”
Passion for the Industry
“I am passionate about [Industry/Field] and am excited about the opportunity to [goal or objective]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for this role.”
Closing
“Thank you for considering me for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to [Hiring Company Name].”
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