Answering Interview Questions: "Tell Me About Yourself"

Whether you’re approached at a family gathering, networking event, or job interview – you are bound to be asked this at some point in your life. You know yourself better than anyone else – so, why is it that this question can seem so daunting? 

That’s because the question is so broad and open-ended. You can answer it a thousand different ways. Do you start with where you were born? Where you went to school? Your current job? Should it lean more professional or personal? There are so many ways to approach it.

I’m here to help you prepare with some Do’s and Don’ts on what to do in an interview setting.

• Do prepare your “elevator pitch” ahead of time.  This is the most common interview question, so you need to have your pitch ready, but without this sounding rehearsed or robotic. 
• Don’t read from a script. This should flow naturally and highlight things that have shaped who you are today. Make a list of things you are proud of in previous jobs and when it comes to the interview, highlight your impressive accomplishments.
• Do make add some personal touches. A February 2023 article, published in Forbes Magazine states that there is a formula for your elevator pitch:
  • 80% should be work related. 
  • 10-15% should be academic
  • 5-10% should be personal. 

While these percentages are not set in stone, it’s nice to have some parameters

• Don’t forget the “Past, Present and Future” formula. Start by talking about your relevant work history. Then move onto what your currently doing – whether it be job hunting, working, going back to school, etc. Finally, end it with what you are looking for in your next opportunity and why you are interested in moving forward with this company.
• Do tailor your pitch to your audience. Make sure you match the energy of the interviewer. This so important. Being overly excited or underwhelmingly monotone can make or break this initial question. Regardless, remain professional at all times.
• Do NOT go over 2 minutes. Less is more. The answer to this question is YOUR hook for the interview and should be concise, while still remaining interesting and intriguing.

We hope these simple tips help you rise to the occasion in your next job interview or social gathering!