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Interview Q's- "Tell me about yourself" |
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This seems like an easy and simple question until you have to answer it in interview. It's open-ended question, you could just talk about yourself, can't you? |
What the interviewer really wants is a two to three minute explanation of who you are and why you are the best candidate for the job you are applying for. So as you answer this question, you need to talk about what you've done in the past that has prepared you to be the very best candidate for this job. Your answer should leave the interviewer very clear that you can do the job, that you want to do the job, and if possible that you have been building towards this role for some time.
You should use an example or two, to demonstrate the skills and competencies you've developed to date. Examples can also be used to highlight personality characteristics, that are desirable for the job role. Remember that if you don't have evidence, by way of examples, what you say to the interviewer will be far less powerful. If you say, you are a problem solver then use an example from previous work or leisure experience. "I designed and facilitated extra skills-training sessions, and monitored performance every 3 hours instead of once daily. This helped us become a better team through eliminating ineffective behavious and we achieved record levels of success within three months."
Once you have completed your two to three minutes, ask them if they would like more details. If they say yes keep giving them more examples from your background and experience that will leave them in no doubt that you have the skills, knowledge and attitude required for the job.
This question is a real opportunity to sell yourself, and to use material that you have prepared before the interview to show you have done your research, have thought about the job, and that you are the right person for them. “Tell me about yourself” does not mean tell me about yourself, it means tell me about what makes you the best candidate for this job.
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