Many people find themselves entering into a professional job interview feeling confidant because they know they have all of the qualifications needed for the job, but as soon as the “tell me about yourself” question is asked they freeze and have no idea what to say, possibly costing themselves a job.

The most important thing to remember is that the interviewer’s job is to learn more about you and, more specifically, why you are best suited for the job above all the other potential employees. Bearing this in mind, when he or she asks you the “tell me about yourself” question which many interviewees dread, it is important to realize that the question actually being asked is: “Tell me the things about you that will show me that you are the most eligible candidate for this position.” As an interviewer it would not be professional to spoon-feed you, in a sense, by putting the question forward in such an expanded form. Thus we now have the true meaning of the question “tell me about yourself.”

With the meaning behind the question identified, you are now able to focus on a strategy for effectively answering the question in such a way that you stand out amongst all candidates and secure the position for yourself. The first and most obvious thing to do is focus on the job you are applying for. This may seem somewhat self-evident, but many people are swayed by the interviewer’s questions so much that they forget that they need to display as much professionalism as possible and actually forget to focus on the position. This is exactly the reason why many people are unable to answer the question “tell me about yourself”, they simply lose sight of the goal and focus more on impressing the interviewer with their personal aspirations and achievements, even when these have very little to do with the position they are applying for.

Overcoming this major mistake is easy to do; you simply bear in mind the position and what it entails, and answer every question with a focus on the job. This will automatically lead you to do the following;

- highlight your skills and education that have prepared you in such a way that you are the ideal candidate for the job

- highlight any hobbies or interests that are relevant to the job and demonstrate that you have a passion or enthusiasm for the position

- mention any past experiences, in both personal and professional capacity, that have groomed or in some way prepared you for the position

- mention any interactions that you have had or regularly have with the company or organization that shows a positive relation between you and the company you are being interviewed to work for

These simple tips will make any interview a productive and enriching experience for both you and the interviewer, as you will have answered the “tell me about yourself” question in the way that was intended and helped him or her to see why you are perfect for the job, ensuring that you are the candidate who secures the position.

More Interview Tips Articles
Learn more about Speech & Communication
Watch Speech Videos