Interview Basics: How to answer the ‘Tell us more about yourself’ Question

An opportunity to market yourself and your skillset, the dreaded question ‘tell us more about

yourself’ is your gateway to convincing your potential employer that you’re worth the risk. When it

comes to a competitive job market and making the most of job opportunities, this question is the

ideal way in which to make a positive impression.

A trick question that is often loaded with heightened expectation, potential employers use it to pin-

point weaknesses or risks that might affect their choice to hire the interviewee. It is also important

to understand that when asked to tell your future employer about yourself, you’re expected to

reveal information that highlights your value and skillset – the last thing that any employer wants to

hear are the details of your personal life, a story about your boyfriend who might be transferred, or

your devotion to your children. If you feel that it is important to highlight these details, there are

ways in which to convey the information to ensure that you are not compromised. In order to

ensure that you answer this question in a way that plays to your strengths, take a look at the

following:

What does the question mean?

When employment agencies or potential employers ask you to tell them about yourself, they want

to know about your values, experience and skillset. Although it might seem appropriate to offer up

an answer about your family life, where you live and what you enjoy doing on Sunday afternoons,

recruiters and potential employees do not appreciate it. The question is asked in an effort to filter

out any reasons as to why your employer might doubt hiring you for the position. It is also important

to remember that, whether we like it or not, this question is an inevitable part of the interview

process, and it serves a greater purpose. With this knowledge in mind, it is important to prepare an

appropriate answer for your interview – whether you prepare a short script and learn it off by heart,

or formulate a distinctive answer that you can recite, ensure that you are well prepared for this part

of the interview.

What not to say

‘My husband and three kids keep me very busy when I am not at work, and we’re currently awaiting

word on my husband’s transfer to Singapore. I love to read and cook, and am quite a quick learner.

For the last two years, I have worked for three different companies because I tend to get bored

easily. I left my last job because of the office politics. I am looking for something that offers growth.’

When your potential employer asks for you to share some of your personal information, it is

important to remain professional. Bad-mouthing your previous employer and colleagues is the first

step in the wrong direction. Sharing information about your family is always warming, but revealing

the number of children that you have, and your husband’s career choices, is not going to win you

any favour with the interviewers. They want to know that you are reliable and that you will be a

long-term asset for their company.

What do employers want to hear?

Potential employers want to feel secure in their decision to hire you. They want to rest assured that

you will contribute in a positive way, and that you will go the extra mile and fulfil their expectations.

This emphasises the fact that, when confronted with this question, you need to answer in a

professional and focused manner. Let’s review the previous statement and change it into something

that potential employers will want to hear.

‘My husband and I are dedicated to our respective professions, working hard to ensure that we are

able to provide the best for our children. We are a tight-knit family and enjoy quality time over

weekends. Over the past few years, I have managed to develop and maintain steadfast relationships

with thought leaders and influential industry professionals. I am dedicated to my role, my clients and

my responsibilities. I am a quick learner and I enjoy a challenge. When push comes to shove, I enjoy

the pressure and ensure that I keep my head down and my priorities in focus.’

Answering this question in an appropriate manner will ensure that you leave your potential

employers with a sense of direction and understanding regarding the person who might become a

part of their team. If you’re looking for more tips on the interview process, or simply need a hand

when it comes to graduate recruitment, be sure to contact PNET for relevant industry advice.

Has the video The Definite Do’s and Don’ts of Interviews been launched yet? There is only one way

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