“Tell Me About Yourself”
When I was searching for a job I anticipated this question. I had my answer prepared.
If you’ve ever interviewed, you’ve probably gotten America’s LEAST favorite question, “Tell Me About Yourself.” Most applicants HATE it, because they don’t know how to answer and, usually, it comes at the start when logically, the interviewer doesn’t know anything about you. Let everyone else blow this one! If you have a killer answer ready, you can sew up the interview right here. When I was searching for a job I anticipated this question.
How To Answer The Question
Here’s your formula to shine: Before every interview, make a list of the qualities & skills they need for the position, then give specific examples of how you possess those traits. You want to show them that you are exactly what they need.
You can’t use just a list of words because people forgot words — that’s why we all make grocery lists. Actually, words are only 10% of our true communication, while your voice — the way you use your words — represents 20-25%, and the largest chunk, 65-70% is your image and body language. Since people believe what they see, you have to paint them a picture of how your skills meet their needs by reassuring them that you’re a great fit.
Suppose you’re interviewing for an administrative assistant position, with responsibilities including answering phones, taking messages, returning calls, and flexibly executing any/all assignments. Your most effective approach is to tell stories about similar past experiences. “I’m good answering the phone, taking messages and making calls” will be easily forgotten. What detailed, distinctive examples can you offer to show you’ve got the goods?
Prepare to impress at your interview by making a list of 8-10 specific examples of when you worked really hard (on the job, through volunteer work, in school, extracurriculars, etc.) utilizing the skills they need. Interviewers are smart, but they’re not mind readers — they’ll only know what you tell them. And if YOU don’t reassure them you’re a great fit for the job, someone ELSE will, and THEY’LL be hired.
summarized from http://galtime.com/article/money/43161/13584/most-feared-interview-question
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