\n
1\u00a0\u00a0Tell Me About Yourself<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Applying for a job at McDonald\u2019s? The interviewer will ask you to talk about yourself.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Applying for a job at Goldman Sachs? Same thing.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
It\u2019s universal, and it\u2019s difficult to provide a satisfactory answer.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Alternative Versions of Typical Interview Questions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n- Describe yourself in three words.\u00a0<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
What are they actually asking?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n- Tell me about your\u00a0professional self<\/strong>\u00a0and how you would\u00a0fit in with the company<\/strong>.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a two-part, general interview question. Who are you as a professional? What makes you a good fit?<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n
Your Three-part Answer\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n
(Example Based on Answers to Job Interview Questions for Graphic Designers)<\/em><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n
\n
\n\n\n| RIGHT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n |
\n\n| Part One \u2013 Your Professional Persona<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI am a graphic designer with five years of experience in the fashion industry.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n It\u2019s good to tell the interviewer how long you\u2019ve been working and for whom. You\u2019re providing lots of information. How much experience you have. What kind of work environments you\u2019ve experienced. What industry knowledge you might have.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n| Part Two \u2013 What Makes you Stand Out (2-4 points)<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI am a team leader and coordinate the work of small groups of graphic designers and copywriters (between 3-5 people). I am diligent about keeping up with the latest technology and design trends. That\u2019s why my boss chose me to spearhead our global re-branding initiative.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Here you will want to tailor your answers to the job interview question. Mention accomplishments and skills that you know are relevant and valuable. Where do you find that information? Read the job offer and research the company and people with similar positions.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n| Part Three \u2013 Why You\u2019re Going to Fit<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nWhile I enjoyed my previous work, it\u2019s a dream of mine to work for your company. I admire the work you do, especially the XYZ project and the ABC project. I would like to be a part of projects like these.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Notice how the interviewee listed two of the company\u2019s projects. The interviewee has done their homework and is familiar with the business. That tells the interviewer that this person is in tune with the company\u2019s goals and needs.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n \n\n\n| WRONG<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| The story of your life<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nWell, I was born in 1983 to Presbyterian parents in Indianapolis, Indiana. I am the second of three children. We lived in a large two-storey house with a yard, and we had a Jack Russell Terrier named Spot. When I was three, I was magnificent at coloring. I never went outside the lines in my coloring books. And that brings me to why I\u2019m a graphic designer and want a job at your company.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n You are not interviewing with your biographer, and you are not on a date. While this classic job interview question is intentionally vague, the context is not. It\u2019s a job interview \u2013 talk about the job!<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n While this classic job interview question is intentionally vague, the context is not. As Meg Guiseppi points out, it\u2019s a job interview \u2013 talk about the job!<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n When someone asks you to tell them about yourself, you\u2019ve been given a golden opportunity to communicate your well-rehearsed personal brand positioning statement. Keep it short (2-3 sentences), make it memorable, and generate chemistry. Give them a feel for what you\u2019re like to work with, and how well you\u2019ll fit their company culture.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here\u2019s some sample interview questions for you to ask the interviewer:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Can you tell me about the job?<\/em><\/li>\n
- What does a typical day look like at the company?\u00a0<\/em><\/li>\n
- What kind of tasks will be my primary concern?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n Pro Tip:<\/strong>\u00a0If you\u2019ve worked for a prestigious or well-known company, you can name drop during this job interview question. \u201cI used to work for Coca-Cola.\u201d You will impress the interviewer, and they will think that you must be good if you worked for a big, fancy company.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n 2\u00a0Why Should We Hire You?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Level of Difficulty<\/em>\u00a0\u2738 \u2738 \u2738 \u2738<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n For the most part, the whole interview is about this question.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Everything you say during your job interview should explain why the company should hire you. The recruiter may also ask you this standard job interview question point blank.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Alternative Versions of Typical Interview Questions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Why are you the right candidate for the job?<\/em><\/li>\n
- What makes you the best choice for the position?<\/em><\/li>\n
- What value would you bring to the job?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n What are they actually asking?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Are you the best person for the job?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n The interviewer wants to know that you\u2019re the most talented candidate and the best fit. They also want to make sure you\u2019re the right investment.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Your Answer\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n (Example Based on Answers to Job Interview Questions for Teachers)<\/em><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n\n\n| RIGHT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| Your top achievements and successes tailored to match the job requirements.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI have years of experience balancing core curriculum requirements. Test scores increase and students gain an appreciation for the subject matter. I also have a track record coordinating large projects with other members of staff. During my second year of teaching, we established an annual fundraising event. The event brings in enough money each year to fund equipment for the school\u2019s labs.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n| WRONG<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| A list of random strengths that you recite off the top of your head.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI have good people skills, and I work well with others. I\u2019m good at motivating the children to learn. I\u2019ve got some experience working with children with special needs. I have experience preparing the curriculum. Yeah.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n But how do you know which achievements to highlight? What\u2019s going to impress the interviewer most?<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n Why should we hire you? If you only prepare for one interview question, this should be it. The best way to ready yourself is by researching the role requirements and asking yourself how your experience matches up. Don\u2019t forget to address the areas where you lack any desired skills, as you will be required to show how you will neutralize your weaknesses later.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here\u2019s some sample interview questions for you to ask the interviewer:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- I noticed xxx, could you tell me about that?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n When you get this question, you can attempt to offer a solution for one of the company\u2019s pain points.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Think back to your research. Did you notice anything that would point to the company hiring someone to address an issue?<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Ask a couple of questions to confirm that there\u2019s an issue. Once you\u2019ve done that, have answers ready that prove you\u2019re the person that can provide solutions.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Pro Tip:<\/strong>\u00a0Don\u2019t be humble. Tell the interviewer why you\u2019re the right person and back it up with real achievements and success.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n Describe What You Do in Your Current Position<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Level of Difficulty<\/em>\u00a0\u2738 \u2738<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n The good news.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n You know what you do at your current job. So, preparing an answer for an open-ended interview question like this isn\u2019t going to take too much effort.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n At the same time, if you want to provide a great answer \u2013 and you do \u2013 you\u2019ll need to tailor it to the position.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Alternative Versions of Typical Interview Questions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Have you done this type of work before?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n What are they actually asking?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Why would an interviewer ask you this general job interview question if they read your resume?<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n First, it\u2019s one of the possible job interview questions to prepare for that puts most candidates at ease. Second, the interviewer may want more details than what you\u2019ve put on your resume.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n But don\u2019t list every boring responsibility and task you\u2019re required to perform during a work day.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Instead, provide an answer that shows you\u2019re familiar with the type of work you will do in your new position.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n This is also the perfect opportunity to highlight strengths and achievements. The employer wants to know if you can do the job, so emphasize how you\u2019ve used the skills mentioned in the posting. Be sure to include one thing you\u2019re proud of accomplishing. Your enthusiasm should shine through. Remember, employers don\u2019t hire based on skills only. They want someone who is passionate about the work they do.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Your Two-Part Answer\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n (Example Based on Answers to Job Interview Questions for IT Systems Technicians)<\/em><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Let\u2019s start by taking a look at a job description for an IT Systems Technician.<\/strong><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Ability to\u00a0work on a team<\/strong>\u00a0with\u00a0excellent communication skills<\/strong>.<\/em><\/li>\n
- Ability to install, configure, and maintain routine and customized hardware and software<\/strong>.<\/em><\/li>\n
- Experience with\u00a0Microsoft Active Directory<\/strong>, administration, creation of user accounts and Internet email.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n\n\n| RIGHT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| A brief description of relevant responsibilities with a focus on tangible results.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nIn my current role as an IT Systems Technician, I work on cross-functional teams. I work with systems engineers and programmers to provide technical help and support. I also customize software to fit the company\u2019s needs, resulting in cost savings. I work daily with Microsoft Active Directory.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n \n\n\n| WRONG<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| A list of boring activities that are common to anyone who holds a similar position.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI spend my days installing software. I make sure everyone has up-to-date malware, firewall, and virus protection software. I ask people if they tried turning their computer off and on again.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The job description called for the candidate to have teamwork and communication skills. So, the interviewee will want to emphasize these skills throughout the interview.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Next, the candidate needs to have experience with customized hardware and software. So, she mentions that she customizes software and adds that her work has resulted in cost savings.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here\u2019s some sample interview questions for you to ask the interviewer:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- What will my day-to-day look like at your company?<\/em><\/li>\n
- Can you tell me a little bit about the team I will work with?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n Pro Tip:<\/strong>\u00a0If you saved or earned money for your company, back it up with numbers. If you\u2019re not sure how much, you can estimate as long as you can back up your claims.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n Why Did You Leave Your Last Job?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Level of Difficulty<\/em>\u00a0\u2738 \u2738 \u2738 \u2738 \u2738<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Why did you leave your last job? Because I got fired.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Depending on the honest answer, you might find it tricky to explain why you left your last job.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Some candidates will have it easier. You want the job. It\u2019s your dream job! So, you\u2019re leaving your current position.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Others will have a harder time. You got fired, laid off, downsized, or demoted. You\u2019re not happy with your current position. You have\/had a bad boss. The hours are too long and the work is too demanding.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Also, expect to provide an explanation if you have the following on your resume:<\/strong><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Career Gaps<\/li>\n
- Bouts of Long-term Unemployment<\/li>\n
- Job Hopping<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n Alternative Versions of Typical Interview Questions<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n- Why are you leaving your current job?<\/em><\/li>\n
- Why are you looking for new work?<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n What are they actually asking?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n The \u201cwhy did you leave\u201d job interview question is straightforward. The interviewer wants to know why and how you left your last job.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n They are checking to see if you\u2019re loyal, trustworthy, and reasonable.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The only way to answer this frequently asked interview question is to tell the truth. You have to work on the best way to present the information.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The worst thing you can do is slander your former employer.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n Never badmouth your former employer when explaining why you left your last position. Even if the truth is that they were horribly executing a business strategy or failing to uphold a healthy culture, be diplomatic. Your future employer wants to see that you can be respectful, even if difficult situations and conflicts arise. An interview is not the time to vent about past grievances!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Your Two-part Answer\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n (Example Based on Answers to Job Interview Questions for Nurses)<\/em><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Your answer should include both how and why you\u2019re no longer working at your previous job.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how to answer the job interview question if you\u2019re still employed:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n\n\n| RIGHT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| You like your old job, but you\u2019re ready to move on to new opportunities and challenges.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI\u2019ve been with General Hospital for almost three years now. I love the team of nurses and doctors that I work with every day. I\u2019ve had the privilege of training half of my team \u2013 five other RNs. At the same time, I\u2019ve always wanted to work as a Registered Nurse at Miracle Memorial Hospital. I\u2019ve always admired its innovative caretaking practices. I want to expand my knowledge and capabilities as a nurse and I can do that at Miracle Memorial.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Notice how the interviewee praises her team at General Hospital. She also talks about her achievements (training a team of five people). She then talks about how she has always wanted the job at Miracle Memorial. She finishes by mentioning that the opportunity will expand her knowledge and capabilities.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n \n\n\n| WRONG<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| You hate your job and your boss is a jerk.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \nI can no longer condone the work done at General Hospital and my boss and I fight like cats and dogs.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n Here\u2019s how to answer this tough interview question if you\u2019re not employed:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/p>\n \n \n\n\n| RIGHT<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| The real reason why you left told in a positive and proactive way.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \n | | | | | | | | | | |