# How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself"

The most common interview opener, and a simple way to nail it as a graduate.

Category: Interviews
Author: Tlangelani Khosa
Published: 2026-09-23
Tags: Interviews, Job Search

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It sounds friendly, but it is really "why are you right for this job?" Do not tell your whole life story.

## The formula: present, past, future

- **Present:** what you are doing now ("I just finished my BCom, majoring in...")
- **Past:** a bit of relevant background ("During my studies I led a project that...")
- **Future:** what you want next ("Now I am looking to bring that into a role like this one")

## Keep it tight

Under a minute. Relevant to the job. Confident, not a memoir.

## One tip

End on why you are excited about this role. It hands the interviewer the perfect next question. More: [common interview questions](/insights/common-graduate-interview-questions).

## FAQ

### How do I answer tell me about yourself?
Use present, past, future: what you do now, a bit of relevant background, and what you are looking for next. Keep it under a minute.

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Canonical page: https://www.flyquest.co.za/insights/tell-me-about-yourself-answer
Published by FlyQuest, South Africa's career platform for students and graduates.