How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself"
The most common interview opener, and a simple way to nail it as a graduate.
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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.
Frequently asked questions
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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