One of the most common interview questions you can expect to be asked in an interview is "Tell me about yourself”. While it's a simple enough question, it can be tricky to answer concisely and effectively. However, it's also an excellent opportunity to make a great first impression and showcase your personality and attributes. So, what should you say?

Try to avoid generic responses

One of the most common mistakes people make when describing themselves is sticking to generic responses like hardworking, reliable, and driven. While these are terrific attributes, they don't add any unique insight to your personality. Instead, opt for specific attributes that set you apart. Think of instances when you demonstrated soft skills or qualities that make you stand out. For instance, did you work on a project that displayed your problem-solving skills? Tell the interview panel about it!

Share your achievements

Employers want to see proof of the skills and attributes you claim to have. Therefore, when describing yourself, mention some achievements that demonstrate your strengths. Whether it's completing a challenging project or fixing a process to save your employer some money, any win, no matter how small, is worth sharing. It shows that you can get things done and contribute positively to the company.

Focus on teamwork and collaboration

In most jobs, teamwork and collaboration are essential aspects of the work environment. So when you describe yourself, focus on past experiences working well with others. Highlight your communication, collaboration and leadership skills and give practical examples of working in a team environment. Doing so demonstrates your ability to work effectively with others, builds trust and can be a selling point in landing the job.

Call on your friends for their input and then use it to your advantage

Ask your friends what three words they would use to describe you and then put those words to work for you in the interview. Firstly, in the asking you will learn how people perceive you and what you represent to others. Based on their feedback, you can tailor your answer to showcase these qualities effectively. For example, if your friends describe you as reliable, detail-oriented, and hardworking, tying these attributes to relevant work experiences can make you sound like an exceptional candidate for the job.

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In summary, describing yourself in an interview can be challenging, but it's an excellent opportunity to showcase your strengths and attributes to impress the interview panel. While there's no one-size-fits-all response to this question, avoiding generic responses, highlighting achievements, focusing on teamwork, and using the three words your friends would use to describe you can help.

Remember, focus on being authentic and always back up your answers with practical examples. With the right preparation and a little confidence, you'll be ready to take on any interview question that comes your way.