I recently wrote about the “tell me something about yourself” job interview question. In that article I included a few thoughts on how to answer the “how would you describe yourself” variation an interviewer might ask you.But there is more to answering the question, since interviewers may be looking for a slightly different type of response. And I want to give you a sample answer to help you prepare for that too.Example of how you might answer describe yourself question
When answering this question, some interviewers will be fine if you follow a similar answer technique discussed in my other article, but I want to give you a sample of a slightly different way to answer that more directly addresses the “describe yourself” part of the question.Instead of leading with your experience each time, you can lead with some personal characteristics, attitudes, your approach to things, etc. And then follow up with a good example of that personal description in action.Here’s a sample answer a job seeker might give. Of course, you would base yours on your own qualities, experience and the job you want.- “Interesting question. (smile) Let’s see … Well, I think of myself as smart, loyal and dedicated. I really enjoy solving problems, especially problems that other people haven’t been able to solve. When I worked at ABC Company, we couldn’t get the order department to communicate well with the fulfillment department. By doing x, y and z I figured out that we needed to change the way order notifications were processed. That felt great! I did something similar in DEF Company where I was able to come up with a way to streamline the customer feedback system.” (NOTE: Make second story short; they can follow up if interested.)
- “I also like to see something through to the end if possible. Again at ABC Company, my boss gave me a new project before the order problem solution was implemented. He told me I could hand it off at that point if I wanted, but I asked if I could stay involved in an advisory capacity until fully implemented, to make to sure the problem actually got solved.”
- “One of the reasons I’m so excited about this job opportunity, is that it gives me the chance to really dig in and use my problem-solving and follow-through skills to help you and your team improve product delivery operations. I would love that.”