“Tell Me About Yourself”: What NOT To Say
The “tell me about yourself” interview question is often one of the first questions an interviewer will ask and, some think, the most important. Answering this question sets a first impression, the tone for the interview and can literally sway the decision of the interviewer one way or the other. There is a reason why “tell me about yourself” is asked and we will discuss it here, as well as what you should NOT say.
Why Employers Ask “Tell Me About Yourself”
It’s important to understand why interviewers ask this question. It’s not a conversation starter, as most interviewees think. Interviewers use this question to gauge your confidence, your ability to communicate effectively, and how your background, skills, and ambitions align with the position and company’s goals. It’s a screening tool to assess if you’re a fit both professionally and culturally.
What Not To Say
Avoid Personal Overload
One of the most common mistakes is talking too much about personal details. For example, “I was born and raised in….” Or, “I have 5 siblings ….” While it’s important to convey a bit of your personality, oversharing about non-professional topics can detract from your professional qualifications. Stick to relevant personal details that might intersect with your professional life, such as hobbies or interests that demonstrate skills relevant to the job.
Steer Clear of the Resume Recap
Another pitfall is regurgitating your resume. The interviewer has likely already reviewed your resume and is looking for a better understanding of your background and interests. Instead of listing past job titles and responsibilities, focus on your what you have learned and how those experiences have prepared you for the position you’re applying for.
Don’t Undersell Yourself
Modesty might lead you to downplay your achievements or not mention them at all. However, this question is an opportunity to highlight your strengths and what you bring to the table. Without coming across as arrogant, be sure to confidently share your accomplishments and the unique skills you can contribute to the team.
Avoid Negative Language or Topics
Negativity, whether about past employers, colleagues, or even yourself, is a red flag for interviewers. Speaking poorly of others can come across as unprofessional and raise concerns about how you handle challenges and conflicts. Focus on the positives, such as what you’ve learned from challenging experiences or how you’ve grown professionally over time.
Skip the Clichés
Responses filled with clichés or generic statements can make you seem unoriginal and forgettable. Avoid phrases like “I’m a hard worker” or “I’m a team player” unless you can immediately follow them up with specific examples that illustrate these qualities in action.
Don’t Wing It
Unpreparedness can lead to rambling, irrelevant information, or, conversely, overly short and uninformative answers. Take the time to prepare a thoughtful, concise response that tells your professional story in a way that is relevant to the position and company you’re interviewing with.
Avoid Being Too Vague or Generic
While you don’t want to get lost in the weeds with overly technical details, being too vague can also be detrimental. Provide enough specific examples to give the interviewer a clear picture of your skills, experiences, and how they apply to the role you’re seeking.
Summary
The “Tell Me About Yourself” question is an opportunity to set the tone for your interview and make a memorable first impression. By avoiding things like personal tangents and resume recaps you can craft a response that positions you as a compelling candidate. Remember, this question isn’t just about summarizing your past; it’s about showcasing your potential to contribute to the future success of the company.
See Also:
- How To Write A Thank You Email After An Interview
- 5 Illegal Interview Questions And How To Answer Them
This article is intended for informational purposes only. It provides general information and is not intended and should not be construed as professional advice. The author is not your attorney, accountant, financial planner or any other professional and no professional-client relationship is created. We do not represent that the information provided is accurate or up-to-date as laws and regulations are always changing. If you have an issue that requires professional help, you should contact the appropriate professional. Please read the Terms and Conditions for additional information.