How to ace the number one question in

interviews – “Tell Me About Yourself” ​

Let’s craft an example using the job description below. ​
Sample Job Description:​
• Use a variety of technical skills, soft skills, and industry knowledge to develop applications
and systems.​
• Expertise in C, C++, Java, Python, JavaScript, C#, PHP​
• Use analysis and critical thinking skills to determine and assess the needs of the user and
then create software to meet the requirements.​
• Ability to collaborate and provide clear instructions to the project team, clearly explaining
how the software looks to the customer. Available to answer any questions using exceptional
communication skills.​
• Apply keen attention to detail and organizational skills to work on numerous parts (time
management) of a system or application at the same time while being accurate and
thorough.​
• Able to work well and collaborate with others on a team of Designers, Developers, and
Programmers using effective interpersonal skills.​
• Able to efficiently identify and resolve issues during the design, testing, and maintenance
process using strong problem-solving skills. ​

Example Response: ​
“So, tell me about yourself…”​
“Thank you for asking. I would describe myself as a collaborative and solution-driven software
engineer with over two years of experience working with designers, developers, and
programmers holding a degree in Computer Science from Purdue University. ​
I’ve already contributed to over a half dozen projects and assisted with managing a project for
one of our firm’s long-time clients. ​
Something I’ve enjoyed and has been able to use in my current role is leveraging my
experience in tech support to help identify and resolve complex issues. ​
And over the last year, I worked on several project teams using C++, Python, JavaScript, C#, and
PHP and recently started Java. Since this role asked for Java, I signed up and started an online
Java course to increase my knowledge as quickly as possible.​
I believe my experience has allowed me to hone my attention to detail and critical thinking
skills as well as enhance my communication skills working on team-based projects and with
clients. ​
In my last role in tech support, I received several commendations from customers where I was
able to identify and resolve their technical issues with clarity and ease. ​
I’m excited to collaborate on a team and apply my technical skills to develop applications and
systems along with contributing to your team in a way that positively impacts the organization
and your clients”​
See how we matched up the job description specifics with the response? ​

Note how in the example above, you didn’t see “I was born in” or “I grew up in,” types of
autobiographies. It boils down to: ​
Who you are​
“I’m a [characteristic description] [title] with [number] years of experience working with
[teams, functions, or industries] holding a [education].”​
How you got here​
“I’ve contributed to [types or number of projects], managed [types or number of projects],
and used my experience to [something from the JD they need you to do]. I’ve used [languages,
skills] and achieved [example of success, contribution, or something you learned].”​
Why you’re here​
“I’m eager to [what excites you about the role], apply my skills to [tasks, projects, or function],
and contribute to [positive outcome or goal of the team, company, etc.].”​
In a nutshell, remember these five steps: ​
1. Focus on the job you are applying to,​
2. Think about what makes you stand out, ​
3. Include your technical and soft skills that align with the role, ​
4. Mention past accomplishments, ​
5. End strong with how you can provide value to the company. ​
7 Traps: What To Avoid When Answering “Tell Me About
Yourself?” ​
We’ve all been guilty of one or more of these in the past. Let’s recognize them, note them,
and move on. ​
1. Please, I’m begging you, do not start with, “Hi, my name is…” Without fail, 99% of people
will start their answer this way. This isn’t necessary because…they asked you to interview.
They have your resume with your name plastered across the top (hopefully). Without fail
though, people state their name again. ​
2. Do not restate what is already on your resume. Sometimes, if the interviewer hasn’t read
your resume they may ask you specifically to review your resume. That is a completely
different question.​
3. Don’t ask them to clarify the question, “Do you want me to talk about my education,
personal life, or experience?” You should know exactly how to answer this question.​
4. Don’t reply with a modest or vague introduction that doesn’t communicate your strongest
qualifications for the position. Never shy away from selling yourself!​
5. Stay away from the personal side of your life when answering this question. This is not a date
or an invitation to tell your life story. ​
6. This can be longer than 30-seconds. You use your “elevator pitch,” when networking. They
call it an elevator pitch for a reason. You don’t have much time to answer so you need to be
succinct and straight to the point. You have more time in an interview, so use it. The rule of
thumb, however, is don’t go over 2 minutes.​
7. Try not to ramble. It happens when we get nervous, I know. Take a breath. Use the time to
provide enough information to give an overview of: ​
◦ What skills and experience do I have that align with the role? ​
◦ And how can I provide value to the organization based on my experience?” ​