The 1st and foremost thing you hear when you enter the interview room is “tell us about yourself”. It may come across as the vaguest questions but it is a great opportunity to create a lasting impression on the interviewer. Your answer will make an impact and set the tone for the rest of the interview.
So, one needs to draft it in such a way that it creates a lasting impression. So, here sharing some simple ways to help you answer this question efficiently and impressively with instances to demonstrate.
Before answering the question, it’s important to understand why is the question asked. The interviewer wants to understand what is your background, what skills you possess, and how you present yourself. This is your chance to shine and to showcase your major experiences and skills that aligns with the job applied for.
To make your answer short, clear and impactful, you can apply a simple & easy approach. Always start with your current situation then move to your past experience and then at last you can simply mention what you are looking next and why the current opportunity excites you.
Current State
Start with briefly explaining what you are doing currently. Try creating an interesting story showing the interviewer where do you stand currently in your career, what skills set you possess, and what are your key achievements. How have you been an asset to your current organization?
Example: “I’m currently working as Sales Head at ABC company, heading a team of 20 sales managers and responsible for revenue generation and new business development. In the last 1 year, successfully achieved a revenue of INR 20 Crores and expanded in APAC countries.
Past Experiences
After talking about your current experience, next you should talk about past experiences and focus more on achievements rather than just basic responsibilities. Talk about those achievements which are in alignment with the job you are applying for.
Example: “Before joining ABC Company, I worked with BNM Corporation as a Sales Manager. I led a team of 5 members and managed a sale of INR 2 Crores. I successfully achieved the sales targets every quarter and was awarded as the Sales Manager of the Year. I have strong leadership skills, which will be crucial in delivering success in my current role.
Future Goals
In the end, explain what are you aspiring for next in your career and why are you interested in the specific role. Show passion, and interest and try telling the interviewer how your current role, skills can be utilized in the desired role, also how you can be a valuable asset the organization.
Example: I’m really excited about this opportunity to join your company. I really like the fact how your team focuses on ground-breaking sales strategies, brainstorming, and teamwork which perfectly matches my passion. I’m excited to use my skills & expertise in sales and team leadership to help your company grow and to keep advancing my career in such an exciting & positive environment.
Customizing the Answer
Always, customize your response according to the job you applied for. Focus on the experience and skills which are most relevant to the position. Research well in advance about the company and the role to understand what they are looking for and how you are the right fit for the job.
For instance, if you’re applying for a project management position, emphasize your experience managing various projects while leading teams. If the role requires client coordination, show our expertise in client relationship management and your experience in managing difficult clients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Be specific while answering the questions, do not provide a generic response. If talking about your role, then don’t just mention being responsible for managing sales rather mention managing sales worth INR 2 Crores.
- Don’t provide unnecessary personal details. Remember the prospective employer is not interested in your personal history rather they want to know what you bring to the table.
- Keep it short & crisp. Try to limit your answer to 2 minutes.
- Show enthusiasm, your excitement regarding the role and the company.
Examples of Answers
Example 1: Customer Service Role
Current: “I’m currently serving as a customer service executive at EFG Company, where I manage a high volume of customer inquiries and resolve customer issues.”
Past: Previously, aIso I worked in a similar role at ABC Corp, where I was acknowledged for successfully managing escalated cases and enhancing customer satisfaction scores by 25%.
Future: “I’m looking forward to utilize my customer service skills to deliver excellent customer services and enhance CSAT. I am extremely excited about the role to contribute significantly to your organization.
Example 2: Software Developer Role
Present: “I’m a mobile developer at ABC Solutions where I am accountable for developing mobile applications using clean coding. I am also responsible for building the design interface as per the client’s requirements.” I have been involved in various projects where I played an instrumental role.
Past: “In my previous role at ZXY Corp., I successfully conducted periodic testing and improved the usability of the mobile app by 30%.”
Future: “I’m excited to join your company because your focus is on cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects. I’m excited to apply my mobile development skills and contribute to your upcoming projects.