What appears a harmless ice-breaker is a critical component of your interview. Your answer to “Tell me about yourself” is often the first spoken opportunity (think body language) to create a positive impression...and you know what they say about first impressions.

The interviewer often looks relaxed at this point, sitting back, sipping coffee, listening. This can create a false sense of security, almost encouraging you to stray from the point. Beware – a long winded story about your love for art-house films or a shaggy-dog story about how well you service customers may seem interesting to you, but may not hit the spot for your suitor.

An interview is a 2-way process, an interaction. If you talk for too long you are giving a speech, not interacting.

Why do interviewers ask this question?

To identify:

*Presentation skills      *Influencing skills        *Evidence of over achievement
*Ability to communicate concisely  *Fit for the job

How to structure a great answer

Timing is key, be concise and relevant. Aim for a few sentences and no longer than 2 minutes.  
There are 5 key stages to remember when answering:

1. Find out in advance the key skills required for the job. Structure the first part of your response to match the skills and back up with evidence.
2. Provide a brief snapshot of your career or background, focussing on the most recent. Pick 2 examples of relevant achievements
3. What are you looking for? State your aspirations and why the company AND industry is very attractive to you
4. Add a personal anecdote. Sporty, social, artistic, well travelled? Drop in a soft, friendly ending to a surprisingly serious question.
5. Finish on a question. An interview is 2-way. Show you are serious about finding out if this is the right opportunity for you, in a polite and enthusiastic way.

When asked “Tell me about yourself”, remember the 5 key stages of a good answer: skills, background, aspirations, personal, question.