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How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (Plus Examples!)

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By Stav Ziv

“Tell me about yourself” might seem like an easy win of an  interview question —after all, you know all about yourself! And good thing, too, because it’s often the very first thing an interviewer will ask you to do—whether you’re having a preliminary phone screen, speaking to your prospective boss, or sitting down with the CEO during the final round.”

Read the full article on The Muse: https://www.themuse.com/advice/tell-me-about-yourself-interview-question-answer-examples

Interview Questions

Comprehensive Interview Guide: 60+ Professions Explored in Detail

How to Describe Yourself: 40+ Examples for Interviews

By Biron Clark

Published: December 15, 2023

A lot of employers will ask you to describe yourself as one of the first questions in the job interview. As a former recruiter , I’m going to walk you through the best ways to answer, examples of how to describe yourself, and the common mistakes to avoid. Then we’ll also look at how to describe yourself in a more casual setting like a networking event or meetup.

Let’s get started…

How to Answer the Interview Question: “Describe Yourself”

1. know & research your audience.

The first step in how to describe yourself is to know your audience! You don’t want to describe yourself as a quiet person who prefers working alone if you’re interviewing at a highly-social company that emphasizes teamwork . At least not if you want to get hired!

Now, you don’t need to lie and say you’re the most outgoing, energetic person in the world, but you’d want to show a bit of both sides, so they at least know you can handle some basic teamwork. So prepare for your job interview by researching the company and figuring out what type of work environment they seem to have.  If you don’t know how to research a company, this article will help you. I’d recommend checking out their website, Facebook page, YouTube, and maybe other social media such as LinkedIn. This will give you a sense of their overall company culture , which will help you do a better job of describing yourself in a way that’ll be attractive to THEM.

2. Describe traits that fit their job and team

When you describe yourself in the interview, you want to be honest and true to yourself. There’s no need to lie. However, you do want to think about which traits they’ll find most exciting or impressive. The key is to think about what they’ll view as most relevant. If the job requires a lot of multi-tasking (you’ll know from the job description most likely), you’ll want to describe yourself as someone who works well with a high number of tasks going on. If the job seems to be very fast-paced, you could talk about someone who is highly organized, works well under pressure, and has succeeded in fast-paced environments in the past. (FYI, here’s an entire article on answering, “ what type of work environment do you prefer” ). This is how to describe yourself while being honest but also making sure your interview answer will get them excited to hire you. I personally do NOT work well under pressure. But I’ve still said it in interviews because I knew they wanted to hear it. And the job didn’t end up being very high-pressure anyway. If you’re concerned that the job isn’t the right fit, don’t take the job. But your only goal in the interview is to sell yourself and get invited to the next round in the process, and this is how you do that.

3. Always pick positive traits

You never want to describe yourself as shy, unconfident, stressed, anxious, etc. When the interviewer asks you to describe yourself, you should always be naming positive traits and things that make you attractive to the employer.

This should be obvious, but I want to make sure you know to never mention negatives when answering this interview question.

4. Back up your claims with an example

The fourth and final step when answering, “how would you describe yourself?” is to give an example of how that trait has helped you in a real situation. We’ll look at many examples of how to describe yourself in the next section, but here’s the basic idea for now…

Imagine you say that you would describe yourself as someone who solves problems and loves thinking outside the box and taking initiative. You might conclude your answer by saying:

For example, in my last job, there was a software failure and more than 40% of our clients were reporting outages. I took the initiative to look at the software error logs and spotted the issue before my Manager had a chance to look. As soon as my Manager became available, I told him I had already found a solution. This saved our clients money and saved my Manager time.

It’s one thing to say, “I take initiative” or something like that, but it’s MUCH more powerful to give a real example of how you took initiative to help your past employer save money or make money.  Now let’s look at some more sample responses:

Watch: How to Describe Yourself

How to describe yourself: answer examples.

Now that you know the four key steps to use when describing yourself in a job interview, let’s look at some sample short descriptions about yourself . Remember, research is the first step. Here’s why this is so crucial:

Imagine they ask, “How would you describe yourself?”… and because you did your research… you know that this particular job requires a lot of teamwork and collaboration. You know from the job posting that this is not a role  where you sit quietly and work by yourself all day. So in your answer, you’d want to give a short description about yourself that shows you’re collaborative and that you enjoy working as part of a team. Then, you’d give an example of a real-life situation where you demonstrated this.

Hopefully that last piece sounds familiar – it was step #4 above. That’s how you stand out when answering “describe yourself” in your interview.

Here are two examples of how a full answer should sound:

How to Describe Yourself – Example Answer #1:

I would describe myself as someone who is highly motivated, and I particularly enjoy working as a part of a team. In my last job, I was part of a group of 12 people and we communicated multiple times per day to work as a unit, and I also interacted frequently with other groups like Sales , Customer Service, and more. I enjoy a fast-paced, team-oriented environment like this.

How to Describe Yourself – Example Answer #2:

I’d describe myself as being very resourceful and ambitious at the same time. I find solutions, get creative, and solve problems without needing the help of coworkers or managers. I know when to ask for help and I don’t stay quiet if I do need assistance. But when it is possible to handle something without occupying the time of others, I do it and I consider myself very good at it. It’s one of the things my last boss would say they liked most about me if you asked them to describe my style of work.

How to Describe Yourself With One Word

There’s another similar interview question you should be ready for: “If you only had one word to describe yourself, what would it be?”

Here is a list of one-word answers you can use to describe yourself:

• Resourceful
• Cooperative
• Detail-oriented

Choose whichever suits you best (and fits with the role you’re interviewing for), and just remember that you can repeat this same word in every interview. Then, whichever word you pick to describe yourself, prepare an example and a reason for why you chose it. Don’t just say one word and then stop talking. This is a question where they’ll want you to explain your answer.

Here’s a word-for-word example of how to describe yourself if they ask for one specific trait or word:

How to Describe Yourself – Example Answer #3:

The word I’d use to describe myself is ‘ambitious’. One of the reasons I’m looking for tech jobs right now is that I want to work on large, important projects and challenge myself. I like to seek out learning opportunities and I’m not afraid to fail and struggle as a part of learning. I feel the tech industry is the best place to do this right now, and I did some reading on your founder and thought the work culture here sounded like a great fit for my style.

It’s always great if you can end your answer by explaining why you applied for the position and showing them you did your research. Sure, it’s more than they asked, but it’ll impress them.  So keep this in mind in your next interview. The interviewer or hiring manager may also ask, “What are three words you’d use to describe yourself?” So you can adapt the sample answers above but include three positive words to describe yourself, and you’ll have an answer that sounds like this:

How to Describe Yourself in Three Words – Sample Answer

Three words I’d use to describe myself are hard-working, creative, and I’m also a people person. In my previous job, team members often said that my presence boosted team morale, and they also appreciated my ability to come up with new ideas to solve complex problems, so that’s why I chose those three descriptive words above.

Note that you’re technically using more than three words to describe yourself above. That’s fine. You can use short phrases like “people person” as one word. You’ll still give a positive impression. It’s okay to use positive adjectives that are two to three words as long as it’s one trait.

How to Describe Yourself With One Word for Different Industries

Healthcare: 

• Compassionate
• Patient-focused
• Knowledgeable
• Collaborative
• Responsible
• Solution-driven
• Data-oriented
• Trustworthy
• Results-driven
• Fiscally-responsible
• Compliance-focused
• Approachable
• Sales-driven
• Merchandising-savvy
• Customer-focused
• Inventory-aware
• Trend-conscious
• Team-player

Customer Service:

• Solution-oriented
• Clear-communicator
• Conflict-resolver

Mistakes to Avoid When Answering, “How Would You Describe Yourself?”

The first mistake to avoid is: Don’t ramble on or be too long-winded in your answer and don’t share your entire life story. Try to keep your answer to around 60-90 seconds. If they ask for one single word to describe yourself, you may want to keep it even shorter than that. And stay focused on telling a clear, concise story when you describe yourself. Don’t get sidetracked or go off in many different directions with your story.

I’d recommend keeping this simple structure that we talked about above:

• How you’d describe yourself and why
• An example of you using this to help a past employer or succeed in a past project

Otherwise, you might fall into a common trap that exists for this question, and also questions like “ tell me about yourself “. The trap is: They’re trying to see if you can tell a clear story without getting sidetracked and distracted. If you ramble on for too long, they’ll take it as a sign you can’t keep a clear train of thought and are difficult to communicate with. And that can cost you the job even if they like the actual word(s) you chose to describe yourself.

If you’re not sure whether your answer is getting too long, you can stop and ask for feedback! Just give your best shot at an answer, and then say, “does that answer your question, or did you want more info?” That way, you’re not stopping before they’re satisfied, but you’re not talking for an extra two minutes after you’ve answered their question, either. (Talking for too long after each answer will frustrate the interviewer FAST and is a common mistake that can cause people to fail interviews ).

Overall, if you follow the tips above you should pass this question easily and move on to the rest of the interview.

FYI, you should also read this article on how to answer, “tell me about yourself” because it’s another common question that employers ask.

How to Describe Yourself in Networking Opportunities and Events

We’ve covered how to answer “describe yourself” in job interviews, but what about networking events? Describing yourself in a non-interview environment is a bit different. To start, you should read this article on how to develop a great elevator pitch. Part of it is about job interviews, but it also includes scripts for networking and more. When you’re describing yourself in a meetup or networking event, the steps we looked at to begin this article are still good steps to follow. You should try to research the people you’re meeting, or at least think about your audience before answering. (Even if you just met them – think about what type of background they have, what might interest them, etc.) Then when you describe yourself, talk about the pieces of your background that they’ll be able to relate to, or that they’ll find relevant. This is how to capture someone’s attention when first speaking with them. Then you might find some common ground or common interests, and you’ll both enjoy the conversation a lot more.

If you follow the four basic steps at the beginning of this article, you’ll be able to describe yourself confidently to anyone you meet in a professional setting, whether it’s a job interview or not.

Other recommended resources:

• How to write the best elevator pitch for networking and interviews
• How to follow up by email after your interview
• The 16 top reasons you can’t find a job

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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How To Answer Tell Me About Yourself (13 Sample Answers Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Updated 6/12/2022.

Few interview questions are as deceptively simple as “Tell me about yourself.” After all, you know all about you, right? So, you shouldn’t have any trouble.

While it seems like an open invitation to talk about nearly any aspect of your life, that isn’t what’s happening here. That’s what makes figuring out how to answer “tell me about yourself” so tricky. If you don’t share the right kind of information, your response will miss the mark.

But how do you get it right? By checking out a few tips and tell me about yourself sample answers that you can use as a starting point. Let’s get started.

Why Do Hiring Managers Ask This Question?

So, why do hiring managers ask this question? Do they really want to get to know you better, or do they have another motive?

Well, it’s actually a bit of both. First, they want to see how you react to a question asked casually and without structure. Can you offer up a well-structured, informative response that gives them an idea of who you are as a professional? Or do you ramble about personal details that aren’t relevant to the role?

Second, they want to get a feel for what you deem to be “important.” The aspects of your career that you highlight give them a surprising number of clues about your preferences, priorities, and values, making it easier for them to assess your mentality and determine if you fit in with the company culture.

Overall, hiring managers and recruiters may start making hiring decisions in as little as 90 seconds after meeting you. Since that’s the case, you need to take it seriously when a hiring manager asks you, “Tell me a little about yourself,” as that’s normally one of the first questions you’ll face. Additionally, you want to use a great strategy to create your answers. More about that in a moment.

How to Answer Tell Me About Yourself

Alright, now that you know why this question is asked, it’s time to dive into how to answer “tell me about yourself.” Here’s a quick step-by-step process you can use to craft an outstanding response.

Use the Tailoring Method

First things first, you want to use the Tailoring Method to build your answer. That ensures your response is as relevant to the hiring manager as possible, allowing you to speak to their needs and preferences while you share details about your professional history.

Generally, you can find out a lot about what the hiring manager wants to know with a bit of research. Review the job description to find out more about the skills and traits their after, as well as the duties you might encounter. Then, review information about the company, including its mission, values, and products or services. That way, you can talk about points that will pique the hiring manager’s interest right at the beginning of the meeting.

Use a Chronological Approach

Overall, this is an interview question where your answer should feel like a story. Using a chronological, narrative-style approach lets you show the hiring manager how you’ve grown in your career, highlighting the occasional relevant achievement along the way. It keeps your answer compelling, all while making the details easier to follow.

Avoid These Mistakes

Along with crafting a great answer, you need to make sure you avoid certain missteps. Here are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid along the way.

1) Regurgitating Your Cover Letter and Resume

The “Tell us about yourself” question isn’t an invitation for you to simply list off the same accomplishments you put on your resume. Yes, it’s important for you to highlight moments in your past when you were successful, but the real power lies in bringing more to the table, providing the hiring manager with relevant details that didn’t fit on your application.

2) Telling Your Life Story

This is probably the most common mistake that people make. Why? Because it’s the easiest way to answer this question.

Don’t start talking about where you were born or what you did as a child. Unless an experience relates to your career, it doesn’t typically belong here.

3) “Well, What Do You Want to Know?”

An answer like this tells an interviewer that you’re unprepared. Plus, it comes off as a bit combative. In either case, it’s a bad first impression and could cost you the job.

4) The 10-Minute Monologue

Don’t go off on a ten-minute monologue all about you when you’re asked, “Tell me a little about yourself.” Instead, keep it short.

For most interview questions , responses between 30 seconds to four minutes are ideal. With this one, something in the 60 to 90-second range is likely best. There are going to be a lot more questions coming down the pipe that will allow you to elaborate on your various experiences, skills, and accomplishments. Don’t feel like you have to answer all of them at once.

Just remember, this is just one question the hiring manager could ask you in your interview! That’s why we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview.

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

FREE BONUS PDF CHEAT SHEET: Get our " Job Interview Questions & Answers PDF Cheat Sheet " that gives you " word-word sample answers to the most common job interview questions you'll face at your next interview .

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Top 13 Tell Me About Yourself Answers

Okay, it’s almost time to dig into the tell me about yourself examples. But before we hop in, there’s something else we need to mention.

When you’re looking at a tell me about yourself sample answer in the list, understand it’s only supposed to be inspiration. Along with showing you what an outstanding answer looks like, it can help you come up with ideas for your own responses.

However, the tell me about yourself answers below are only starting points. You shouldn’t use them as written. Instead, you need to take advantage of the Tailoring Method , too.

With the Tailoring Method, you customize your answer to meet the hiring manager’s needs. That way, your response is as relevant as possible, increasing the odds that you’ll impress.

Since the answers below aren’t tailored to the job you’re after, they shouldn’t be used without some tweaks, at a minimum. Otherwise, just treat them as inspiration, ensuring you’ll know when your own answer is where it needs to be.

So, now that we’ve covered that, here are some tell me about yourself examples, representing a range of experience levels, industries, and roles.

Example 1 – Entry-Level Retail

I’m an enthusiastic, dependable, upbeat high school graduate hoping to take my customer service skills to the next level. I believe that retail is the perfect option for doing that, allowing me to engage with a range of customers and face challenges that will only help me improve.

While I lack prior retail experience, I have volunteered for projects that are highly similar. For instance, I oversaw a quarterly bake sale at my school, allowing me to get cash handling and customer service experience.

This role specifically taught me interest because I’m looking for a fast-paced environment where I can learn and grow. I am not just diligent but highly ambitious and willing to learn, which will let me provide real value to my first retail employer.

Example 2 – Entry-Level Tech

I’m a tech-savvy high school graduate looking to take my first steps into a technology career. Along with being highly familiar with productivity suites – such as Microsoft Office – thanks to my schooling, I’m also incredibly comfortable with Android smartphones and tablets. Additionally, often assist family members with their devices, providing support to individuals of all ages and with varying degrees of technical knowledge.

Since I’m highly passionate about the field, I believe this customer support role is a great fit. It’ll allow me to put my current skills to work, as well as develop new ones that will lead to a strong career.

Example 3 – Entry-Level Trades

I’ve had a passion for cars for as long as I can remember. While I initially explored my interest as many children do – collecting Hot Wheels cars – my continuing interest encouraged me to dig deeper. I began by assisting my father and grandfather with routine maintenance, getting a general overview of common processes. Then, I signed up for autobody in high school, giving me my first real taste for the work involved.

After high school, I transitioned to a trade school, broadening my skills to include a variety of repairs and maintenance activities. Today, I’m looking for an opportunity to put those capabilities to work, as well as continue to grow in my new field.

Example 4 – Recent Social Work College Grad

When I started high school, I already knew that I wanted a career where I could make a real difference in people’s lives. I began volunteering, spending time supporting a range of organizations. However, the experience that fundamentally changed my life was volunteering for an agency that provided support to the elderly.

Many older adults in our communities require far more support than they usually receive. Whether it’s rides to medical appointments, helping getting groceries, or having someone come and cut their grass, it made a dramatic difference in their lives.

After that experience, I decided that social work was my calling, particularly in the area of services for the elderly. I graduated at the top of my class and, during my studies, had an opportunity to intern at a local community support agency. I feel that my education and experience have prepared me well for the career that lies ahead and I look forward to doing my part to support those in my community who need it most.

Example 5 – Recent Engineering College Grad

Nothing quite captures my imagination and sparks my passion like bridges. I’ve long been a fan of these massive feats of engineering, so much so that I often went out of my way to explore as many as possible once I was able to drive.

During high school, I also joined a Rube Goldberg club. It allowed me to explore structures in creative ways, further increasing my interest in the field of engineering.

After my high school graduation, I headed to XYZ University to pursue a degree in structural engineering, ultimately graduating in the top five percent of my class. While studying, I had the opportunity to complete an internship with ABC Co., a leading engineering firm in the area.

Overall, my drive to create amazing structures has only strengthened as I acquired the skills and knowledge required to work in the field. Ultimately, I feel that my passion and capabilities combined make me an asset, and I look forward to securing a position that will help me get my career off of the ground.

Example 6 – Recent Physical Therapy College Grad

During high school, I was unfortunate enough to experience a serious knee injury while participating in after-school sports. While the injury was a challenge, one good thing did come of it; my passion for helping others heal.

As part of my recovery, I spent time with a kind, compassionate, and capable physical therapist. Their poise, knowledge, and ability to motivate me made my recovery far simpler than it would have otherwise been, and that experience made me realize that I want to do the same for others.

I ultimately headed to XYZ College to earn my Bachelor’s before heading to ABC University to complete my physical therapy education. Now that I’m licensed, I’m ready to take the next step and find a position where I can assist others as they walk down the road toward recovery.

Example 7 – Mid-Level Human Resources Pro

As the saying goes, people are a company’s greatest asset. Since that’s the case, I wanted to build a career that allowed me to help organizations manage their workforces more effectively.

I began by completing a Bachelor’s degree, giving me a strong initial foundation. After that, I landed a role as a recruiter, allowing me to dig deeper into hiring processes and providing me with crucial skills that help me spot genuine talent.

After a time, I added benefits administration to my plate. Additionally, I acquired my PHR certification as well as returned to school to secure my Master’s degree. Once that’s complete, I plan on securing my SPHR certification, as well.

Ultimately, my current goal is to find a company where I can provide value today and into the future, particularly as I expand my skills.

Example 8 – Mid-Level Accounting Pro

I grew up as one of those children where numbers simply made sense. As a result, I was fascinated by every mathematics subject as I progressed through my education and quickly decided that a math-oriented field would ultimately be the best fit.

During my studies, I interned with an area company, providing assistance to its accountants. This helped me acquire foundational skills, particularly when it came to reporting. After earning an accounting degree, I began working for a local firm, expanding my involvement to records management for my own set of clients.

Over time, my responsibilities expanded. Along with supporting 40 clients, I began attending strategy meetings, assisting with the development of new processes designed to increase accuracy and boost efficiency.

Today, I’m looking to continue on that growth path, acquiring new skills and expanding my responsibilities. My goal is to work in a management position, so I’m seeking out opportunities that allow me to contribute while also giving me the opportunity to take on projects that’ll send me in that direction.

Example 9 – Entry-Level Marketing Manager

Initially, I entered the world of marketing because of the amount of creativity involved in the field. I had a knack for innovation, coming up with unique ways to position companies to secure more market share. On average, I achieved growth rates of 18 percent, as well as improved customer retention by 200 percent.

However, as my career progressed, I learned that other skills were equally important. Research, organization, and collaboration are all essential, and I found I pulled on those more and more as time passed.

With each successful campaign, my leadership skills were increasingly helpful. I’ve had the opportunity to oversee small teams, ensuring that everyone collaborated effectively to achieve great results. Now, I feel I’m ready for the next step. That’s why I’m currently pursuing a management position.

Example 10 – Entry Level Sales Manager

I’m the kind of person who wants to help others make their lives easier to manage. As a result, I enthusiastically share details when I think a product or service is poised to do just that. Since that’s the case, sales was a natural fit.

However, during my six years in the field, I also discovered that I’m highly adept at motivating others. That’s why I was selected to manage several projects. Along with keeping myself on target, I was able to effectively coordinate the efforts of team members, all while keeping engagement high.

Those experiences allowed me to hone my management skills, giving me a strong foundation that I know will serve me well. I believe this position aligns with my core objectives, giving me an opportunity to provide exceptional value not just to the company but also to the employees I will oversee along the way.

Example 11 – Seasoned Customer Service Manager

I began my customer service career 12 years ago, initially handling calls in a contact center for a leading service provider. That frontline, hands-on time taught me far more than I expected, increasing my interest in key areas like experience management. Additionally, listening to my colleagues’ concerns gave me insights into operational efficiency and engagement, both of which have proven valuable.

Over time, I worked to expand my knowledge and capabilities. I volunteered for special projects, ensuring I could play a role in positive organizational change. In just one year, I was able to oversee my first project, and, a mere six months later, I was promoted to a supervisory role.

As I’ve moved forward, ultimately leading a department, I kept those initial experiences in mind. They allow me to see the situation through the eyes of customers and frontline employees, ensuring that any changes made benefit them both. Ultimately, that’s experience that I want to take to a new company, allowing me to improve new workplaces for everyone.

Example 12 – Seasoned Warehouse Manager

During my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work my way up. I initially began as an order packer with a major online retailer. As time progressed, I gathered new skills, including in critical areas like inventory management and operational safety.

In short order, I began transitioning into supervisory roles. At first, I supervised a small team, though I was soon overseeing an entire department. After two years at that level, I began managing full warehouse floors, directing the work of more than 100 employees. Additionally, I played a key role in advancing our operations, including spearheading an IoT initiative to improve efficiency.

Today, I’m looking to move my career forward by taking on a new challenge. The expanded duties that come with this role genuinely caught my eye, and I’m hoping to secure this position – or one like it – as quickly as possible.

Example 13 – Executive

For the past four years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve as the technology department manager with an industry-leading company. During my time there, I’ve overseen five unique teams, each comprised of 10 to 20 highly skilled employees.

Along with ensuring productivity, I developed approaches to ensure priorities were properly addressed and that everything was accomplished within budget. Additionally, I coordinated with the C-suite to gather input and facilitate its strategic vision, as well as coach employees toward greater levels of success.

Along the way, I completed my Master’s degree in IT, as well as several certifications in key areas. When combined with my leadership experience, I felt it was time to take the next step and seek out a CTO opportunity.

Putting It All Together

At this point, you should have a solid ide of how to answer “tell me about yourself.” All of the tips and tell me about yourself sample answers above show you what it takes to craft a great response. Use them to your advantage, but don’t forget to use the Tailoring Method, too. That way, your answers will be impactful and relevant, increasing the odds that you’ll impress.

FREE : Tell Me About Yourself PDF "Cheat Sheet"

Ok the next thing you should do is Download our PDF Answer "Cheat Sheet" that gives you "word for word" example answers to this dreaded question.

In it you'll find answers to fit a variety of scenarios including: if you just graduated , have no experience and more!

CLICK HERE TO GET THE "CHEAT SHEET"

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Telling your story in a job interview

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“When the interviewer leans in and says those four words, “Tell me about yourself,” it’s your chance to shine.

And in the world of a job candidate, few questions hold as much weight as “Tell me about yourself.” It’s somehow simple  and  complicated.

But where do you start?

Well, you can start by forgetting the mundane routine of reciting your life story. Time is precious. And in today’s market, hiring managers and recruiters are busy. It’s time to learn how to captivate them with a concise, informative, and impactful answer—one that showcases your professional journey and leaves a lasting impression.”

Read more on Teal .

How to Answer the ‘Tell Me About Yourself’ Job Interview Question (With Examples)

Forget what you’ve been told about the “tell me about yourself” job interview question. It’s not just a procedural, lightway teaser prompting you to walk through your resume; it’s a chance for you to set the stage for the rest of the interview and establish why you’re the right person for the job.

“What seems like a throwaway question to both hiring managers and to job interviewees is actually the exact opposite,” said Jeremy Schifeling, principal product marketing manager at edtech nonprofit Khan Academy . “It’s probably the most important question in the entire conversation.”

Indeed, how you respond to the “tell me about yourself” prompt plays a key role in the direction the interview takes — it shapes the interviewer’s perception of your personality, accomplishments and enthusiasm about the job. 

To give yourself an edge in the interview process, thoughtfully craft a response that’s succinct and yet still provides specific evidence of your qualifications.

Read More 26 Job Interview Tips to Make a Lasting Impression

Why Do Interviewers Ask the ‘Tell Me About Yourself’ Question?

“Tell me about yourself” is an information-gathering prompt — not idle chit-chat or a bid to learn about your hobbies, pets or parenting techniques.

Hiring managers usually bring it up hoping to hear what you’re passionate about and the impact you’ve made in previous positions . While you talk, they’ll be assessing whether your interests and accomplishments are relevant and transferable to the position you’re seeking at their company.

It commonly comes up early in an interview, when hiring managers typically form their first impression of a candidate. Schifeling, who is also a former career adviser, said the next 25 minutes of the interview are largely spent “collecting evidence to confirm what I’ve already decided.”

How to Answer ‘Tell Me About Yourself’

3 steps to approach the 'tell me about yourself' question.

• Briefly explain why you are passionate about your specialization or field of study.
• Provide specific examples that illustrate your passion.
• Connect past accomplishments to the potential role.

When answering this question, begin with a thesis statement that expresses your career holistically and, in particular, why you are passionate about your field or specialization.

Next, provide concrete examples of prior roles you’ve held that illustrate that passion and highlight all the important impacts that you made while holding those roles. 

And finally, conclude with a remark that connects your passion and accomplishments to the role to which you are applying.

How to Structure a Response to ‘Tell Me About Yourself’

The goal when responding to “tell me about yourself” is not to ramble, but also not to sound too rehearsed. Instead, experts recommend devising a brief, purposeful response that offers the interviewer specific examples that relate your passions to the job.

Open With a Thesis Statement

Structure the response as a five-paragraph essay — a formula rooted in storytelling, not a regurgitated checklist of resume items.

“I don’t want to give the employer all the messiness of my career,” Schifeling said. “I want to give them a simple story they can grab onto, just like a journalist uses a hook to grab people’s attention.”

The opening sentence operates much like a thesis statement. Here’s what Schifeling might say, were he asked the “tell me about yourself” question in an interview for his current position:

“All my life, I’ve tried to bring two things together: The power of education and technology to help students in need. From the time I was a kindergarten teacher back in Brooklyn, to doing it every day at Khan Academy as a marketer.”

Connect Your Passion and Experience to the Job

The passion, evidence and tie back (PET) method is another way to structure a streamlined response to the “tell me about yourself” question.

It’s an interview response technique that begins with a statement of passion, followed by evidence of that passion and a concluding remark that bridges a candidate’s experience with the company’s mission and the duties of the job description. 

PET is similar to the five-paragraph essay, but with the evidence section condensed to emphasize experiences that are highly relevant to the position and that show the candidate’s enthusiasm and energy.

This answer model is effective with hiring managers, Schifeling said, because it leads to a highly focused narrative — not a meandering autobiography but a curated professional story that speaks to the audience.

'Tell Me About Yourself' Answer Template

• Open with a brief statement of passion.
• Offer evidence of relevant experience.
• Include concrete details to support your examples.
• Connect examples to the responsibilities of the prospective job.
• Conclude by linking your passion to the company mission and values.

Showcase Your Working Style and Values

Jo-Nell Sieren, a career adviser for design, interactive arts and media students at Columbia College in Chicago, coaches candidates to emphasize how their school and professional experiences showcase their individual working styles and values. 

A software engineering or graphic design student who wishes to differentiate themselves might discuss their contributions to a hackathon, game jam or conference panel. A mid-career UX designer seeking to convey their social values might point to a human-centered design project that emphasizes their empathy for end users.

Whatever the case, keep the executive summary of your professional background brief, typically one minute or so.

‘Tell Me About Yourself’ Example Answers

Answering the popular “tell me about yourself” interview question is different for every person, depending on their level of experience, education and desired career. Here are some examples to steer you in the right direction.

General Example Answer

“When I was studying business in college, I didn’t necessarily see myself working in human resources, but I’m grateful my career led me in that direction. Being part of a people management team has given me valuable insight into how to put together an effective support system for employees. I actually spearheaded the effort at my current employer to expand the company’s benefits package. It had been several years since those offerings had been touched, and so I led a project to modernize things, to ensure our employees had access to things like mental health resources and financial support for professional development. I bring a lot of experience and knowledge to the table that I think have thoroughly prepared me for an HR manager job.”

Example Answer for Recent Graduates

“I’m a writer at my core, and my love for storytelling carried from childhood all the way to university. I started studying marketing because I wanted to be able to help craft meaningful brand narratives. In my coursework, I’ve handled dozens of projects focused on content creation, like writing SEO articles and developing video concepts, but I also have real-world experience from my internship. Even though I was the most-junior person on my team, I made some really significant contributions and got to get hands-on with the creative process. Getting that taste of the professional world has me excited to kickstart my career, and I’m hoping your agency will be a good fit for me to continue learning and growing.”

Example Answer for Switching Industries

“I started working in finance straight out of college. I was able to hit the ground running because the hard work I put into my internship as a student luckily paid off and the company that I was with offered me a full-time position. The four years that I’ve spent in this job have helped me hone my analytics and financial forecasting skills. I’ve always been pretty good with numbers, but what’s really given me an edge is taking the time to develop the patience and resourcefulness to communicate what can be incredibly complex information to people who come from all kinds of educational and professional backgrounds. This work has laid the foundation for my career, but I’m ready to branch out and try something new. So I’m looking forward to stepping out of the financial sector and putting those valuable skills to the test in a different kind of industry as a business analyst.”

Example Answer for Experienced Candidates

“I’ve worked in software development for the past decade and have extensive experience in building and deploying mobile apps. In my current position, I led a recent project to launch what has become one of my company’s most successful games on both Android and iOS. Of course it’s been incredibly rewarding to get to participate in software projects that let me stretch my creative muscles, but it’s also felt really great to be growing into my leadership potential. I’ve enjoyed getting to mentor and coach younger developers as I took the reins on guiding some projects to completion. That’s why I’m looking to move into a role with more leadership and management responsibilities.”

More on Interview Questions How to Answer Tough Interview Questions Like a Pro

4 Tips for Answering ‘Tell Me About Yourself’

1. don’t just walk through your resume.

The classic misguided advice is to walk hiring managers through your resume. You can imagine the totally tedious answers. 

“Here’s where I went to school. Here’s what I majored in. Here’s my first job. Here’s my second job,” is a boring way to begin the conversation and comes off cold and like a robot going through the motions, Schifeling said.

2. Ask a Check-In Question to Build Rapport

The “tell me about yourself” question is a great opportunity to ask clarifying questions , Marielle Smith, vice president of people at Narvar , said.

“Did I answer your question? Is there an area you’d like to hear more about? I want to make sure I’m answering your question,” Smith said, suggesting several possible approaches.

Touching base with an interviewer is a good way to tease out which, if any, aspects of your professional story they’re interested in exploring further. It also helps establish rapport, suggesting you are empathetic to their concerns and can communicate efficiently in an office environment.

“It’s always a good signal to ask clarifying questions,” Smith said. “When candidates do that, it shows they’re very detail-oriented and want to save time.”

3. Tell an Anecdote that Hooks the Interviewer

Incorporate a good professional story when answering the “tell me about yourself” question. Consider something with a compelling hook, concrete evidence and a touch of warmth that leaves an indelible impression. 

Hiring managers are more likely to be receptive to a refreshing anecdote that entertains them. Really, the answer is less important than what its delivery conveys about the candidate.

Schifeling and other hiring leaders also advise you to respond succinctly while emphasizing your enthusiasm and value to a potential employer.

4. Own Your Story, Even If You’re a Misfit

Perhaps the key takeaway, Schifeling said, is to own your story. That means being unafraid to put yourself out there, even at the risk of appearing as an outlier for a role.

“Because I think one of the things that, really, was almost magnetic when I’ve had my own career coaching shingle hung out there is that I tend to get a lot of misfits,” Schifeling said. “They’re not the folks who’ve gone the traditional route of getting their MBA or masters in computer science. They’re folks who are square pegs trying to fit into the round holes of standard careers.”

He tells the story of an entrepreneur he coached who worked in the online education space, helping photographers grow their businesses. She had an impressive track record as a business owner but initially refrained from sharing it in interviews, for fear her unconventional background would scare off potential employers.

“She was trying to take all this incredible stuff she had done and boil it down to seem safe,” he said. “She was actually ruining all her advantages: Running her own business, managing a [profit and loss] statement. Like, she had been responsible for the success of other people around her but she felt she had to put all that to the side.”

When she reframed her strategy to lead with her experience as a business owner, her luck changed.

“In fact, what she was able to do is not only get a job offer at a super competitive firm in the Denver area, but then go back to her existing employer with that offer, and turn it into a $60,000 promotion,” Schifeling said.

In the end, she chose to tell the interviewer about herself — to own her story — rather than model her response after an imagined “right answer” or a perfect candidate she thought they had in mind. And that’s what made the difference.  

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How to describe yourself in an interview: 9 methods with examples.

• By Matthew Jones

Are you wondering how to describe yourself in an interview ? At most job interviews, you will be asked (in one way or another) to tell the interviewer about yourself. If you find yourself getting nervous when this question pops up, don’t worry. While it’s not an easy question to answer, we have some tips and examples here, so you can start practicing how to respond to this question.

Describing yourself in an interview setting requires showing honesty and humility, while also making yourself look confident in your abilities! Interviewers almost always ask this question because they want to know what you’re like and how you view yourself.

The first step in mastering how to describe yourself in an interview is learning to recognize this question type.

Common Variations of the “Describe Yourself” Question

Here are just a few common variations of this common interview question :

• What are the 3 words that best describe you?
• How do other people describe you?
• In your opinion, what are your most important traits?
• What words come to mind when you think about yourself?
• What adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
• How would you describe your personality?
• Tell me about yourself.
• Describe yourself in one sentence.
• Summarize yourself in as few words as possible.

While some of these questions and commands require specifically formatted answers, the majority can be answered in the same way. So, how can you answer these questions? More importantly, what are some positive ways to describe yourself in an interview?

In this post, we will go over some useful positive adjectives to describe yourself, as well as different personality profiles to shape your response to this common interview question.

9 Ways to Describe Yourself in an Interview

While you might have an idea of what traits and characteristics you want to highlight about yourself, you might not be sure how to format your answers. Sometimes, an interviewer wants you to give a detailed description of your character, and other times, they just want you to summarize who you are in as few words as possible. Either way, we’ve got you covered.

In the examples below, we’ve provided some sample interview questions and answers, along with some bonus tips. Feel free to take sentences from different responses to create your own, unique way of describing yourself! While we don’t recommend using these answers word-for-word, they should give you an idea of what good, effective interview answers look like.

Additionally, we highlight different strengths that may fit your personality or goals in the interview room. Every business, interviewer, and position can value different character traits. It’s important to know how to use that to your advantage.

Be sure to read the summary at the end of each tip to understand why and when to use them.

So, let’s look at 9 ways to describe yourself in an interview :

1. Describe Yourself as Flexible and Resourceful

Question: How would you describe yourself?

Sample answers :

I like to think that I’m a very flexible and resourceful person. Even when things change at the last minute, I’m able to adjust accordingly and meet tight deadlines. At my last job, the schedule was constantly changing, so I needed to be highly adaptable. Despite the chaotic environment, I always finished tasks on time.

Use this verbiage ( style of speaking) when interviewing for a position that requires a lot of changes on the job and strict timelines. This line of speaking is reserved for interviews where you’ve already researched the position and know what you’re getting yourself into. It reinforces to the interviewer that you can handle the pressure that comes with constant change.

2. Give a Short But Meaningful Summary About Yourself

Question type 1: describe yourself in 3 words..

Sample answers:

I would say that I’m creative, hard-working, and detail-oriented.

I think that I’m an analytical, dependable, and responsible person.

This is one type of short answer question that you’ll hear from a trained interviewer (or one who just read a book or blog about interviewing). It’s often heard at the beginning of the interview as a means of leading into more in-depth questions about your answer or at the end as a means of summary.

Have an answer ready to this question before you go into the interview so you can answer back quickly and confidently. Even if it isn’t asked, you can use those self-descriptive words as a framework for other answers to the interviewer’s questions. Even if you’re not asked the question directly, you will always need to describe yourself in an interview, to one degree or another.

Question Type 2: Describe yourself in one sentence.

I am a hard-working and driven individual who isn’t afraid to face a challenge.

I’m passionate about my work and I know how to get the job done.

I would describe myself as an open and honest person who doesn’t believe in misleading other people and tries to be fair in everything I do.

“Describe yourself in one sentence” is the other way to ask the short answer question. Take note of the summary above and use the three-word description as part of a summary sentence. This way you’ll have an answer to both questions with the same words.

I’m hard-working, driven, and fearless.

3. Talk About Yourself as a “Team Player”

Question: In your opinion, what are your most important traits?

I’m very communicative, detail-oriented, and versatile. I like to think of myself as a team player. While I don’t mind taking on solo projects, I prefer to work with others.

I like to think that I’m persistent and persuasive. Working in sales, these traits have served me well. Outside of work, I enjoy taking part in lively debates where I can share my views with others.

You did your research on the company and found that the work culture is based on community, group, and teamwork. If that’s the case, make sure the interviewer knows you can function well within that culture, and you enjoy socialization outside of it. Remember, for many employers, it’s just as important to fit into a work culture as it is to be able to do the job well.

4. Highlight Your Experience and Knowledge

Question: Tell me about yourself.

Well, I’m very knowledgeable in my field. I worked in IT for over 20 years before transitioning into more managerial roles. Thanks to my years of experience, I’m very meticulous in my work. I also like to keep things very professional. I’m very direct in all of my communications, but I’m also careful not to hurt anyone’s feelings.

I’ve worked as a systems analyst since I graduated from college. I am very particular about the details of my work, but I also like to stay open-minded to new ideas. I never want to close myself off to other people’s opinions.

For more technical positions, interviewers want to be reassured that you have the knowledge and experience to do the job well. When highlighting your experience and knowledge, be sure to be clear and concise, and know exactly what you want to highlight from your experience. Fumbling words or jumping around on a timeline will confuse the interviewer. Therefore, learning how to describe yourself in an interview also requires you to become comfortable speaking in a high-stakes setting.

5. Describe Yourself as a “Constant Learner”

I like to study new things. Being knowledgeable about (your field) or any subject is an ongoing process, and I’m always proactive about seeking new opportunities to develop and grow in my role. Those opportunities could be in the form of training, a conference, listening to a speaker, or taking on a new project, but the motivation is to increase my knowledge of the field.

This answer is reserved for interviewing for a position where you may not have enough experience, but you’re willing to learn. Be sure to have examples ready that prove you’ve been proactive about your learning experiences. Thus, knowing how to describe yourself in an interview without making yourself look inadequate is key.

6. Describe Yourself as a “People Person” (For Team-Oriented or Customer-Facing Jobs)

My most valuable trait is that I’m a people person who enjoys meeting new individuals and learning about their lives. I always find some common ground with everyone even if I have to get creative to do so.

It’s always helpful when you have someone on your team that you can rely on to make your customers feel comfortable and at ease and is emotionally resourceful in repairing or improving relationships within the team. I pride myself on having those traits.

The “most important traits” question is typically asked in the middle of the interview. Because of this, you’ll have a chance to gain more insight (from the interviewer’s questions) as to what type of individual they’re looking to hire. If they’re looking for a “people person,” it’s good to have an answer ready to complement that character trait.

7. Present Yourself as Confident (But Not Cocky)

Question: What words come to mind when you think about yourself?

I’m a mature, candid individual who has and values integrity. My confidence in myself and those traits are the reason people tend to come to me for answers to questions even if I’m not in a leadership position. Even if I don’t know the answer, I know I can point someone in the right direction.

When asked this question, follow up with a little background as to why you chose those words. You don’t have to just give descriptive words and stop speaking in this situation. Pause and let the words resonate with the interviewer.

And, to describe yourself as confident in an interview, you must speak with confidence (imagine that!). As you get ready for the interview, you want to both look and feel the part. Interviewers typically are trained or at least work with people, so they’ll be able to sense if you have doubts about what you’re saying.

8. Highlight Your Expertise with Numbers or Results

Question: How would you describe your personality?

I’m a results-oriented person who is confident in my ability to produce. Granted, I do have a degree of modesty, but I like to consistently set firm goals, and am constantly analyzing to see how far along I am (or the team is) and what I can do to achieve the goal. That pressure is inspiring and a great motivator.

Some companies are all about the numbers, and you should know that before you go into the interview. This is another situation where you really want to portray yourself as someone who can do what you say you can do. Be sure to have examples of when you hit your numbers ready for follow-up questions.

9. Present Yourself as a Self-Starter or an Independent Person

Question: Summarize yourself in as few words as possible.

I’m a positive and resourceful individual who can execute difficult tasks and doesn’t need to be micromanaged.

I’m a resolute and dependable person with unwavering determination to do well at my job and solve problems in the most autonomous manner possible.

Based on your career choice and/or a company’s work culture, you might have to prove that you have the ability to work on your own. I know as a freelance writer, this type of answer is my go-to to every potential client to reinforce that I can get the job done on my own and without supervision.

How to Describe Yourself in a Positive Way

Now that we’ve discussed how to describe yourself in an interview, let’s look at some positive words that will send the right message to your interviewers.

Positive Words to Describe Yourself During an Interview

• Knowledgeable
• Professional
• Responsible
• Open-minded
• Resourceful
• Disciplined
• Intelligent
• Hard-working
• Communicative
• Detail-oriented

For even more positive ways to describe yourself, check out this ultimate list of positive adjectives .

Final Tips on How to Describe Yourself in an Interview

Now that you know how to describe yourself using positive words, it’s time for some final tips that will help you formulate your own answers!

Here are a few things that you should keep in mind on how to describe yourself in an interview:

• Keep things positive – It’s fine if you want to talk about your strengths and weaknesses , but try to focus more on your strengths and positive attributes. Remember, an interviewer will be less inclined to hire you if your description is overly negative. So, be sure to keep things bright and positive!
• Don’t boast – This is the difficult part when it comes to how to describe yourself in an interview. You want to make yourself sound good, but you don’t want to sound arrogant (too confident). Instead, try to focus on your best qualities while recognizing the areas in which you could improve.
• Be honest – It’s easy to focus too much on the goal of impressing your interviewer. Oftentimes, this can lead you to exaggerate or even lie about your personality, abilities, etc. So, try to be honest with your answers. Even if you get the job, you might find it difficult to meet their expectations if you lied in the interview.
• Make your answers personal – The example answers above are meant to give you a general idea of how to describe yourself to an interviewer. That said, you don’t want to give generic answers about yourself. These won’t make you stand out as a candidate. Instead, try to personalize your answers. You can do this by mentioning your hobbies, interests, or experiences outside of work.
• Keep it short – While you should personalize your answers, no interviewer wants to hear your entire life story. You should always give complete answers that get straight to the point. In other words, your answers shouldn’t be long-winded or include a lot of irrelevant details.
• Be confident – Most importantly, in an interview, be confident about the things you say. Employers are looking for individuals who they can have confidence in to perform the duties of a position, and that starts from the first interview. After all, if you don’t have confidence in yourself, how can they have confidence in you?

After reading this, one interview question may seem a little overwhelming, especially when it’s just one part of an entire interview. If you take anything from these tips, know that it’s just an interview. Most people have many interviews throughout their careers whether it’s a position change or upgrade. And you may not do great in every single one.

But with preparation, positivity, and confidence, you can take these tips into the interview room and really make an impression with your interviewer. After the interview, be sure to write a job interview follow up email and write down some notes for yourself on how the interview went. These notes can help you better prepare for the next round or the next interview.

Like most skills, learning how to describe yourself in an interview is something that comes with a great deal of practice and experience. So be confident, be true to yourself, and good luck with your job search!

Matthew Jones

Free practice (Facebook group)

Phone: +1 (510) 560-7571

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• Job Interviews

How to Describe Yourself in an Interview [With Examples]

Our customers have been hired by:

“I’m a perfectionist. I always go above and beyond at work.”

“I’ve always loved computers. When I was small, I used to sit at the computer all day and...”

When the interviewers asks “How would you describe yourself?”, they’re throwing you a soft ball. Learn how to describe yourself in an interview so you don’t strike out from the start.

Read on to learn how to describe yourself in an interview and actually impress. You’ll find out the intent behind interviewers asking you to describe yourself and see examples of a great response.

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Have an important interview coming up? Check out:

• The Most Common Interview Questions and Answers
• 20 Situational Interview Questions and Answers
• 50+ Job Interview Tips & Tricks
• Top 20 Phone Interview Questions & Answers
• 65+ Best Questions to Ask an Interviewer
• Illegal Interview Questions an Employer Cannot Ask
• Thank You Email After an Interview: 6 Sample Notes for All Jobs
• 15+ Best Informational Interview Questions to Ask
• Follow-Up Email after an Interview: 10 Samples & Templates That Work
• The STAR Method for Answering Interview Questions
• Walk Me Through Your Resume [Interview Question]  
• What Makes You Unique? [Interview Question]
• Why Should We Hire You? [Interview Question]
• Why Do You Want to Work Here? [Interview Question]
• Reason for Leaving a Job [Interview Question]
• Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years? [Interview Question]
• What Are Your Strengths? [Interview Question]
• What Is Your Greatest Weakness? [Interview Question]
• What Motivates You? [Interview Question]
• What Are You Passionate About? [Interview Question]
• Describe Your Current Job Responsibilities [Interview Question]

How to Describe Yourself

Example: “I’m extremely passionate about what I do. I love tinkering with mechanical engineering projects both professionally and in my free time. As an undergrad, I developed the electric traction motor on the solar car team that helped us achieve third place at the American Solar Challenge. In my internship at GE, I helped increase an auxiliary turbine’s fuel efficiency by 9% by redesigning a part.”

1. Find Out the Intent Behind “How Would You Describe Yourself?” 

Many interviews are kicked off with the hiring manager asking you to describe yourself. At first glance, the question seems like a benign and friendly way for the interviewer to get to know you. 

And in many ways—it is. It’s a light-hearted question that helps lighten the mood and warm things up before more difficult interview questions. 

But—that doesn’t mean there’s no wrong way to answer it. In fact, there are many ways to screw your response up. To figure out what makes a good answer, it helps to know why interviewers so often ask some variation of “Tell me about yourself” .

The two main things the HR manager is looking for is:

• To see your interpersonal skills in action.
• To get acquainted with you on a professional level.

The best way to describe yourself will be fulfilling both of those requirements. 

First things first, soft skills are important. Few positions don’t require any kind of communication skills, and many require exceptional ones. The key to showing off your soft skills while answering this question, or any interview question, is to appear confident, remain calm, maintain eye contact, listen carefully, and respond succinctly without rambling. 

The second key to describing yourself is to make sure you’re answering the question in a professional way. You may be a very funny person, but describing yourself as a class clown won’t help you land that software engineering job. Instead, use professional words to describe yourself and leave out any personal details.

It’s also worth writing down your answer to this question and practicing saying it out loud a few times. If you don’t have access to a VR job interview simulator , have a family member or friend ask you the question and give feedback on your response.

Trying to talk about yourself on a resume? See:  How to Describe Yourself on a Resume the Right Way

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our professional resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

2. Examples of How to Describe Yourself in an Interview

Let’s get concrete. Here are some real life example of how to describe yourself in an interview:

As persistent 

Example answer: “I’m persistent. Once I set my eyes on the prize, I work hard to achieve my goal. In my role as marketing coordinator at Boston & Borris, I organized marketing campaigns with budgets over $250,000. The bar was set very high for those campaigns in terms of OKRs, but I continuously analyzed our content metrics to suggest new ideas whenever the current strategy wasn’t delivering.”

Why it works: Find character traits that give you the opportunity to talk about your biggest career wins and achievements . Bringing up your accomplishments also provides an opportunity for the hiring manager to ask follow up questions and create a natural flow to the conversation.

As highly organized 

Example answer: “I’m someone who loves to be organized. As the junior project manager at TechBubble, I was constantly creating and modifying existing project procedures to make our processes more efficient. When I saved my team 10 hours of collective work by simplifying the organizational structure in our project management system, I felt warm and fuzzy inside.”

Why it works: The way to hit a home run when describing yourself in an interview is to figure out which skills are most important in the job ad, and highlighting the ones you embody. In this example, if one of the requirements was organizational skills , then this answer checked that box without a doubt. 

As creative 

Example answer: “I love letting my creative juices flow. When I was the graphic designer at Rainbow Media, I often led brainstorming sessions with clients to come up with new brand logos, icons, typography, and other marketing material. While there, I developed over 50+ complete brand strategies that satisfied even the most demanding clients. If you’d like, I could go into more detail on a few in my portfolio.”

Why it works: Creativity is one of the most difficult job skills to provide proof of, and yet it’s a must-have for many professional fields. Using your answer to bring up your portfolio or other pieces of evidence can turn creativity from something airy-fairy to a skill with real-world results.

Looking for more adjectives to describe yourself? See: Good Resume Adjectives, Power Words, and Action Verbs

As dedicated 

Example answer: “I would have to say I’m dedicated. Although this will be my first year teaching full time, I’ve been tutoring students one-on-one for over six years. During that time, I've gone above and beyond helping students turn around their grades and receive competitive scores in standardized testing. The secret to my success is that I am internally motivated to help youth reach their goals.”

Why it works: Describing yourself as passionate or dedicated can tell the interviewer that the job you’re applying for is more than just a job to you. With that said, be careful with these terms. This is a trait often implied by candidates, so you can come off as dishonest if the HR manager is unconvinced of your authenticity.

As detail-oriented 

Example answer: “Well, I’m detail-oriented. I have over 5 years of experience in nursing, and in that time I’ve developed a talent for noticing small details that could be otherwise easily looked over. As you know, this is one of those skills that is quite difficult when you’re working in a fast-paced environment like a hospital. But I think my attention to detail is what allowed me to maintain 96% positive patient scores even with handing up to 10 patients at a time.”

Why it works:  Being detail-oriented is crucial for some jobs, and relating to the HR manager is a great way to build rapport and make a good impression. This works especially well when the hiring manager has been in the same role as the one you’re applying for. Just remember not to oversell yourself, as an experienced professional is likely to catch whiff of your exaggerations. 

As sociable 

Example answer: “I’m a sociable person. I’m quite extroverted, so I get more energized when I’m in direct contact with people. As a customer service professional at XYZ Inc, I was constantly interacting with clients and I loved it. Being able to communicate with customers in a casual way was the best part of my day. I think that’s part of why I was able to maintain a customer retention rate 25% above the average.”

Why it works: You can’t go wrong when describing yourself if you talk about your communication skills . They’re the key job skill in many roles. Just remember—with this character trait, you’ll have to walk the talk. You can’t talk about your great communication skills while mumbling and looking at the interviewers feet.

Pro Tip: According to the American Journal of Nursing guide on interviewing , you shouldn’t mention your hobbies or interests when describing yourself in an interview, unless the interviewer specifically asks. Remember to keep your personal description focused on your professional skills and experience.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Thanks for reading! Do you have any thoughts or questions on how to describe yourself in an interview? How would you describe yourself? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s chat in the comment section below!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://doi.org/10.1109/ZINC.2018.8448645

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Effective Self-Introductions (Inspiring Examples and Scripts)

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 22, 2023 — 21 minutes to read

• Structure of a Good Self-introduction Part 1
• Examples of Self Introductions in a Job Interview Part 2
• Examples of Self Introductions in a Meeting Part 3
• Examples of Casual Self-Introductions in Group Settings Part 4
• Examples of Self-Introductions on the First Day of Work Part 5
• Examples of Good Self Introductions in a Social Setting Part 6
• Examples of Good Self Introductions on Social Media Part 7
• Self-Introductions in a Public Speaking Scenario Part 8
• Name-Role-Achievements Method Template and Examples Part 9
• Past-Present-Future Method Template and Examples Part 10
• Job Application Self-Introduction Email Example Part 11
• Networking Event Self-Introduction Email Example Part 12
• Conference Self-Introduction Email Example Part 13
• Freelance Work Self-Introduction Email Example Part 14
• New Job or Position Self-Introduction Email Example Part 15

Whether you’re navigating a job interview, networking event, or simply meeting new people, the way you introduce yourself sets the tone for the entire interaction. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll equip you with the essential tools and techniques to confidently and effectively introduce yourself in any situation, leaving a lasting and positive impression.

Part 1 Structure of a Good Self-introduction

• 1. Greeting and introduction: Start by greeting the person you’re speaking to and introducing yourself. For example, “Hi, my name is Jane. Nice to meet you!”
• 2. Brief personal background: Give a brief overview of your personal background, such as where you’re from or what you do. For example, “I’m originally from California, but I moved to New York a few years ago. I work in marketing for a tech company.” Related: 10 Smart Answers: “Tell Me About Yourself”
• 3. Professional experience: Highlight your relevant professional experience, including your current or previous job titles and any notable achievements. For example, “I’ve been working in marketing for about 5 years now, and I’m currently a Senior Marketing Manager at my company. Last year, I led a successful campaign that resulted in a 20% increase in sales.” Related: How to Describe Yourself (Best Examples for Job Interviews)
• 4. Skills and strengths: Mention any skills or strengths that are relevant to the conversation or the situation you’re in. For example, “I’m really passionate about data analysis and using insights to inform marketing strategy. I’m also a strong communicator and enjoy collaborating with cross-functional teams.” Related: 195 Positive Words to Describe Yourself [with Examples] 35 Smart Answers to “What Are Your Strengths?” What Are Your Strengths And Weaknesses? (Answers & Strategies)
• 5. Personal interests: Wrap up your self-introduction by mentioning a few personal interests or hobbies, which can help to humanize you and make you more relatable. For example, “In my free time, I love hiking and exploring new trails. I’m also a big fan of trying out new restaurants and cooking at home.”
• Related: Core Values List: 150+ Awesome Examples of Personal Values Best Examples of “Fun Facts About Me” What Are Your Values? How to Discover Your Values

Part 2 Examples of Good Self Introductions in a Job Interview

When introducing yourself in an interview, you should be confident, clear, and knowledgeable. Maintain eye contact, speak with a steady tone, and be concise. Prepare your introduction beforehand to avoid stumbling or getting too wordy. Try to cover these aspects:

• Current or most recent position/job
• A relevant accomplishment or strength
• Why you are excited about the company or role

Templates and Scripts

“Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I recently worked as a [Your Most Recent Position] at [Company/Organization]. I successfully managed a team of [Number] members, achieving a [Relevant Accomplishment or Growth]. I’m excited about the opportunity at [Interviewer’s Company] because [Reason Why You’re Interested].”

“Hi, I’m [Your Name], a [Current Job Title or Major Accomplishment]. I’m passionate about [Relevant Industry or Skillset] and have a proven track record of [Specific Result or Achievement]. I believe my skills and experience make me well-suited for this role at [Company], and I’m excited to explore how I can contribute to [Company Goal or Project].”

“Hi, my name is Jane Doe, and I’m the Assistant Marketing Manager at ABC Corp. I recently implemented a successful social media campaign, which increased engagement by 30%. I’m thrilled about the possibility of working with XYZ Inc. because of your innovative marketing strategies.”

“Hello, I’m John Smith, a financial analyst with five years of experience in the banking industry. I’ve consistently exceeded sales targets and helped my team win an award for excellent customer service. I’m excited to join DEF Ltd. because of your focus on sustainable and responsible investing.”

Remember to tailor your introduction to the specific interview situation and always show enthusiasm for the position and company. This will show the interviewer that you are the right fit.

Related: How to Describe Yourself (Best Examples for Job Interviews)

Part 3 Examples of Good Self Introductions in a Meeting

General tips.

When introducing yourself in a meeting, consider these tips:

• Start with a greeting: Begin with a simple “hello” or “good morning.”
• State your name clearly: Don’t assume everyone knows you already.
• Mention your role in the company: Help others understand your position.
• Share relevant experience or accomplishments: Give context to your expertise.
• Be brief: Save detailed explanations for later conversations.
• Show enthusiasm: Display interest in the meeting and its objectives.
• Welcome others: Encourage a sense of connection and camaraderie.

Here are some templates and scripts to use when introducing yourself in a meeting:

• Basic introduction : Hi, I’m [Name], and I work as a [Your Role] in the [Department]. It’s great to meet you all.
• Involvement-focused : Good morning, everyone. I’m [Name], [Your Role]. I handle [Responsibility] in our team, and I’m looking forward to working with you on [Project].
• Experience-based : Hello! My name is [Name] and I’m the [Your Role] here. I’ve [Number of Years] of experience in [Skills or Industry], so I hope to contribute to our discussions during the meeting.

Here are some examples of self-introductions in different scenarios:

• New team member : Hi, I’m [Name]. I just joined the [Department] team as the new [Your Role]. I have a background in [Relevant Experience] and am excited to start working with you on our projects!
• External consultant : Hello everyone, my name is [Name], and I’m here in my capacity as a [Your Role] with [Your Company]. I specialize in [Skill or Industry], and I’m looking forward to partnering with your team to achieve our goals.
• Guest speaker : Good morning, I’m [Name], a [Your Position] at [Organization]. I have expertise in [Subject], and I’m honored to be here today to share my insights with you.

Related: 10 Smart Answers: “Tell Me About Yourself”

Part 4 Examples of Casual Self-Introductions in Group Settings

Template 1:.

“Hi, I’m [your name], and I’m a [profession or role]. I love [personal hobby or interest].”

“Hi, I’m Emily, and I’m a pediatric nurse. I love gardening and spending my weekends tending to my colorful flower beds.”

“Hello, I’m Mark, and I work as a data analyst. I love reading science fiction novels and discussing the intricacies of the stories with fellow book enthusiasts.”

“Hey there, I’m Jessica, and I’m a chef. I have a passion for traveling and trying new cuisines from around the world, which complements my profession perfectly.”

Template 2:

“Hey everyone, my name is [your name]. I work as a [profession or role], and when I’m not doing that, I enjoy [activity].”

“Hey everyone, my name is Alex. I work as a marketing manager, and when I’m not doing that, I enjoy hiking in the wilderness and capturing the beauty of nature with my camera.”

“Hello, I’m Michael. I work as a software developer, and when I’m not coding, I enjoy playing chess competitively and participating in local tournaments.”

“Hi there, I’m Sarah. I work as a veterinarian, and when I’m not taking care of animals, I enjoy painting landscapes and creating art inspired by my love for wildlife.”

“Hi there! I’m [your name]. I’m currently working as a [profession or role], and I have a passion for [hobby or interest].”

“Hi there! I’m Rachel. I’m currently working as a social worker, and I have a passion for advocating for mental health awareness and supporting individuals on their journeys to recovery.”

“Hello, I’m David. I’m currently working as a financial analyst, and I have a passion for volunteering at local animal shelters and helping rescue animals find their forever homes.”

“Hey, I’m Lisa. I’m currently working as a marine biologist, and I have a passion for scuba diving and exploring the vibrant underwater ecosystems that our oceans hold.”

Related: 195 Positive Words to Describe Yourself [with Examples]

Part 5 Examples of Good Self-Introductions on the First Day of Work

On your first day of work, it’s crucial to make a good impression with a well-crafted self-introduction. Keep it brief and concise, focusing on your name, role, and background. Make sure to smile, maintain eye contact, and exude confidence. It’s fine to share a little about your personal life, but avoid oversharing.

Here are some templates and scripts to help guide your self-introduction:

• Simple Introduction : “Hi, my name is [Your name], and I’m the new [Your position] here. I recently graduated from [Your university or institution] and am excited to join the team. I’m looking forward to working with you all.”
• Professional Background : “Hello everyone, I’m [Your name]. I’ve joined as the new [Your position]. With my background in [Your skills or experience], I’m eager to contribute to our projects and learn from all of you. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.”
• Personal Touch : “Hey there! I’m [Your name], and I’ve recently joined as the new [Your position]. On the personal side, I enjoy [Your hobbies] during my free time. I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you and working together.”

Feel free to tweak these scripts as needed to fit your personality and work environment.

Here are some specific examples of self-introductions on the first day of work:

• Marketing Manager : “Hi, my name is Alex, and I’m excited to be the new Marketing Manager here. I’ve been in the marketing industry for five years and have worked on various campaigns. Outside of work, I love exploring new hiking trails and photography. I can’t wait to collaborate with you all.”
• Software Engineer : “Hello, I’m Priya, your new Software Engineer. I graduated from XYZ University with a degree in computer science and have experience in Python, Java, and web development. In my free time, I enjoy playing the guitar and attending live concerts. I’m eager to contribute to our team’s success and learn from all of you.”

Related: Core Values List: 150+ Awesome Examples of Personal Values

Part 6 Examples of Good Self Introductions in a Social Setting

When introducing yourself in a social setting, it’s crucial to create a positive impression. Keep your body language open and approachable, maintain eye contact, smile, and project confidence. Start with a greeting and follow up with your name. Share something interesting or unique about yourself to engage others in conversation, but avoid oversharing or dominating the conversation. Listen actively and show interest in others, asking questions and seeking common ground.

Here are some templates and scripts to help with your self-introduction in various social settings:

Casual gatherings: “Hi, I’m [Name]. Nice to meet you! I’m a huge fan of [hobby]. How about you, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?”

Networking events: “Hello, I’m [Name] and I work as a [profession] at [company]. I’m excited to learn more about what everyone here does. What brings you here today?”

Parties at a friend’s house: “Hi there, my name is [Name]. I’m a friend of [host’s name] from [work/school/etc]. How do you know [host’s name]?”

Here are some examples of self-introductions in various social settings:

• Casual gathering: “Hey, my name is Jane. Great to meet you! I love exploring new coffee shops around the city. What’s your favorite thing to do on weekends?”
• Networking event: “Hi, I’m John, a website developer at XY Technologies. I’m eager to connect with people in the industry. What’s your field of expertise?”
• Party at a friend’s house: “Hello, I’m Laura. I met our host, Emily, in our college photography club. How did you and Emily become friends?”

Related: Best Examples of “Fun Facts About Me”

Part 7 Examples of Good Self Introductions on Social Media

When introducing yourself on social media, keep it concise, personable, and informative. Showcase your personality while maintaining a professional tone. To stand out, include unique interests or hobbies, and highlight your skills or achievements.

• Keep it brief: Social media is fast-paced, so stick to the essentials and keep your audience engaged.
• Show your personality: Let your audience know who you are beyond your job title or education.
• Include a call-to-action: Encourage your followers to engage with you by asking a question or directing them to your website or other social media profiles.

Template 1: Brief and professional

Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m a [Job Title/Field] with a passion for [Interests or Hobbies]. Connect with me to chat about [Subject Matter] or find more of my work at [Website or Social Media Handle].

Template 2: Casual and personal

Hey there! I’m [Your Name] and I love all things [Interest or Hobby]. In my day job, I work as a [Job Title/Field]. Let’s connect and talk about [Shared Interest] or find me on [Other Social Media Platforms]!

Template 3: Skill-focused

Hi, I’m [Your Name], a [Job Title/Field] specializing in [Skills or Expertise]. Excited to network and share insights on [Subject Matter]. Reach out if you need help with [Skill or Topic] or want to discuss [Related Interest]!

Example 1: Brief and professional

Hi, I’m Jane Doe. I’m a Marketing Manager with a passion for photography and blogging. Connect with me to chat about the latest digital marketing trends or find more of my work at jdoephotography.com.

Example 2: Casual and personal

Hey there! I’m John Smith and I love all things coffee and travel. In my day job, I work as a software developer. Let’s connect and talk about adventures or find me on Instagram at @johnsmithontour!

Example 3: Skill-focused

Hi, I’m Lisa Brown, a Graphic Designer specializing in branding and typography. Excited to network and share insights on design. Reach out if you need help with creating visually appealing brand identities or want to discuss minimalistic art!

Part 8 Self-Introductions in a Public Speaking Scenario

When introducing yourself in a public speaking scenario, maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and show enthusiasm. Keep it concise, focusing on your background and what you bring to the table. Stay genuine, along with sharing something relatable or interesting about yourself to form an emotional connection.

• Professional introduction: “Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I have [number of years] of experience working in [your field]. Throughout my career, I have [briefly mention one or two significant accomplishments]. Today, I am excited to share [the main point of your presentation].”
• Casual introduction: “Hey everyone, I’m [Your Name], and I [briefly describe yourself, e.g., your hobbies or interests]. I’m really thrilled to talk to you about [the main point of your presentation]. Let’s dive right into it!”
• Creative introduction: “Imagine [paint a visual with a relevant story]. That’s where my passion began for [the main point of your presentation]. My name is [Your Name], and [mention relevant background/information].”
• Professional introduction: “Hello, my name is Jane Smith, and I have 15 years of experience working in marketing and advertisement. Throughout my career, I have helped companies increase their revenue by up to 50% using creative marketing strategies. Today, I am excited to share my insights in implementing effective social media campaigns.”
• Casual introduction: “Hey everyone, I’m John Doe, and I love hiking and playing the guitar in my free time. I’m really thrilled to talk to you about the impact of music on mental well-being, a topic close to my heart. Let’s dive right into it!”
• Creative introduction: “Imagine standing at the edge of a cliff, looking down at the breathtaking view of nature. That’s where my passion began for landscape photography. My name is Alex Brown, and I’ve been fortunate enough to turn my hobby into a successful career. Today, I’ll share my expertise on capturing stunning images with just a few simple techniques.”

Effective Templates for Self-Introductions

Part 9 name-role-achievements method template and examples.

When introducing yourself, consider using the NAME-ROLE-ACHIEVEMENTS template. Start with your name, then mention the role you’re in, and highlight key achievements or experiences you’d like to share.

“Hello, I’m [Your Name]. I’m currently working as a [Your Current Role/Position] with [Your Current Company/Organization]. Some of my key achievements or experiences include [Highlight 2-3 Achievements or Experiences].”

“Hello, I’m Sarah Johnson. I’m a Senior Software Engineer with over 10 years of experience in the tech industry. Some of my key achievements include leading a cross-functional team to develop a groundbreaking mobile app that garnered over 5 million downloads and receiving the ‘Tech Innovator of the Year’ award in 2020.”

“Hi there, my name is [Your Name]. I serve as a [Your Current Role] at [Your Current Workplace]. In my role, I’ve had the opportunity to [Describe What You Do]. One of my proudest achievements is [Highlight a Significant Achievement].”

“Hi there, my name is David Martinez. I currently serve as the Director of Marketing at XYZ Company. In my role, I’ve successfully executed several high-impact marketing campaigns, resulting in a 30% increase in brand visibility and a 15% boost in revenue last year.”

Template 3:

“Greetings, I’m [Your Name]. I hold the position of [Your Current Role] at [Your Current Company]. With [Number of Years] years of experience in [Your Industry], I’ve had the privilege of [Mention a Notable Experience].”

“Greetings, I’m Emily Anderson. I hold the position of Senior Marketing Manager at BrightStar Solutions. With over 8 years of experience in the technology and marketing industry, I’ve had the privilege of spearheading the launch of our flagship product, which led to a 40% increase in market share within just six months.”

Part 10 Past-Present-Future Method Template and Examples

Another template is the PAST-PRESENT-FUTURE method, where you talk about your past experiences, your current situation, and your future goals in a concise and engaging manner.

“In the past, I worked as a [Your Previous Role] where I [Briefly Describe Your Previous Role]. Currently, I am [Your Current Role] at [Your Current Workplace], where I [Briefly Describe Your Current Responsibilities]. Looking to the future, my goal is to [Your Future Aspirations].”

“In the past, I worked as a project manager at ABC Corporation, where I oversaw the successful delivery of multiple complex projects, each on time and within budget. Currently, I’m pursuing an MBA degree to enhance my business acumen and leadership skills. Looking to the future, my goal is to leverage my project management experience and MBA education to take on more strategic roles in the company and contribute to its long-term growth.”

“In my earlier career, I [Describe Your Past Career Experience]. Today, I’m [Your Current Role] at [Your Current Company], where I [Discuss Your Current Contributions]. As I look ahead, I’m excited to [Outline Your Future Plans and Aspirations].”

“In my previous role as a software developer, I had the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies, including AI and machine learning. Today, I’m a data scientist at XYZ Labs, where I analyze large datasets to extract valuable insights. In the future, I aspire to lead a team of data scientists and contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of artificial intelligence.”

“During my previous role as a [Your Previous Role], I [Discuss a Relevant Past Achievement or Experience]. Now, I am in the position of [Your Current Role] at [Your Current Company], focusing on [Describe Your Current Focus]. My vision for the future is to [Share Your Future Goals].”

“During my previous role as a Sales Associate at Maplewood Retail, I consistently exceeded monthly sales targets by fostering strong customer relationships and providing exceptional service. Now, I am in the position of Assistant Store Manager at Hillside Emporium, where I focus on optimizing store operations and training the sales team to deliver outstanding customer experiences. My vision for the future is to continue growing in the retail industry and eventually take on a leadership role in multi-store management.”

Examples of Self-introduction Emails

Part 11 job application self-introduction email example.

Subject: Introduction from [Your Name] – [Job Title] Application

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to introduce myself and express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Profession] with [Number of Years] of experience in the field.

I am impressed with [Company Name]’s reputation for [Company’s Achievements or Mission]. I am confident that my skills and experience align with the requirements of the job, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the company’s success.

Please find my resume attached for your review. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and learn more about the position. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Related: Get More Interviews: Follow Up on Job Applications (Templates)

Part 12 Networking Event Self-Introduction Email Example

Subject: Introduction from [Your Name]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am excited to introduce myself to you. I am currently working as a [Your Profession] and have been in the field for [Number of Years]. I am attending the [Networking Event Name] event next week and I am hoping to meet new people and expand my network.

I am interested in learning more about your work and experience in the industry. Would it be possible to schedule a quick call or meeting during the event to chat further?

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Part 13 Conference Self-Introduction Email Example

Subject: Introduction from [Your Name] – [Conference or Event Name]

I am excited to introduce myself to you as a fellow attendee of [Conference or Event Name]. My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Profession or Industry].

I am looking forward to the conference and the opportunity to network with industry experts like yourself. I am particularly interested in [Conference or Event Topics], and I would love to discuss these topics further with you.

If you have some free time during the conference, would you be interested in meeting up for coffee or lunch? I would love to learn more about your experience and insights in the industry.

Part 14 Freelance Work Self-Introduction Email Example

Subject: Introduction from [Your Name] – Freelance Writer

Dear [Client’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I am a freelance writer with [Number of Years] of experience in the industry. I came across your website and was impressed by the quality of your content and the unique perspective you offer.

I am writing to introduce myself and express my interest in working with you on future projects. I specialize in [Your Writing Niche], and I believe my skills and experience would be a great fit for your content needs.

Please find my portfolio attached for your review. I would love to discuss your content needs further and explore how we can work together to achieve your goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Part 15 New Job or Position Self-Introduction Email Example

Subject: Introduction from [Your Name] – New [Job Title or Position]

Dear [Team or Department Name],

I am excited to introduce myself as the new [Job Title or Position] at [Company Name]. My name is [Your Name], and I am looking forward to working with all of you.

I have [Number of Years] of experience in the industry and have worked on [Your Achievements or Projects]. I am excited to bring my skills and experience to the team and contribute to the company’s success.

I would love to schedule some time to meet with each of you and learn more about your role in the company and how we can work together. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to meeting all of you soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can you create a powerful self-introduction script for job interviews.

To make a strong impression in job interviews, prepare a script that includes:

• Your name and current role or profession.
• Relevant past experiences and accomplishments.
• Personal skills or attributes relevant to the job.
• A brief mention of your motivation for applying.
• An engaging statement that connects your aspirations with the role or company.

Practice delivering your script with confidence and enthusiasm, maintaining eye-contact, and using a warm, professional tone.

How can students present a captivating self-introduction in class?

For an engaging self-introduction in class, consider mentioning:

• Your name and major.
• Where you’re from or something unique about your upbringing.
• Hobbies, interests, or extracurricular activities.
• An interesting fact or anecdote about yourself.
• Your academic or career goals and how they connect to the class.

Be sure to smile, maintain eye contact, and demonstrate enthusiasm and openness to making new connections.

What are tips for introducing yourself to a new team at work?

When introducing yourself to a new team at work, consider the following tips:

• Be friendly, respectful, and approachable.
• Start with your name and role, then briefly describe your responsibilities.
• Mention your background, skills, and relevant experiences.
• Share a personal interest or fun fact to add a personal touch.
• Express how excited you are to be part of the team and your desire to collaborate effectively.

How do you structure a self-introduction in English for various scenarios?

Regardless of the scenario, a well-structured self-introduction includes:

• Greeting and stating your name.
• Mentioning your role, profession, or status.
• Providing brief background information or relevant experiences.
• Sharing a personal touch or unique attribute.
• Concluding with an engaging statement, relevant to the context, that shows your enthusiasm or interest.
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15 Ways to Describe Yourself in a Job Interview

Be sincere and authentic when describing yourself in a job interview . Practice your response but make sure it comes naturally and not sound rehearsed. 

In just about every sales interview, the interviewer asks the question, “How would you describe yourself?” While this is something that should be anticipated and practiced, many job seekers overlook the importance of this question and fail to take the time to formulate the right answers.

Moreover,​ when describing ourselves, we should approach our answers in an honest, candid manner and even though some answers are laid out below, always ensure that you phrase these in our own words as authenticity is important.

Here are 15 ways to describe yourself for your next sales interview:

1. revenue generator.

“I am confident in my abilities to produce and while I prepare for the worst, I do the work necessary to tilt the odds that the best will happen.”  

2. Top Performer

“I want to be judged by individual performance and I want be rewarded for my efforts based on their my to execute.”

3. Vision for Success

“I seek to work for a successful company that has strong leadership and vision and who recognizes and rewards performers.” 

4. Growth and Development

“I am someone who is consistently growing themselves and who takes the time to continue learning even though it’s not a direct requirement of the job.  I find that many times it’s a combination of what you study both directly and indirectly related to work.”

5. Goal Oriented

“I am modest, but hard working and I consistently sets firm goals for myself.  Then, once I’ve defined the benchmarks, I take the necessary steps to achieve those milestones.” 

6. Customer Focused

“Someone who has a consultative selling style and who is concerned with the clients’ needs – consistently asking questions to uncover the what the client truly wants then being able to meet those requirements.”  

7. Positive Self-Starter

“Someone who thinks positively and who can execute on difficult tasks. I’m not an individual who needs to be micro-managed. Rather, when given a specific task, I can figure out the best ways to solve the problem in an autonomous manner.” 

8. Leadership

“I am a person who is able to control a situation rather than have a situation control them.”  

9. Self-Determined

“I am someone who has an unwavering resolve. I am determined to do well in my job and am determined to have a successful career as well as make the company I work for more competitive.”  

10. Results Oriented and Pragmatic

“I have a need to produce results. I am the type of person to meet challenges head-on rather than sweep them under the rug and hope they go away. While I’m an optimistic person, I am also realistic about the current situation and how satisfactory or unsatisfactory it is.”  

11. Driven to Excellence

“I am someone who has been able to not only meet my employer’s expectations, but I would describe myself as a person who has consistently exceeded those markers.”  

12. Accountable

“I take responsibility for my actions and when things go wrong I don’t look to outside forces to blame, rather I’m someone who looks at where I can improve upon the next time around.  Pointing fingers solves nothing.”  

13. Resolute and Decisive

“I am someone who demonstrates an unwavering resolve to do whatever must be done to produce the best long-term results, no matter how difficult.”  

14. Community Minded Team Player

“I am committed to building something larger and who puts aside personal gain for the well-being of the group.” 

15. Strong Personal Values

“I am someone who is mature, candid and who has integrity.  Everyday I work to improve myself and my skills which is part of maturing and becoming better at what I do.”  

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39 Job Interview Questions to Expect, with Answers

As the tech industry's seemingly never-ending rounds of layoffs continue on and on, we're all getting a lot more interested in acing job interviews.

In a way, interviewing well is the most in-demand skill of them all: If you don't know someone who knows someone, it's practically a prerequisite for getting any job at all. And, since we're all too busy doing our jobs, it's a rarely practiced skill to boot.

Luckily, job interviewers tend to stick to the same types of questions: They'll ask about your past job experience, and they'll try to figure out if you're a culture fit. Here, we've rounded up all the top questions that a job interviewer is likely to ask, along with a handful of questions that you may want to ask them.

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Tell Me About Yourself

You should consider preparing a quick summary of your work persona: Mention a few hobbies, how much you love your pets, and, just to really blow them away, throw in your favorite ice cream flavor.

They're likely to ask for something more specific about yourself as well, too. Here are the usual questions to be ready for:

1. What are your strengths?

As with all the questions in this category, you'll need to find an answer that's honest to your personality. But it never hurts to consider some of the greatest hits here: Perhaps you're great at communicating effectively, collaborating with others, or problem-solving under pressure.

2. What are your weaknesses?

Some will suggest that you answer with a version of “I care too much” or “I work too hard.” But even if this is true for you, it's cliche and weird to flex about your terrible work-life balance in 2024.

Instead, pick a genuine weakness (nothing too terrible), and then follow up immediately to explain how you've already begun working to address this issue. For example, you could say that you sometimes get caught up in the details, but this has led you to realign your workflow regularly to ensure you move on to the next task at an appropriate speed.

3. Why do you want to work for this company?

To answer this one, think about what stands out about the company. If they're small, you can benefit from how agile and scrappy they are. If they're large, you'll benefit from the internal network of knowledgable coworkers.

4. Why are you interested in this position?

Find an answer to this that's personal to you, but that makes it clear that your values align with the organization, and you see a path towards growing your skills and experience at the new position.

5. Can you walk me through your resume?

When answering this one, focus on two points. First, you'll want to highlight why your past positions are  relevant to the current position you're hoping to land. Second, you'll also want to emphasize the diverse range of experiences you've banked in the past.

Prove Your Experience

A job interviewer needs to know you have the proven industry knowledge to handle everything in real life that you can already do on paper. Here are some questions about your job history they'll likely ask some version of.

6. What relevant experience do you have?

Look through your employment history for positions in the industry or the same job role. If you don't have them, focus on the most relevant skills. Any growth statistics you can highlight from your time at the company will be good to keep in mind.

7. How do you handle pressure or stressful situations?

I don't know, how  do you handle them? If you love them, say so. If you hate them, say that and then explain the steps you take to avoid feeling like a situation is stressful, like establishing a gameplan ahead of time.

8. What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?

This is a broad question, so start out by narrowing the field: What was the biggest project you worked on at your most relevant previous position? That's likely the best area to focus on, although you might win a few brownie points by saying your greatest accomplishment was raising your kids.

9. What motivates you?

You're likely best of answering this by focusing on the work itself: You like challenging yourself, growing, and gaining new skills that add up to more than the sum of their total.

10. Where do you see yourself in five years?

If you have clear career goals, discuss them. For everyone else, highlight the skills that this position offers and that you'd love to develop.

11. What do you enjoy most about your last job?

You can add a little structure to your response by opening with a summary of a project or goal that you helped work on, followed by the actions you enjoyed taking to address the issue. The point is to bring up a skillset that will transfer to your new position.

Give Examples

Even once you've prepared for all the questions above, you still won't be done proving your experience. Most job interviewers are also looking for specific examples from your past that illustrate your relevant skills and perspective.

12. Describe a challenge you faced at work and how you overcame it.

A good general template for any specific experience is to describe a situation , your actions in response, and the impact that you achieved.

13. Can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated leadership skills?

Think of a time when you took intiative to make a decision when your manager wasn't around to make it for you. You don't have to fully take charge to exhibit “leadership skills,” either, since this term could be interpreted to mean that you deligated responsibility or took point on a small section of a larger project.

14. Describe a time when you had to adapt to change.

Ideally, you'll want to pick a challenge that you made a clearly outlined change in response to. Follow the story up by explaining what interpersonal or technical skill you learned from the experience.

15. Describe a time when you had to solve a complex problem.

A few things the interviewer might be looking for when asking this question: How you break a big problem down into smaller sections, and if you're willing to ask others for help. Pick a story that illustrates these principles.

16. Tell me about a time when you failed and what you learned from it.

This potential question is an easy one to be unprepared for, since it involves admitting to a failure. If you have a story ready to go (and an explanation for how you recovered afterwards), you might stand out from the other interviewees.

17. Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond in your role.

The interviewer won't ask too many of these questions, so as long as you have a two-to-four potential stories ready to go, you can likely cover all your bases.

Are You a Culture Fit?

Employers want someone who will easily slot into the existing structure of their business. Here's what they might ask to suss out if you fit the bill.

18. Why did you leave your previous job?

If you haven't yet left your current position, this question might be phrased as “why are you looking to leave your current job?” Either way, the interviewer just needs a response that makes sense, shows your interest in furthering your career, aligns with their company's values, or some combination of the above.

19. What do you know about our company?

Do some research into the company's accolades. Anything that makes the company unique is worth bringing up, and of course any (authentic) praise you can muster will go over well.

20. How do you work in a team environment?

What team player traits do you love and exhibit? This might be effective communication, willingness to collaborate, a positive attitude, or something more specific, like how you enjoy breakout rooms in Zoom calls or how you collect Post-its for your idea board.

21. How do you handle conflicts with coworkers?

Saying you can always handle conflicts might sound too defensive in response to this question. Instead, think of a specific example of a way you butted heads with a coworker in the past and how you worked to defuse the situation. Emphase traits like active listening, open communciation, and a solution that works for everyone, not just you.

22. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively?

This is a chance to show that you're a team player. Emphasize how you determine the importance of your deadlines, considering how other teams in our organization are affected. Feel free to mention specific software tools that help streamline your workflow.

23. How do you handle constructive criticism?

Let the interviewer know that you don't take feedback personally, even if it's negative.

24. What relevant skills do you possess for this role?

You should figure out which of your skills are most relevant ahead of the interview, which allows you to prepare an example or two of your work while at a previous position.

25. Are you comfortable working independently?

Explain that you love to take initiative, and can handle all the tasks in the job listing effectively without a need for constant supervision. Of course, you do require the right amount of open communication, particularly when tackling the intial learning curve.

Brag About Yourself

Any company wants to hire the best person for the job. You'll have to find a way to let them know that's you, while still making it clear that you're a team player.

26. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Line up your skills, experience, and personal attributes. Add in something that makes you stand out, from your proactive problem-solving to your personable approach to internal networking.

For bonus points, you can wrap up your answer with a note about what makes their company worth applying to – it's a compliment, but it highlights that you're interviewing them as much as they're interviewing you.

27. How do you define success?

Good answers to this question tend to be a little lofty, from “feeling fulfilled” to “finding meaningful work.” Whatever the case, you can achieve it with ongoing growth, learning from failures… and landing this job.

28. How do you stay organized?

Explain the general tips for keeping on track, from task grouping to time management. You can also get into specific software tools as well, from your Google Calendar skills to your project management software knowledge.

29. Can you describe your work ethic?

The right answer to this will be unique to you, but common traits to highlight here might include: Dedication, reliability, enthusiasm, passion, detail-oriented, integrity. Pick a few that describe you best and don't mention any that don't fit as well.

30. Can you describe your approach to continuous learning and professional development?

Perhaps you spend your free time upskilling and learning new code languages. If not, however, you can still answer this one proudly: Everyone's continually learning new skills at any job, so you can just cite the most recent or most interesting new projects that you've taken on, and what abilities they require from you.

The Practical and Nitty-Gritty Questions

Not all common job interview questions are as general as the options listed above. Here, we get into the questions that you can't sweet-talk your way through. You'll need to know exactly what software, websites, or numbers to have on hand.

31. Are you comfortable with [specific software or technology]?

You should have a list of the software that you're familar with in mind. Don't overpromise, though: After all, you've (probably?) figured out more than one project management tool in your time, so one more should be easy enough.

32. How do you stay updated in your field?

What industry newsletter or website do you regularly read? Any podcasts or YouTube courses? As long as you enjoy your career, this can be a fun question to answer and might even demonstrate your passion.

33. What are your salary expectations?

This is one of the toughest job interview questions to answer: You don't want to name a specific figure, as it sets a benchmark that can leave you underpaid, but you don't want to say anything so high that you're rejected, either.

You should mention that salary isn't the only important element of which job offer you'll accept, but ultimately, you may need to name the range that your research shows will fit your skills and geographic location.

Do You Have Any Questions for Us?

At the end of the interview, you might be asked for any questions from your side. Even if you're not, piping up with at least one or two questions is the right move in most cases: It's often seen as a sign that you're fully engaged in the process.

Here are some of the best questions to ask, with my favorite one listed first:

34. Can you tell me what you loved the most about how the previous person in this position did their job?

This shows you're aware that you're potentially stepping into someone else's shoes and you're interested in easing the transition as you enter the same role. Plus, it gives your interviewer the choice to either praise or bad-mouth their previous employee – either way, you'll gain some insight into the workplace culture you may be entering.

35. Can you describe the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?

This question gets to the nitty-gritty details, and might lead to a discussion of the software tools or workflow specificities to expect at your new job. It's a good one to ask during a second or third interview, when it's clear you're both serious about the potential of being hired.

36. What are the company's short-term and long-term goals, and how does this position contribute to achieving them?

This shows that you're looking for a job that's clearly aligned with the direction that the entire company is headed. If your job is valued by the company, you'll have job security and the potential for further growth as long as you do that job well.

37. What opportunities can you offer for professional development and advancement?

Another forward-thinking question, this asks the company to explain what skills and experiences it can offer you, rather than the other way around. If the interviewer struggles to answer, they're indicating that the company isn't committed to employee development.

38. Can you tell me about the company culture and what it's like to work here?

This question could prompt a range of responses, and you may like some responses more than others. Do you want to work at a fast-paced organization, or one that prioritizes slow and steady accomplishment instead? Whatever the case, you need a company culture that suits you.

39. What are the next steps in the hiring process?

This is a good wrap-up question, as it transitions the whole conversation into the next stage of the timeline and pragmatically signals a conclusion to the current interview.

Job Interviewing Tips

Once you've figured out potential answers to most of the questions listed in this guide, you're almost ready. The final step? Forget all those notes you just took and clear your mind.

It might sound counterintuitive, but the key element to winning a job interview is quiet confidence, and trying to re-state all of your prepared answers exactly as you wrote them will probably make you seem stiff. Instead, stay flexible: You can remix and shuffle around your answers in any way that makes sense.

Finally, if you don't have an answer for a curveball, feel free to just admit it. You'll sound more confident as a result, and it's a human moment. Ultimately, what matters is connecting with your interviewer and letting them know you'll be a reasonable coworker. Well, provided you also let them know you have the experience, skills, and personality to handle the gig.

We're sorry this article didn't help you today – we welcome feedback, so if there's any way you feel we could improve our content, please email us at [email protected]

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How to Write an Essay about Yourself — The Ultimate Guide

By: Author Marcel Iseli

Posted on Last updated: April 13, 2023

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Of all people in this world, you know yourself best. Nevertheless, writing an essay about yourself is not, and will never be, a walk in the park.

While it is a bit grueling, knowing how to write an essay about yourself effectively can be your ticket to Mars – or more precisely, to your dream job or scholarship somewhere in this world.

So, today, we’ll look into the secret recipes of writing an essay about the self. Examples and explanations are available, too, to make things easier to digest.

Let’s begin with a brief answer.

Writing an essay about yourself

• Know your audience
• Write for your audience
• Stick to one topic
• Avoid sensitive topics
• Be cohesive
• Be personal
• Mention relevant people
• Proofread your work

How to write an essay about yourself in more detail

Writing is not for everyone. So, no matter how seemingly easy the topic is, like writing about the self, we can’t really say that everyone can do it.

But, on the brighter side, writing is a skill, and thus, it can be learned. Time and effort are the two main ingredients needed to get better at it.

So, to create an essay about yourself, here are eight guidelines that you can refer to and follow to make essay writing less taxing.

1. Know your audience

Knowing your audience allows you to convey your message effectively. Apart from that, it allows you to talk directly to whoever your reader is.

This can be done by doing research in advance. So, if you’re writing an essay about yourself, you need to have some idea as to who will be evaluating your essay.

If you are applying for a job, for instance, you need to bear in mind that one of the Human Resources staff will most likely be your target audience.

All in all, knowing your audience should give you a great avenue for your essay preparation as a whole; this allows you to take control of whatever writing piece you want to focus on.

2. Write for your audience

Apart from knowing your audience, it is needless to say that you have to write for your audience too.

Yes, you will be discussing your life in your essay, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t connect to your audience when doing such a thing.

Writing for your audience basically means looking for a strategy to make your target reader empathize with your story.

In other words, you have to write in such a way that your reader gets too immersed in your work that he or she will be reading until the last word in your conclusion.

Thus, you have to make your story as interesting as possible – just like how prose writers do their job, or at least close to it.

3. Stick to one topic

When writing an essay about yourself, it is advised to focus on one topic. So, instead of writing every relevant experience you’ve had, it is best to stick to one and go in-depth with it.

This allows you to write a richer essay, and at the same time, this would also keep your reader hooked on a particular event in your life.

Writing one too many topics in a single essay is not suggested because it derails your audience from what you really want to convey.

To contextualize, just think of a teacher introducing ten book chapters in a sixty-minute class. Apparently, you are less likely to retain all the information in this scenario.

So, again, think of a single topic that has essentially molded you to become a better version of yourself and just stick to it.

4. Avoid sensitive topics

While you can generally be free as to which topic you’d be writing about, there are certain things that you might want to steer clear of.

Some of these sensitive topics include gender, religion, social taboos, and politics. You should also avoid saying negative things about certain people and their beliefs in your essay.

In case your personal experience has something to do with sensitive issues, the best thing you can do is to focus on how you were able to cope with it.

Again, avoid name-dropping people who may have wronged you before so you won’t get off-topic.

5. Be cohesive

Cohesion or unity is not only important within a nation. It is also a fundamental aspect of writing and any other structured communication activity.

Effectively connecting your ideas by transforming them into readable text allows you to demonstrate your organizational skills to your reader.

Needless to say, you also need to be as coherent or logical as possible when presenting your inner thoughts so that your audience can be in-sync with you.

You can show cohesion by using connective devices such as conjunctions and adverbs or a combination of both, conjunctive adverbs, especially at the beginning of your paragraph or sentence.

6. Be personal

As you are writing an essay about “yourself,” you obviously have to be as personal and warm as possible in your write-up.

Being personal does not mean you have to share your deepest secrets with your reader just to grab their attention and keep them intrigued while reading.

What it means is that you need to present your story in such a way that it characterizes yourself and not anyone else.

The purpose of personal statements and essays about the self is actually for an organization or institution to get to know you as a person.

So, at the end of the day, you had better showcase your human side when writing these kinds of texts.

7. Mention relevant people

While it was mentioned early on that you have to avoid badmouthing others in your essay, it follows that you definitely can praise relevant people in your piece.

Mentioning how others have helped you get through the toughest times in your life bodes well because it shows your grateful side to your reader.

On top of that, it also shows that you are not self-centered and that you actually know how to appreciate others who have helped you along the way.

To do this, you can mention your family members, mentors, classmates, sports coaches, favorite writers, philosophers, and so on.

8. Proofread your work

Last but not least, you have to reread your work and make corrections, if necessary. It is best to do this a day or at least a couple of hours after you finish writing.

Essay writing is not just a five-finger exercise. It takes time to get done, and hence, you’ll get drained of your energy after doing it for hours.

This means that upon reaching your conclusion, you’ll probably not have the same amount of mental energy as much as you had when you started your introductory paragraph.

So, you may not be able to spot superfluous and ambiguous sentences as well as grammatical and typographical errors upon reaching the end of your essay.

Also, you have to remember that even the most seasoned writers are not immune to all kinds of writing errors that can be committed, hence proofreading is a whole different story.

If you can, it would actually be best to ask another person to proofread your essay and ask for feedback from that person.

Now that we’ve discussed the do’s and don’ts when writing a personal essay, let us now see how all these parts fit together.

Here’s an example essay for your reference:

Sample 1: A general essay about yourself 

Thinking I got it all figured out, a careless mistake changed my life forever. Back in early 2015, I was confronted with the most challenging problem I had to face – the consistent two red lines on the five pregnancy test tubes I bought for $5.99 at Walmart. “No. This can’t be true,” I thought to myself, so I scheduled a doctor’s appointment a couple of days later just to make sure. As expected, the doctor confirmed that I’ve been cooking a little bun in the oven for five weeks already. Devastated and still in shock, I headed back to my small apartment and blankly stared at the TV screen for hours not knowing how to react.

Fast forward to a couple of weeks later, when I finally had my bearings, I called my mom in Idaho, told her what happened, quit school, and decided to go back home. Mothers really know best, and this isn’t a myth at all. My mom accepted me and helped me get through all the physical, mental, and even social struggles I had back then, notwithstanding her own life problems at that time. Seven months later, I gave birth to the most wonderful purple-ish creature I have ever seen in my entire life – Everett.

My son Everett, who looks more like my mom than me, has taught me so many things I never knew I was capable of – from changing poopy diapers to becoming a moderately-celebrated one-woman band in my hometown, Nampa. Yes, Everett has also made me pursue the only thing I loved but never knew I was good at – music. My son is four years old now, and I’ve been steadily raising him up through being a freelance voice talent during the day and a local musician at night. With this set-up, I have been able to see my son grow day by day without missing a beat.

This entire experience has not only taught me how not to give up on life but also on myself. My mom, most especially, has also contributed a lot to why I decided to keep going despite everything. For that, I owe what I have become today to my beautiful son Everett and to my guiding light, my mom, Evelyn.

How to write an essay about yourself for a scholarship

Writing an essay for a scholarship program more or less shares the same structure as any kind of personal essay out there.

The difference, though, is that you will have to explain the purpose of your essay in the intro paragraph if you won’t be asked for a cover letter for it.

Writing a cover letter for an essay is also not just a cakewalk because it would also require time and effort to get done, just like any other writing piece.

Also, scholarships do not just land on one’s lap. It is something that we have to apply for and do some research about.

If you’re lucky enough and you have the right connections, someone might just be able to introduce scholarship programs to you.

When this happens, you had better prepare a thank you letter for a scholarship that you can give to your scholarship grantor.

So, how exactly should you write an essay about yourself for a scholarship program? Let’s try to find out below.

Writing an essay about yourself for a scholarship

• Write your intent
• Build the hook
• Describe your experience in detail

Provide a climactic event

• Reconcile and offer value

1. Write your intent

If a cover letter for your essay is not necessarily asked by the institution or organization you are applying for, it would be best to explain your purpose at the beginning.

This part is important because it is what tells your reader why he or she is holding a piece of paper or staring at his or her screen.

Remember that not all people are good readers, which means not everyone will immediately understand what you are trying to convey.

So, be clear with your purpose or intent in the first paragraph. Clearly, you should also formally introduce yourself in this part.

2. Build the hook

The hook comes after the intent – at least in a scholarship essay that does not necessarily require a cover letter.

The hook is what captures your audience’s attention, so this part is nothing less than crucial too. Think of the hook as something that would tell your audience “Hey, I’m worth reading.”

You can use a rhetorical question or statement here. Or, you can also use a relevant quote or a life lesson that you had learned based on the story you’re writing.

In the example essay a few sections later, you will see that the hook uses a jump-in strategy where it immediately tells you why the essay is more or less worth reading.

3. Describe your experience in detail

As the hook is designed to capture your audience’s attention, they would be asking “why” you wrote it in the back of their minds.

So, the next paragraph should be where your story starts so your reader can build a connection to your hook. 

You can start with the day your story happened or a little before that. You may also want to use visual representations like describing your story’s setting.

The very point of this paragraph is to bring your reader to the day that your story happened. This is done to make them walk through your life or whatever story you are telling.

Like in books and movies, you can also add a climax to your essay. The climax is known to be the highest point or peak of your story.

Here, you might want to be as detailed as possible so that your audience would also feel the tension that you are building.

The use of appropriate descriptive words is simply the key to making this happen. So, write your climax in such a way that your reader will be holding his breath while reading.

4. Reconcile and offer value

After the climax comes the reconciliation part. Here, you would want to write about the most important lesson you have learned from your experience.

This can also serve as the conclusion already. In this part, you will explain how your experience molded you to become better.

You can also mention relevant people in this paragraph, and explain who they are and how they helped you somehow get through life.

To see how all these parts fit together, here’s an example essay for a scholarship application:

Sample 2: Essay for a scholarship application

As the ginormous wave came toward me, I felt so thrilled waiting to ride and tame it with my five-year-old surfboard. Little did I know that another ginormous rock was also waiting underneath the waters to change my perspective on life forever.

I have already been surfing for a decent amount of time because I grew up around Laguna Beach, Orange County. So, I thought to myself “This is just going to be another awesome ride.” As the giant wave neared, I patiently paddled toward it and prepared to stand. Four seconds in, I was doing really well, so I gave myself a silent “good job” praise. A few moments later, I suddenly got off-balance and ended up getting rag-dolled by the apparently not-so-harmless wave.

“Stay out of the washing machine,” I suddenly heard my brother’s voice in my head. That was the very first lesson I had to learn the easy way back when I was younger. That wasn’t my first time getting wiped out either, so I was confident I could just survive the first wave. Thinking I got it all under control, I rose to the surface only to see an even larger wave about to crash. It was too late. I had been annihilated by nature once again. But this time, a sharp edged-rock hit the back of my head and caused me to faint and drown. Luckily, another surfer saw what happened and immediately helped me get back to the shore.

Because of the incident, I was hospitalized for a month, and my parents thought I wouldn’t make it. At that time, it would be fitting to say that I hit rock bottom, literally. Had Dylan, my savior, chosen another surfing spot, I would have not been able to write this essay at all. I owe my life to him, to my family, and to the doctors who decided not to give up on me at the end of the day. For the record, the day I had my surfing accident was the same day I decided to quit school because I had mindlessly thought it wouldn’t do me any good. So, when I recovered, I firmly told myself I would do everything not to mess up ever again, especially when education is at stake.

This particular near-death experience of mine has taught me to value the gift of life. Most of all, this has taught me that education is way more important than what I thought I would only be good at — surfing. If I will be given a chance to secure a slot in your scholarship program, rest assured I will make the most out of it to make Dylan and my whole family proud, to say the least.

How to write an essay about yourself for a job application

Meanwhile, job application essays about the self may take just a slightly different approach from that of a scholarship and general one.

An essay about yourself intended for a job application is also known as a cover letter in business correspondence.

You may want to check out our guidelines on how to write a cover letter for an event manager job as a reference or sample.

At other times, essays about the self may also be called a personal statement, such as when applying for teaching-related positions.

Although encompassing a similar intent, a cover letter is different from a personal statement in terms of creativity and level of formality.

When writing an essay about yourself for a job application, the main goal is to “sell” yourself to your potential employer.

It follows that you need to highlight relevant skills and experiences that would tell your reader exactly why you can be a good fit for the role you are applying for.

So, how can we do that? Let’s find out in the next section.

Writing an essay about yourself for a job application

• Introduce yourself formally
• Show why you are a good candidate
• Summarize how you can be an asset

1. Introduce yourself formally

Like in the essay for a scholarship program, the default strategy is to formally introduce yourself to your reader and explain your writing purpose.

This allows your reader to get the hang of why your essay is being laid out in front of them. Put simply, this part should quickly explain the rest of the information that goes right below the intro.

Ideally, two to four sentences should suffice in creating the introduction part of your job application essay.

2. Show why you are a good candidate

“Show” and do not “tell” why you are a good candidate in the body of your essay – this is the golden rule when writing it for a job application.

As you may know, the body comes after the intro. In a five-paragraph essay, the body is composed of paragraphs two, three, and four.

In a three-paragraph essay, which is the structure in the example below, your body is made up only of paragraph number two.

In the example, you will see how the body aims to elaborate on how the applicant got influenced by external factors in applying for the role.

On top of that, you will also see in the body the applicant’s genuine motivation in seeking a particular job. Being as genuine as possible is highly suggested when writing this kind of essay.

3. Summarize how you can be an asset

Lastly, you can summarize your message into three to five sentences. You can do this by focusing on the most important areas that the job may entail.

Do not sell too much on the idea that you are the best among the other applicants because that’s something you should do during the interview.

Instead, the goal you should have in mind when writing this part is, in fact, to prompt the reader to schedule you for an interview.

This means that having a call-to-action prompt towards or at the end of your last paragraph is also highly suggested.

Sample 3: Essay for a job application

Apart from my educational and professional experience as a virtual sourcing associate last year, my interest in this particular role has been mainly influenced by my elder sister. She has been working from the comfort of her apartment for three years now. Before that, she used to live with us in my parents’ house. That particular role actually gave her enough resources to move out and start a life of her own — something I would also want for myself. She used to live with us back when I was still in college, so I had the chance to help her with some tasks from time to time.

This situation gave me an initial exposure to a remote employment setup. Remote employment is the kind of setup I am strongly vying for because of the freedom it offers. Clearly enough, a remote employment setup is not for everyone because it also has its own can of worms. To succeed in this, one must have effective time-management, communication, and organizational skills. However, as I have been exposed to this early on, and I am undoubtedly interested in it too, I believe I can be a good fit for the position you are looking for. I would be glad to share more about what I can offer to your organization in an interview.

How to write an essay about yourself for a job interview

Applying for a role in an organization is one thing, whereas securing an interview from your target organization is another.

If a person or organization wants you to write an essay about yourself before an interview, it means that they want to save time and effort.

Therefore, taking your best shot in the essay writing part is highly advised as this would also allow you to pitch yourself more.

In this kind of intent, you need to elaborate more on your personal side so as to give your interviewer an idea of who you are as a person on top of being a professional.

Writing an essay about yourself for a job interview

• Jump to the hook
• Build the tension
• Explain what you have done 
• Mention a relevant person
• Show excitement toward the interview
• Thank your interviewer for the invitation

1. Jump to the hook

As you are writing an essay about yourself for a job interview, it means that you need not necessarily introduce yourself anymore.

In other words, your interviewer wouldn’t have scheduled you for an interview had he or she not known about your basic information.

So, quickly jump to the hook and grab your reader’s attention. Remember to stay honest and not overdo this part.

2. Build the tension

Tension-building through words is an art. Luckily enough, this idea should not be treated as only limited to movies and novels.

Here, you will explain a problem or challenge that you are most likely facing and convey it through your human side.

Bear in mind that life is not all roses and rainbows, so it’s fine to share some of your struggles in life as a person.

You can show your emotional side in the sincerest manner possible in this part and avoid a showing-off stance.

3. Explain what you have done

After building the tension, you may now start explaining what you have done to try to solve the problem or challenge you explained early on.

In the particular case of job interviews, it would be nice if you could tell a story of how you got to learn to apply for the role you’re vying for.

Perhaps, you can go a little bit deeper into the details of how or why you came across the job posting or how you had an idea about the job opening.

When doing this in an e-mail message, you may want to avoid saying “I came across your job posting” because of how “unintentional” it sounds. 

4. Mention a relevant person

This part is optional. But, if there’s a particular person that has introduced the job opening to you, it would be best to mention that person in this part.

This would demonstrate your good and grateful side to your reader, or perhaps, potential employer, which is definitely what you want to happen.

To do this, you can simply elaborate on how a relevant person helped you out by introducing the job vacancy or maybe even how a certain person encouraged you to take a leap of fate.

5. Show excitement toward the interview

Another proven and tested trick you can incorporate in your essay for a job interview is to show how excited you are for the interview itself.

Remember that your excitement should be directed towards the interview and not the job role yet as you are not yet officially hired.

Showing excitement and humility at the same time is a great recipe for landing your dream job or any other goal in life.

6. Thank your interviewer for the invitation

Finally, a brief paragraph dedicated to thanking your interviewer for setting up an appointment with you should also do the trick.

If you are able to appreciate another person’s role in introducing a job opening to you, you should also not forget to thank your interviewer for taking a chance on you.

So, the conclusion of your essay should bear a grateful and excited tone but already dedicated to the interviewer.

You can see how all these tips and parts fit and flow together in the essay below:

Sample 4: Essay for a job interview

But, I didn’t want to just look for any job – as I have always wanted to become a writer. I also knew right from the start that going back to my parents’ house is never an option, no matter what. So, finding the right balance between what I really wanted to do and what I actually needed to do at that time was one of the hardest decisions I had to make.

With a bit of luck and a lot of desperation, I decided to draft an application for an entry-level writer/researcher role in a start-up media company in New York City. Earlier that night, I bumped into a long-lost friend from Ohio who was the main reason for how and why I got the role I applied for.

My friend Lillia, a single mother of two lovely kids, happened to just move to an apartment located beside XYZ 86.09 – a local radio station. “I’ve read they’re looking for a new research staff or something like that at the station because the last one just quit last week. You should give it a try” – these were more or less the exact words that she said that night.

So, when I got home, I did some research about the radio station, did more about the position, wrote a cover letter together with a resume, and submitted the application online. When I woke up the next morning, an interview invitation was already sitting in my inbox. At that exact moment, all I ever wanted was to do my best in the interview so I could land the job I always knew I’m good at. Interestingly enough, willpower and luck should somehow go together to make things happen.

So, I sincerely thank you for inviting me to an interview at your station this Friday, Miss Levine. I would be more than happy to share and know more about what I can do to contribute to your company through the role I am applying for.

How to write an essay about yourself from a third-person perspective

Writing from a third-person point of view simply requires the use of third-person pronouns. That said, doing so means avoiding the use of first and second-person pronouns.

Third-person pronouns include everything else except “you,” “we,” and “I.” So, these pronouns are made up of “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they.”

Writing in the third-person perspective in academic writing allows the objective and neutral flow of ideas. 

In creative writing, third-person narration allows you to present yourself as a character in your own story. This is good because it makes your ideas less biased and more convincing.

In connection with this, the question of whether we should write a resume from a first-person perspective is asked by quite a lot of people.

The rule of thumb when writing formal texts such as resumes is to religiously avoid the use of “I’s.” Instead, pronouns must be dropped to make the information more factual.

So, how exactly can we write an essay from a third-person point of view? Is that even possible? Let’s check that out below.

Writing an essay about yourself from a third-person perspective

• Think of yourself as a book or movie character
• Steer clear of “I,” “we,” and “you”
• Stick with “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they”

1. Think of yourself as a book or movie character

The first thing to do is to simply think of yourself as a character, probably the protagonist, in a movie or book that you want to write about.

This means that you need to think of yourself as someone else while recalling your own story. Doing this is naturally tricky as you have to distance yourself from, well, yourself.

However, in the example later, you will see how and why writing an essay about yourself in a third-person perspective makes the story more interesting and less opinionated.

2. Steer clear of “I,” “we,” and “you”

The next thing to do is to avoid using the personal pronouns “I,” “we,” and “you.” While “I” and “we” are both in the first person, “you” is used in the second person.

Remember this rule, and you’ll come up with an interesting essay or even a short story about yourself. You may even want to consider becoming a novel writer in the future after doing it.

3. Stick with “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they”

Last but not least, to come up with a nicely-written essay about yourself in third-person POV, remember to only stick with the pronouns “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they” while drafting.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you cannot use other types of pronouns such as object pronouns, possessive pronouns, and reflexive pronouns that are also in the third person.

You have to treat “he,” “she,” “it,” and “they” as your default reference pronouns only no matter what kind of story angle you want to build on.

To make things clearer, here’s an example essay about the self but written in a third-person point of view:

Sample 5: Essay from a third-person perspective

Fast forward to the present, Joe is now a licensed architect in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, Maryland. He built a start-up firm from scratch. Today, this very architectural firm, whose mission is to create and design spaces that are both sustainable and environment-friendly, already has around forty employees. This goes to show that, at least, he managed to quadruple the number of years he spent at school with his current company size.

If you ask him today what made him decide to root for his own success, he could go for hours. If you asked the same question a decade ago, he would just laugh and tell you to talk to another person instead. According to his staff, they could never, ever believe he used to be the black sheep of the family. That exact reaction is what keeps him going these days. It makes him feel like he is on the right path, and for that, he can’t thank all the people he works with enough.

He is also grateful for his parents, especially his mom, who did not give up on him before. Of course, he wouldn’t be able to get to where he is right now without the guidance of his mentors and professors at school. Joe hopes that his story, though not the most ideal, could somehow help those students who are still trying to be the best versions of themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions on “How to Write an Essay About Yourself”

How can i start an essay about myself.

To start writing the first paragraph of an essay about yourself, you can make use of either a formal introduction plus the intent. Or, you can start directly with a hook in the form of rhetorical statements or questions, quotes, or personal life lessons.

How can end an essay about myself?

To end an essay about yourself, you have to reconcile the ideas that you previously introduced. This means you have to summarize the points you presented and write a realization about those. You can make this part more powerful by focusing on other people’s contributions to your improvement rather than talking more about how you did things alone.

What topics can be written in an essay about myself?

Near-death experiences, general life struggles, education, mentorship, ambitions, and weaknesses are some of the most popular topics that can be used when writing an essay about the self.

Hey fellow Linguaholics! It’s me, Marcel. I am the proud owner of linguaholic.com. Languages have always been my passion and I have studied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics and Sinology at the University of Zurich. It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general.

Related posts:

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• How to Write a Cover Letter for an Essay in 13 Steps
• How to Write an Advocacy Letter — The Ultimate Guide
• Comma after “by the way” — The Ultimate Guide
• “Where” vs. “Were” — The Ultimate Guide
• How to Write a Thank You Letter for a Scholarship — Examples
• Comma after ‘then’: The Ultimate Guide
• Cover Letter for Waitress With No Experience: Ultimate Guide
• Comma before “etc.” — The Ultimate Guide
• Comma before “such as”: The Ultimate Guide

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Asking these questions at the end of an interview could cost you the job

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You’ve nailed your job interview, pulling out relevant examples of your experience and selling yourself as the perfect employee.

But things still could go downhill.

Alongside a first impression , the lasting impression you leave your interviewers with can make or break your chances – and in many scenarios, this is when the floor is opened for the candidate to ask questions of their own.

You may think it wise to Google what to ask in an interview, but boilerplate queries can show disinterest.

Additionally, coming across as too assertive or blunt can signal you’re not the right fit for the company; just cast your mind back to the many former contestants on The Apprentice whose arrogance got them fired before the final for proof of that.

Here, Careers and Education Expert, Robbie Bryant from  Open Study College , reveals the top questions to steer clear of at the end of an interview, as well as some more unique phrases to wow with instead. 

‘What are you looking for in a candidate?/How can I impress you?’

‘This can typically be found in the job listing or on the company website and asking the question has become extremely common,’ says Robbie.

Interviewers will likely have spoken to multiple candidates, so they’ve heard the familiar go-to questions time and time again.

To stand out from the crowd, Robbie advises: ‘Pull something specific from the list of responsibilities and centre a question around this. For example, “One of the responsibilities listed was building relationships with key stakeholders, would you say that this was the most important aspect of the role and something I should be particularly focused on?”‘

The answer will ultimately be the same, but your phrasings shows you’re serious about the role.

‘Can I work from home?’

Although the corporate world has changed dramatically since the pandemic, asking this question could limit your chances of success by suggesting you’re unhappy with office work.

If flexible, home or hybrid working haven’t been explicitly stated by the company and are a must for you , the job simply may not be the right fit. There are ways you can feel out the topic without explicitly bringing it up, though.

‘It’s all about the way a question is phrased!’ says Robbie. ‘Instead, ask more generally about the weekly schedule, work socials and office life.’

‘What can your company offer me?’

This is a no-no due to the tone of the question, which implies you’re either a demanding person to work with or haven’t researched the role.

‘Of course as a potential employee you will be curious about any employee benefits,’ explains Robbie.

‘But to uncover this information, if it’s not available online, I would say “Which company policies are you most proud of?”.

‘This will give you a good sense of the type of benefits on offer while still seeming genuinely interested.’

Plus, it gives the interviewers the chance to show off a little – and who doesn’t love to emphasise their positives?

‘Is the salary negotiable?’

Salary questions are often necessary , but hold your horses on asking them at interview.

Robbie explains: ‘I would recommend completing the interview first, then sending a follow-up email to thank the interview for their time and asking what the next steps are.

‘There can often be several interviews before an offer and if you are a desirable candidate it’s best to wait until a later stage , when the company has really bought into you, to start negotiations. Timing is key.’

‘Why should I work for you?’

‘You want to find a great match as an interviewee, but remember that ultimately you are being interviewed, not the other way around,’ says Robbie.

If you’ve applied for the position, you presumably want to work there, so it can make things awkward if you’re essentially looking for the job to be pitched back to you.

Instead, perhaps consider asking ‘What do your employees love most about working here?’ or be more specific and ask about factors that drew you to the role like company culture.

Robbie's ultimate tip for interview questions

‘Don’t over-prepare a set list of questions that you think will impress the interviewer,’ he says.

‘The best tactic is to really listen and be engaging during the interview, then ask follow up questions based on the conversation.’

‘What time will I finish every day?’

Your goal in an interview is to come across as an enthusiastic and committed team player, something that’s particularly important in the early stages.

But as Robbie says, ‘wanting to know what time you will be home everyday shows a lack of interest.’

If you want to know about the work life balance, subtlety is vital so you don’t look like a clock-watcher.

Robbie recommends a similar tactic to the above, asking what the company’s employees would say is the best part of working there.

‘The answers will help to paint a good picture of the work environment,’ he adds.

Phrases like ‘work hard, play hard’, ‘fast-paced environment’, ‘we’re like a family’, or ‘must handle stress well’ could be red flags if you’re worried about burnout , but it all depends on the context of your industry and what you’re looking for.

Yet even if you end up deciding it’s not the place for you, don’t discount yourself with poorly-worded questions.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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Who makes the cut: a ceo’s advice for nailing the job interview.

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CEO, Atlas Surgical Group , one of the largest ASC groups in U.S. Author of "Success in Amb. Surgery Ctrs" and "The Healthcare Entrepreneur."

Confucius wrote , "When we see men of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves."

In the competitive arena of job interviews, standing out can be as daunting as it is crucial. As a CEO, I've seen countless candidates walk through my company's doors. But what separates the memorable from the mundane?

It's not always about having the perfect set of skills; sometimes, it's about how you present those skills and yourself. I have seen countless candidates leave fully confident that they nailed the position, and yet they had lost us halfway through the meeting. Dressing well, being respectful and smiling are obvious prerequisites to interview success. But there is a whole extra set of points and rules one needs to know and abide by if you want to bag that position.

Here's my advice on how to make a lasting impression and nail that job interview.

Why You Should Stop Sending Texts From Your iMessage App

Apple ipad pro 2024 release date latest news on when it will launch, paris 2024 olympics morocco miss out on historic qualification zambia qualifies, understand the company.

First and foremost, do your homework. A candidate who shows up with a deep understanding of the company's history, culture and current challenges instantly grabs my attention. This preparation goes beyond skimming the website or reading recent news articles. Dive into the company's annual reports, understand its market position and be ready to discuss its future trajectory.

Showcase Your Unique Value

What makes you, specifically, the right fit for this role? Tailor your experiences to align with the job description. Highlighting how your unique background or skill set can solve the company's specific problems shows that you're not just looking for any job—you're looking for this job.

Problem-Solving Mindset

Companies are always looking for problem-solvers. Come prepared with examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. Better yet, identify a problem the company is facing and offer a potential solution. This approach demonstrates initiative and forward-thinking, qualities that are invaluable in any role.

Communicate Effectively

Clear and concise communication is key. Whether it's explaining complex ideas in simple terms or being articulate about your past roles, the way you communicate tells me a lot about how you'll fit into the team. Active listening is equally important. Engage with the interviewer, ask insightful questions and show that you're fully present in the conversation.

Embrace Your Failures

No career is free of setbacks. How you handle failure is often more telling than how you handle success. Be open about your failures and, more importantly, share what you learned from them. This honesty shows maturity and a growth mindset.

Cultural Fit

Technical skills can be taught, but cultural fit is harder to nurture. Demonstrate that you share the company's values and vision. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive work environment in the past or how you align with the company's ethos.

Be Yourself

It might sound cliché, but authenticity goes a long way. We can often sense when someone is putting on a façade, and this raises red flags. Be genuine in your responses, and let your personality shine through. After all, we're hiring a person, not just a set of skills.

Post-interview, consider sending a thank-you note. This simple gesture can set you apart and show your appreciation for the opportunity. Be sure to reiterate your interest in the role and the company.

Overall, nailing a job interview is about more than just showing up with the right qualifications. It's about demonstrating your understanding of the company, showcasing your unique value and communicating effectively.

What Not To Do

Now that I have outlined some best practices for interviewing, here are some things to avoid.

• Don’t look and act overconfident. Not everyone is looking to hire a rocket scientist unless, of course, you are applying at NASA. Eagerness and humility can take you a long way.

• Don’t interrupt. Not only is that rude, it is a sign of a self-centered and potentially narcissistic mind. Let the impression be that you are clinging to the wise words coming out of your potential supervisor's mouth. And you should be.

• Don’t slouch. Please, don’t slouch or recline. A casual posture may help you on your date, but in the world of business leadership, it can be seen as a sign of disrespect.

• Don’t complain about your last job. In my experience, this, more than anything, can be the death knell of a job interview. If you can’t show respect to my predecessor, what can I expect from you going forward?

Remember, it's not just about being the best on paper; it's about being the best fit for the team and the company's future. So, prepare thoroughly, be authentic and let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. That's how you make the cut.

I urge you to embark on the next chapter of your life, embodying the mindset of a triumphant leader. Remember, even the most revered leaders began their journey with a pivotal step: mastering that first interview. This is the cornerstone upon which your future is built. Excel in this and you can set the stage for your success.

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Google VP says this is the No. 1 question you should always ask at job interviews

In a job interview, there will come a time — usually in the last five minutes — when the tables are turned and the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions for me?" 

Asking smart, thoughtful questions can help you make a lasting impression on the hiring manager and figure out if the role you're interviewing for is the right fit for you.

There is one question, in particular, that you should "always" ask at the end of the interview, says Jenny Cheng , vice president and general manager of Google Wallet. 

"Is there anything else that you are looking for in this role that I haven't articulated yet?'" 

Cheng, who previously worked at Salesforce and PayPal, has interviewed dozens of candidates throughout her career. She recommends this question because it "gives you a clear opening to address any concerns or questions the interviewer has about your skills or experience that you haven't yet discussed." 

It gives you another chance to prove your value and set yourself apart from other candidates, too.

"Oftentimes, conversations can go so far down one path that you don't get to cover everything you thought you would, as the interviewer," says Cheng. "As candidates, we're so busy trying to stay on top of the questions in front of us that few people will leave the opening to ask, 'Is there anything else we haven't covered?'" 

But, Cheng adds, "There could always be something an interviewer is thinking you can't do or haven't done, even by the end of your conversation, and you might not even realize it's a priority."

Not only will the hiring manager appreciate the offer to share more about the role and ask follow-up questions about your capabilities, but it may also be a good chance to gauge how well you're doing. 

Most of the time, in their response, they will reveal something that you might not have even realized was important to them in hiring, Cheng explains. If the hiring manager asks you to clarify an earlier response or elaborate more on one of the skills on your resume, this is your chance for a re-do.

Or, "They might tell you, 'Your experience is really impressive, you're one of my top candidates,'" Cheng adds. "Either way, you will get valuable feedback on the spot."

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Google VP says this is the best way to build a 'happier, more successful' career

Use these 5 phrases to sound more emotionally intelligent at work

The smartest question to ask in a job interview, according to a CEO who's interviewed hundreds

Teachers Dread PD. Here’s How One School Leader Made It Engaging

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On most days, Courtney Walker, the assistant principal at Carrollton High School in Carrollton, Ga., doesn’t make it too far down her to-do list. That’s because she’s always adjusting the school’s master schedule to make room for new learning opportunities for students and teachers.

Walker joined the school in 2019 as an assistant principal for attendance and assessment, but quickly developed a “passion” for creating learning pathways for the 100 teachers in her school, which serves about 1,700 students.

“Educators are one of the largest group of stakeholders [in school], and they’re experts in what they do. They should have a voice in what kind of professional learning they receive,” Walker said in an interview with Education Week.

With her leadership team, which consists of her principal, other assistant principals, and the student dean, Walker has created five different personal learning pathways for teachers that guide their professional development for the year, in a structure that mirrors how high school students choose career pathways.

Teachers take a baseline assessment, choose an area of instruction they want to work on, and attend four sessions over a year to learn and practice their new skills. The pathways are run by expert teachers at the school, a model that favors peer learning over one-size-fits-all lectures by outside experts.

Many teachers dislike PD. Too much of it isn’t customized or relatable. In a nationally representative survey of over 1,400 teachers conducted in October 2023, EdWeek found that almost half of the respondents said the PD they are required to take is irrelevant and not connected to their most pressing needs. By contrast, 41 percent of the more than 650 school leaders surveyed as part of the same effort, said the PD they provided was “very relevant.”

There’s a middle ground here, and leaders like Walker are trying to build on it. Her efforts appear to have borne fruit. Teacher resignations and retirements at the school are back to pre-pandemic levels, after doubling in the 2021-22 school year. And while it’s notoriously hard to connect student learning directly to teacher PD, student outcomes on state assessments in subjects like American literature, U.S. history, and biology, have improved.

Walker’s efforts were recognized recently at a gathering of assistant principals from across the country, where she was named the National Assistant Principal of the Year. Here’s what Walker said about the connection between good PD and meeting a school’s goals.

The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What was your transition like from educator to administrator?

Working with kids is totally different from working with adults. I used to be an elementary school teacher. Adults approach professional learning very differently from students learning in a classroom. That was something I really had to work through. And in moving from the classroom setting to administration, I realized that I had to present [professional] learning that looks authentic to educators, and something that they are vested in.

With students, they’re easier in terms of implementing change, because they’re pretty open and excited. But a lot of the educators are veteran, and they’re a lot older than I am, and they’ve got a lot of expertise in their field. I wanted to respect that.

My job was to figure out how to help dial in their gifts and talents, and push them toward things they are passionate about. I don’t ever want to assume that I know what they need, because they know the needs of their students.

How did you include educator voices in your PD?

The professional learning pathways for our teachers are similar to the career pathways we’ve created for our students. Teachers self-identify areas for growth, and they attend professional learning that directly addresses their need. We wanted teachers to lead this learning.

So, we gave them a structure of five pathways of learning, which were linked to our teacher-evaluation standards and district initiatives.

[A pathway could read something like: “increasing student ownership over learning through self-assessments,” according to a presentation Walker shared.]

All teachers took a needs-based assessment at the beginning of the process, and within two years, were able to attend a training that was their first or second choice.

A teacher stays with a pathway all year long, but the difference is that you’re meeting in small groups of four or five, instead of a big 40-person training. In a meeting, teachers from different disciplines learn strategies, roll them out, and then report back on how they’re working.

What about PD on specific subjects?

In parallel to the schoolwide learning pathways, we also have common course teams that meet every week. They look at student data within their subject, what instructional strategies were adopted, and drill down to what each individual student needs.

It’s running both ways, right? You have teachers of the same content working together. And then you’re looking much more broadly, across the building and across curriculums, about strategies that are beneficial.

The third area of work are “data digs” we do three times a year to zoom out and check if we’re making progress toward our school’s goals.

Teachers have a lot on their plates. How do you encourage them if their interest in the PD is flagging?

I give teachers time throughout the school year to reflect on which of their practices are working. It’s important to prompt or coach them in that reflection process. Making time for this is important, so we have a 90-minute planning block for these pathway meetings four times a year.

We observe their classroom for strategies that they discussed with peers in their pathway session. If they’re supposed to use self-assessments and checklists in the classroom, then we’re looking for that. It’s an opportunity to give feedback and say, hey, I noticed that you had students self-assess on this skill and I think it went well. That connection between teacher reflection and administrator feedback is critical. It’s also an opportunity to push them when they need to see things from a different perspective.

One of the things that our teachers asked for this year was to implement peer observations. They wanted to watch another teacher in action. One of our math teachers watched an AP Environmental Science class to observe how questions were being framed and asked.

What is the role you played specifically in making this happen?

When we started to do PD this way, we needed to have a structure in place to be able to support this. I created the framework, our five pathways [of learning], analysis protocols for our teams, which meant making agendas, meeting minutes, and assigning roles in the teams. And then I’ve worked very closely with all the team leaders to support them. I do monthly touch points to make sure it’s being rolled out. But teachers are the ones driving the training.

Do you miss teaching?

Oh yeah! This year, some of our English teachers let me teach some lessons in their classrooms. There’s nothing quite like it.

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The physical sensations of watching a total solar eclipse

Regina G. Barber

Science writer David Baron witnesses his first total solar eclipse in Aruba, 1998. He says seeing one is "like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world." Paul Myers hide caption

Science writer David Baron witnesses his first total solar eclipse in Aruba, 1998. He says seeing one is "like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

David Baron can pinpoint the first time he got addicted to chasing total solar eclipses, when the moon completely covers up the sun. It was 1998 and he was on the Caribbean island of Aruba. "It changed my life. It was the most spectacular thing I'd ever seen," he says.

Baron, author of the 2017 book American Eclipse: A Nation's Epic Race to Catch the Shadow of the Moon and Win the Glory of the World , wants others to witness its majesty too. On April 8, millions of people across North America will get that chance — a total solar eclipse will appear in the sky. Baron promises it will be a surreal, otherworldly experience. "It's like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

Baron, who is a former NPR science reporter, talks to Life Kit about what to expect when viewing a total solar eclipse, including the sensations you may feel and the strange lighting effects in the sky. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Baron views the beginning of a solar eclipse with friends in Western Australia in 2023. Baron says getting to see the solar corona during a total eclipse is "the most dazzling sight in the heavens." Photographs by David Baron; Bronson Arcuri, Kara Frame, CJ Riculan/NPR; Collage by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Baron views the beginning of a solar eclipse with friends in Western Australia in 2023. Baron says getting to see the solar corona during a total eclipse is "the most dazzling sight in the heavens."

What does it feel like to experience a total solar eclipse — those few precious minutes when the moon completely covers up the sun?

It is beautiful and absolutely magnificent. It comes on all of a sudden. As soon as the moon blocks the last rays of the sun, you're plunged into this weird twilight in the middle of the day. You look up and the blue sky has been torn away. On any given day, the blue sky overhead acts as a screen that keeps us from seeing what's in space. And suddenly that's gone. So you can look into the middle of the solar system and see the sun and the planets together.

Can you tell me about the sounds and the emotions you're feeling?

A total solar eclipse is so much more than something you just see with your eyes. It's something you experience with your whole body. [With the drop in sunlight], birds will be going crazy. Crickets may be chirping. If you're around other people, they're going to be screaming and crying [with all their emotions from seeing the eclipse]. The air temperature drops because the sunlight suddenly turns off. And you're immersed in the moon's shadow. It doesn't feel real.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

In your 2017 Ted Talk , you said you felt like your eyesight was failing in the moments before totality. Can you go into that a little more?

The lighting effects are very weird. Before you get to the total eclipse, you have a progressive partial eclipse as the moon slowly covers the sun. So over the course of an hour [or so], the sunlight will be very slowly dimming. It's as if you're in a room in a house and someone is very slowly turning down the dimmer switch. For most of that time your eyes are adjusting and you don't notice it. But then there's a point at which the light's getting so dim that your eyes can't adjust, and weird things happen. Your eyes are less able to see color. It's as if the landscape is losing its color. Also there's an effect where the shadows get very strange.

Crescent-shaped shadows cast by the solar eclipse before it reaches totality appear on a board at an eclipse-viewing event in Antelope, Ore., 2017. Kara Frame and CJ Riculan/NPR hide caption

You see these crescents on the ground.

There are two things that happen. One is if you look under a tree, the spaces between leaves or branches will act as pinhole projectors. So you'll see tiny little crescents everywhere. But there's another effect. As the sun goes from this big orb in the sky to something much smaller, shadows grow sharper. As you're nearing the total eclipse, if you have the sun behind you and you look at your shadow on the ground, you might see individual hairs on your head. It's just very odd.

Some people might say that seeing the partial eclipse is just as good. They don't need to go to the path of totality.

A partial solar eclipse is a very interesting experience. If you're in an area where you see a deep partial eclipse, the sun will become a crescent like the moon. You can only look at it with eye protection. Don't look at it with the naked eye . The light can get eerie. It's fun, but it is not a thousandth as good as a total eclipse.

A total eclipse is a fundamentally different experience, because it's only when the moon completely blocks the sun that you can actually take off the eclipse glasses and look with the naked eye at the sun.

And you will see a sun you've never seen before. That bright surface is gone. What you're actually looking at is the sun's outer atmosphere, the solar corona. It's the most dazzling sight in the heavens. It's this beautiful textured thing. It looks sort of like a wreath or a crown made out of tinsel or strands of silk. It shimmers in space. The shape is constantly changing. And you will only see that if you're in the path of the total eclipse.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

So looking at a partial eclipse is not the same?

It is not at all the same. Drive those few miles. Get into the path of totality.

This is really your chance to see a total eclipse. The next one isn't happening across the U.S. for another 20 years.

The next significant total solar eclipse in the United States won't be until 2045. That one will go from California to Florida and will cross my home state of Colorado. I've got it on my calendar.

The digital story was written by Malaka Gharib and edited by Sylvie Douglis and Meghan Keane. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

Correction April 3, 2024

In a previous audio version of this story, we made reference to an upcoming 2025 total solar eclipse. The solar eclipse in question will take place in 2045.

• Life Kit: Life Skills
• total eclipse
• solar eclipse