How to Authentically Answer "Tell Us About Who You Are" in an Interview
I was listening to one of my favorite career podcasts earlier this week; the topic was interviews. Specifically, the almost inevitable "Tell us about who you are" question. At first glance, it seems simple enough, but it can cause a mental scramble. I've personally stumbled over answering this question. Being asked to describe myself erased everything I knew about my experiences, values, and passions. Recruiters may have a different opinion, but as I listened to this podcast episode, I remembered just how important authenticity is. And not just authenticity, but preparation too - knowing which elements of your journey will be the most meaningful for the opportunity you're applying for.
Answering this question authentically and effectively requires introspection, self-awareness, and strategic presentation. So here are my tips for how you can tell your story with confidence:
1. Reflect On Your Journey
Before heading into an interview, it's essential to take a moment and reflect on your personal and professional journey. This reflection will help you gain clarity and confidence, allowing you to present yourself in the best possible way. Consider these points:
- Key experiences that shaped your perspective or work ethic.
- Challenges you've faced and how they've influenced your growth. Sharing stories of how you tackled obstacles will showcase your resilience and problem-solving skills to potential employers.
- Think about the achievements you've had throughout your career. These could be awards, successful projects, promotions, or any other milestones that demonstrate your skills and dedication.
2. Stay Relevant
While it's tempting to delve deep into personal stories, it is important to remember that during an interview, the primary focus is understanding how you fit into the specific role and company culture. Sharing personal anecdotes can help establish a connection with the interviewer, but it is crucial to keep the conversation relevant and targeted.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance to showcase who you are while emphasizing your relevant skills, aligning them with the company's expectations, and maintaining professionalism.
3. Be Yourself and Showcase Your Values
Sounds cliché, but it's crucial. Your values can give interviewers a glimpse into your character and predict your future behavior. Remember, interviewers are not only looking for someone with the necessary skills and experience; they also want to find someone whose values align with the organization's mission and vision. Sharing your values authentically and passionately can help create a connection between you and the interviewer, ultimately increasing your chances of landing the job.
- Speak about experiences that highlight your core values.
- Example: If teamwork is important to you, share an anecdote of a time when collaboration led to success.
4. Keep It Concise
While authenticity is key, so is brevity. Aim for a response that lasts 1-2 minutes.
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your anecdotes clearly.
- Practice your response so you're comfortable, not rehearsed.
- Genuine enthusiasm and sincerity can't be faked.
5. Express Your Passion
In a world where so much content is manufactured and artificial, to speak about what you genuinely love is a breath of fresh air. It is a testament to your individuality, uniqueness, and unwavering commitment to yourself. So, embrace your passions, let your authenticity shine through, and share the things you genuinely love with the world. Your voice matters, and your genuine love for a subject has the power to inspire, enlighten, and touch the hearts and minds of others.
- Discuss projects or roles that energized you.
- Share hobbies or personal endeavors that align with the job role or company culture.
6. Anticipate Follow-Up Questions
Sometimes, a story or detail you mention may intrigue the interviewer. Be ready to delve deeper if prompted. This also means being truthful in your initial answer to avoid getting caught off-guard.
7. End with Your Present and Future
After discussing your past and values, conclude by discussing:
- Your interest in the role and company.
- Where you see yourself going, especially in the context of this potential new role.
Answering "Tell us about who you are" isn't about giving the "right" answer; it's about providing an honest glimpse into your personal and professional evolution. You can present an authentic and impactful narrative by understanding yourself, aligning with the role and company, and practicing your delivery. Remember, at the heart of this question is an invitation to connect - take it as an opportunity to showcase the unique combination of experiences and values that make you, you.
Cheers to knowing who you are and confidently sharing your story to create the life and career you want!