How to Answer: Tell me about yourself.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Airbnb job interview.
23. Tell me about yourself.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer needs to get to know who you are to ascertain how suited you are to their company and this role. It is just as important for them to ensure you'll be a good fit for their culture as it is that you'll get along with their teams. So try to find all the ways in which you feel you are like-minded. If you have a strong sense of their culture, and what it is like working with them, it will show in your answer.
"I've always believed that you design the culture you want, or it will be designed for you. I'm excited...unlock some amazing creativity and innovation, and make working here really fun." -Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky
Written by Kevin Downey on March 14th, 2024
What You Need to Know
One of Airbnb's core values is "Embrace the adventure. We're driven by curiosity, optimism, and the belief that every person can grow." They also make several statements on their career site which are specifically crafted to attract their ideal talent. The more these statements resonate with you, and the more attracted you are to working with them as a result, the better a match you'll seem. "We want to hire and retain the best people in the world (like you). If we limited our talent pool to a commuting radius around our offices, we would be at a significant disadvantage. The best people live everywhere, not concentrated in one area. And by recruiting from a diverse set of communities, we will become a more diverse company."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 14th, 2024
How to Answer
When answering this question, compose a brief bio or elevator speech to showcase how this position aligns with your professional experience and career goals. Personalize your answer and avoid reciting your resume. Be enthusiastic and showcase your passion for the field. Use this as an opportunity to highlight how you're aligned with the role and company, and why you applied for this specific job.
Structure your response using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide more details about an achievement. Keep it concise and engaging. Exhibit confidence by speaking clearly, making eye contact, and projecting a positive attitude.
Written by Kevin Downey on March 14th, 2024
Answer Example
"I've been working for Expedia for five years now, and while I love working there, and in the travel sector, since before I graduated from college I have wanted to work for Airbnb. Don't get me wrong, working with Expedia has been an incredible journey, and I have learned a lot about myself as a professional, and grown tremendously in my career. I've built some great relationships as a result as well. But starting in my teens, I frequently helped my parents with the property they hosted on Airbnb, and often I would hand the keys to our guests, or help them with any issues or needs. This continued in the summers on break in college as well. Anytime I dealt with the representatives at Airbnb, it was always such a great experience and nothing but positive. So, I just knew that was where I wanted to end up. So now, I feel I have further developed my skills and am grateful for you making the time for me with this interview."
Written by Kevin Downey on March 14th, 2024