Tell me about yourself.
Take a few minutes to tell the interviewer a few things about yourself that aren't on your resume or cover letter. Try to introduce something uncommonly interesting about yourself that will make you memorable when your interviewer is choosing between the candidates they've interviewed. Exhibit passion and enthusiasm, and try to be charismatic. You can begin with your recent education, volunteer work, or talk about your travels. Bring up anything that is interesting and highlights your ability to be a responsible, reliable, and bright individual.
"I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. It was the best experience I could have given myself; I learned so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US last month and have been actively looking for work for the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."
"With pleasure! I have over ten years of experience in the utility industry and am interested in growing my career to the next level. On a more personal note, I love to read, go hiking, and spend a lot of my extra time volunteering with the humane society."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Outside of work, I like to golf, I love plants (I have about 30 house plants) and I like to hike around the foothills where I live. I have 3 cats and one dog, and I adore them all.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome! These are all interesting personal tidbits that will help you stand out to the interviewer. If you can connect anything personal about yourself to the qualities that the interviewer is looking for in this role, don't hesitate to include this as well. It's always best to bring your answers back to how you are the best candidate to fill the role. (For example, you're a nurturer by nature which is apparent in how you take care of so many plants and animals. If this is something the role needs - someone who likes to take care of others and who nurtures relationships - make sure to point out this connection to the interviewer.)
