Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example
Community Answers

This question has the potential to trip applicants up because it is so open-ended. However, keep in mind that no one knows you better than you. This question is an opportunity to set the tone for the rest of the interview by giving a quick snapshot of who you are as an applicant.

Open-ended questions like this give you the chance to tell a story. When you talk about yourself, share information that the interviewer at Red Bull will find exciting and relevant to the position. Give a quick overview of your background and what has brought you here today without going into too much detail. Then consider sharing a skill you developed that will be useful for this position.

"Currently, I'm a product developer at (XYZ) Company but have been interested in making the transition to the food and beverage industry for the past two years because of my interest and experience in this area through a few projects I led. I have a bachelor's degree in economics and supply chain management. Outside of work, I'm passionate about cooking and running marathons."

"I graduated with a bachelor of arts degree with a major in communications and marketing from UBC in 2009. Since then, I have been actively making my way to a leadership role in social media marketing within the hotel and hospitality industry. I am an energetic and positive person, ready to make a difference on the (XYZ) team with Red Bull."

Anonymous Answer

"I'm a senior at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and am studying psychology and business. I'm eager to begin my career in sales to develop my skills as I believe the skills learned in sales to be very transferrable and I want to do it with a company that I know is willing to invest in me as much as I am willing to invest in it which is why I really want to work for Red Bull. And I really enjoy lots of the things Red Bull is involved in like sports, travel, adventure which is another reason why I'd be a great fit with Red Bull."

Kevin's Feedback

You're using what could be a strictly personal answer to "sell" your candidacy. This isn't a bad approach, informing them what motivated you to apply for this position. But, be sure to tell the interviewer a bit about you, as well. The question is probing whether your personality and personal makeup will fit in with their team, and what makes you someone they'd like to work with.

"“I’m a senior at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and am studying psychology and business. I’m hoping to apply for these courses towards a career in sales. I believe having a firm grasp of psychology and business is necessary to more deeply understand people’s wants and needs. I’d want to apply these skills in a supportive work environment with a company that I know will invest in me as much as I will invest in my teams. I really enjoy lots of the things Red Bull is involved in, like sports, travel, adventure, which is another reason I’d be a great fit with Red Bull. It’s also part of why I choose my university. Boulder, CO is surrounded by nature, and mountains and trails. So many outdoor sports and activities to take advantage of. I am an outdoor enthusiast to the core. Mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, mountain climbing... you name it!"