How would a coworker or a close friend describe you?

"I am mature beyond my years, which is a trait of which my coworkers and current supervisor often comment. I can see all sides of a story, and the wisdom to avoid jumping into a situation without gathering all of the required information first."

"I have made some solid friendships through my time in University, and I believe that my fellow marketing students and friends would describe me as inventive, productive, and inspired. I also take risks in my projects, but I make sure that they are well-researched and calculated risks."

"My best friend laughs at me often, because I am 'old-fashioned polite,' as she calls it. She thinks I came from an entirely different generation. I was raised to refer to my elders as Mr. and Mrs, and to always make eye contact, say thank you, and hold the door for strangers. I would also describe myself as thoughtful, and eager to help. I see all of these qualities as excellent characteristics to have when working in a customer-service oriented job."

"My current coworkers often comment on my level of confidence, and willingness to jump into a learning situation. I believe they would say that I am keen, a quick learner, and confident. I believe these to be excellent qualities for a sales professional to have."

"My friends know that I am outgoing, and always willing to speak to a crowd of people. While earning my degree, most students would dread oral presentations, but I would thrive on those types of assignments. I am also a creative problem-solver and willing to put in the extra effort needed to help someone succeed."

You may be carefree and fun-loving with your friends on the weekends, but at work, you are focused and professional. The interviewer is interested in your personality and how you will fit with the team.

As you prepare for this question, picture a few scenarios that have occurred in your current or previous position. Maybe you are encouraging and motivating to your coworkers when they are having a bad day. If you have proven yourself reliable and someone that people can depend on, be sure to mention that! Think about some of the qualities you enjoy in a coworker and share how you think you embody some of those qualities.

Here is a list of descriptive words for you to lean on:

- Ambitious
- Capable
- Eager
- Generous
- Intelligent
- Keen
- Mature
- Outgoing
- Quick-learner
- Self-assured
- Willing

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.