Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from reading your resume.
The interviewers would like to know what sets you apart from what is written on your resume. You are certainly not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your relationship status. Stick with a couple of interesting facts to show the interviewers that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate!
At the end of your response, remember to connect the factors you discuss and how they will ensure that you are a stellar choice for their open role.
"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last eight years to compete in various races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. I believe my competitive nature will benefit me in this role as I will show a consistent drive to deliver my best work every day."
"I moved here from Ukraine when I was 8, speaking only Russian, and learned English from my Palestinian neighbor who spoke zero Russian. How? I'm still not sure, but we were pals and hung out daily and somehow figured out how to communicate! This experience taught me a lot about the importance of eliminating preconceived notions of others based on their background. I believe this experience has helped me to embrace diversity and inclusion efforts in the workplace. I consider myself an ally to all and will bring this mentality to work every day, ensuring I uphold the inclusive culture this organization has worked hard to develop."
"I am bilingual in Spanish and have some proficiency in French and Italian, too. I also am a huge Harry Potter fan and could pretty much quote each book to you! Being bilingual and having a variety of interests will help me excel in this sales role as I can connect with a wide range of potential customers."
"I am a certified yoga instructor, and I spent three months after college traveling and doing yoga. I spent six weeks in Asia and another six weeks in Latin America, and it was a fantastic experience that helped me grow as both a yogi and a professional. For instance, I have grown in my acceptance of roadblocks. I have also developed a great deal of patience and mental fortitude, factors that will certainly benefit me in my career within the fast-paced marketing industry."
"I currently run a meetup group in our city for ultimate frisbee! I have met many new friends this way and always encourage my team to participate when they can. By immersing myself in healthy competition, I have learned a lot about team building and collaboration in the workplace. As I grow these traits, I witness myself becoming a more skilled manager at the same time."
"I am a complete organization nerd, which you may have already gathered from our interview time together. I have created and designed customer personal planners that I sell on Etsy as digital downloads. My shop offers me a great side income and essentially runs itself. This organization and desire for order will help me succeed as an administrative professional since I pay attention to and fix details that most people may not even notice."
"I have not included the information on my resume; however, I put in volunteer efforts on weekends. I have a strong desire to give to my community, which is why I act as a volunteer coordinator for the women's shelter. As a teacher, this volunteer work has helped me to grow a greater sense of empathy for others while I also work to eliminate some existing bias that I was not aware that I held."
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
I am a coffee lover! I have traveled around Bali and Lombok solely to taste different coffee beans. I have tried Madagascar and Ethiopian coffee beans as well, but have discovered Toraja and Mandailing coffee are my favorites.
Lauren's Feedback
This is a great, unique factoid!
Anonymous Answer
I am a professional photographer specializing in musicians and concert photography. It's a highly specialized niche that I fell into. Like most photographers, it started as a hobby, and now I get paid by local and regional bands to photograph them while they're performing. What's your favorite band?
Rachelle's Feedback
YES! All the yesses! I like that you brought in this passion that is interesting, memorable and offers a lot of transitional skills valuable to the pharma industry. The question at the end is a nice touch.
Anonymous Answer
I meditate every morning. During my meditation, I focus on taking a step back from the specific workload of every day and seeing the big picture. On my meditation corner, there's a photo of my family to remind me of my roots, where I came from, and how far I have gone. I feel grateful for the tremendous everyday opportunities. I have often received positive feedback that " I am always positive and smiling."
Rachelle's Feedback
Excellent! A lot of companies and executives are beginning to embrace better the importance of mindfulness, which meditation delivers. Well done!
Anonymous Answer
I have two dogs, and I bake for the challenge of making the item look like the photo in a magazine.
Rachelle's Feedback
Fun! Your answer will give the interviewer a small glimpse into what you value in your personal life.
Anonymous Answer
Reading and writing are my favorite ways to relax. I read novels, poems, or proses. I love to experience different lives through reading. Also, I have been keeping a diary since I was in junior high school. I have filled seven diary books, and I intend to continue it.
Rachelle's Feedback
You sound so dedicated to writing, bettering yourself, and gaining knowledge. This is an excellent quality that any interviewer should appreciate. Fantastic response.
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