Tell me about yourself.
The interviewer will often ask this question at the beginning of an interview to break the ice and get to know a little more about you than what is on your resume. When an interviewer asks an open-ended question like this, it can be challenging to know where to begin or end!
This question haunts many individuals who may accidentally go a little too in-depth into their personal lives. It happens. Keep your reply light and relevant to the job. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss the strengths and qualities you bring. Share how you became interested in this career path and what you enjoy about it.
"I am a motivated and hard-working individual. I have high moral standards and believe all people should be shown respect. I strive to go above and beyond what is expected of me, and I am good at building relationships. I have several years of experience as a correction officer, and I find the job challenging and rewarding. I believe in high expectations and following rules, but I am also personable and approachable. Outside of work, I enjoy playing outside with my two kids and attending all of their sporting events. As a family, we are active in the community and enjoy participating in opportunities to give back. I am excited about taking this next step in my career."
"I recently received my bachelor's degree in criminal justice and am ready to start my career as a correction officer. My parents and grandfather were in law enforcement, so it's in my blood. I am a very active individual who loves to work out and go to the mountains on the weekend. I feel that my physical activity level on my off time greatly improves my work during the week. I have a lot of energy to offer and am excited to have this opportunity to interview with you."
"I have worked in the prison system for the past ten years and am looking for a change. I am a calm and quiet leader with excellent communication skills. Even though I am quiet, I can motivate my team and keep morale high within the prison. On my days off, I enjoy going for long motorcycle rides with my wife and having barbecues at the beach."
Focus on keeping your answer brief and concise. The interviewer wants an idea of your personality and what you can bring to the team if hired. It is best to have your response created before your interview to stay on track while keeping your answer short and detailed.
Avoid talking about yourself for five minutes or longer. The interviewer does not need to know your life story; they only want to understand your personality and background.
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've worked the last six years for a security company, my responsibilities there shifted, I would be assigned to work psych units where I would watch patients that were of harm to themselves or behavioral issues, I would also patrol the hospital campus in a company vehicle and ensure the security of the compound. My most recent job at a state hospital, I am in the position of therapeutic safety officer. My responsibilities would be to actively monitor the environment and well being of all. Bring patients out to hospital trips/ court trips in a secure manner. And supervise patient while they were being visited by family members or friends.
Rachelle's Feedback
The bulk of your answer is very helpful to an interviewer. Try adding in a just a bit about your personal side such as characteristics, or volunteer work. I have provided a sample, below.
"I have worked in security for the past six years in tough assignments such as psych units with patients who want to harm themselves. In my most recent position, I am a therapeutic safety officer. My responsibilities include actively monitoring the environment and well being of the patients. I bring these patients to court and other out of hospital trips which requires a great deal of empathy while also remaining ready to take action in a split second. In my spare time, I keep active through martial arts and boxing which keep me fit both physically and mentally."
