How to answer tell me about yourself in an interview

In almost any job interview, Tell me about yourself will be the first question asked. How you respond is crucial, as it can set the tone for the rest of the interview. Ultimately, it can make or break your chances of securing your dream role.

Therefore, preparation is key.

Many jobseekers struggle with this question because it’s open-ended and can feel vague. However, with the right strategy, it’s also a valuable opportunity to make a positive first impression and guide the direction of the entire interview. So, why do interviewers ask this question — and how can you best respond?

Why do interviewers ask it?

Interviewers ask this question to assess your interpersonal and communication skills at work, as well as how confidently you can speak about your experience. They also use it to gauge your motivation — why you are interested in the role, and what attracted you to their organisation in particular.

This question helps employers understand whether you have researched the company, whether your goals align with theirs and how well you might fit into the team. In many ways, it acts as an early indicator of your overall suitability for the role.

How to answer

Answering this question effectively is all about preparation. Before your interview, take time to carefully review the job description and identify the key skills and qualities the employer is looking for. Then, reflect on your own experience and note where you have demonstrated these skills in real situations.

It’s often more effective to focus on one or two strengths that you can support with clear, specific examples, rather than listing a long series of generic skills. Showing how you applied these skills — and the results you achieved — will help you sound confident and credible.

Use this question as an opportunity to highlight your most relevant experience, transferable skills and key achievements. Remember, your response not only shapes the interviewer’s first impression of you, but can also influence the direction of the rest of the interview

Mistakes to avoid

Sharing your entire employment history

Your answer to this question shouldn’t be a summary of your resume word for word. Instead, focus only on the highlights that relate directly to the position you’re applying for. Choose achievements and responsibilities that showcase your most relevant skills. A concise, targeted response will keep the interviewer engaged and demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.

Don’t complain

Try not to say things like it has been difficult for you to find a job, even if this is the case. Avoid negative comments about previous workplaces, managers or colleagues, as this may raise concerns about your attitude or ability to work in a team. Employers are looking for candidates who demonstrate professionalism, resilience and a positive mindset — especially under pressure.

Don’t share personal information

Avoid discussing highly personal topics such as your marital status, sexuality or religion. These subjects are not relevant to the role and can be highly sensitive. Sharing them unnecessarily may create discomfort or distract from your professional strengths. Instead, focus on your qualifications, experience and what makes you a strong fit for the position.

Preparing for an interview isn’t always easy, particularly when it comes to answering open-ended questions like Tell me about yourself. To give yourself the best chance of making a strong impression, professional support can make a real difference. Professional interview coaching can help you refine your responses, build confidence and communicate your strengths with clarity.

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Article References

Indeed (n.d) ‘Interview Question: ‘Tell Me About Yourself’’, Indeed, accessed 24 November 2025

Seek (27 February 2025) ‘How to answer: ‘So, tell me about yourself’’, Seek, accessed 24 November 2025