One of the most common job interview questions is the very simple question of “tell me about yourself”. Oddly enough, it is the question that people stumble on most often. This is such a basic question, that hopefully this blog topic will help give an idea of what you could answer with.

Why does the job interviewer ask this question?

They want to see how you open. Get a feel for your presence, personality, and style. This question gives the interviewer that opportunity because it is a great open-ended question to see how you verbally communicate.

Another reason is because they are hoping you will give them information about something they can’t ask about. An interviewer wants to know the interviewee as a person too, on the personal level. Human resource rules are so restricting that they are looking for something personal in this answer that helps them know you outside of the professional persona you carry in an interview.

This question gives them insight to you as a person, along with your skill set.

This question is such a common question, what details should you give while answering this question? The details in the list below and the interviewer should be pleased with your answer!

1. Where did you grow up?
2. Where did you go to college, and what was your major?
3. Talk about your early career experience and give a quick advancement overview.
4. Do you have family? If so, quickly give a family overview.
5. What is your favorite hobby?
6. Why are you interested in the specific position, and why are you fit for the position?

Keep in mind, these are quick overviews and you should take no longer than two minutes to answer this question. The trick to mastering your answer to this question is to practice it!

Practice makes perfect.

When preparing for an interview, this is a question that is almost guaranteed to be asked every time. Practice your answer and be very prepared for this question, you will give yourself a much better chance at landing the job you are interviewing for.

For more tips and advice from Colorado’s go-to headhunter and recruiting firm, check out the Riderflex blog and subscribe to our podcasts.