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You're in an interview for your dream job.
First question: "Tell me about yourself."
Can you remember the name of your high school? Are you frozen completely?
(It happens to the best of us.)
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Present, Past, Future
It helps to have a structure to your answer. Explain:
your current role or project
what experiences led you to that role
how you see yourself succeeding in a future role with your interviewer
(Don't say this. If you're currently unemployed, talk about volunteer projects or something you're learning.)
Quiz
Which would be a good way to start your answer?
Make sure each part of your answer is relevant to how you will fit the role you're interviewing for.
Customize Your Response
Draft a new answer to this question for each interview. Show you understand the company culture and how you can help achieve their goals by leveraging your skills and experience.
Your answer should make them think "This person gets it."
Quiz
What resources could help you customize your response?
Research, research, research! The more you know about the company, the more powerful your answer will be!
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Rumie is a nonprofit community dedicated to making innovative learning free for everyone.
Keep It Short!
Keep your answer about 30 to 90 seconds long. Remember, your interviewer is learning if you're someone they'd enjoy working with. Practicing your response will help you keep it tight.
No one wants to hear this during an interview.
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Take Action
Prepping for an interview? Take some time to put your "Tell Me About Yourself" answer together!
This Byte has been authored by
Kate Zeis
Educator, Instructional Designer, and Grammar Nerd