The “Tell Me About Yourself” Blunder
When you walk into an interview, the interviewer will often say “Why don’t we get started with your telling me a little bit about yourself?” This is usually a means to break the ice and to get the ball rolling. Typically, people are inclined to tell their life story at this point. The key here, however, is that the interviewer is not actually asking you to tell them about yourself. It is not of interest to them where you were born or whether you have pets. What the interviewer is really asking, without being too direct, is “why should I hire you?” One of the best things you can do to prepare for an interview is to have an answer tailored to this role ready to go.
The “tell me about a time”
- STAR method
Do you know about us?
- Be well researched, know who your interviewer is, review job specs
Showing up late or untidy
- Make sure to arrive on time and be dressed slightly more formal than necessary for the role
Know what the types of questions are
- Not attending Interview Skills
If you’ve got an interview coming up and are looking to be prepared, book a mock interview with your Resource advisor!