“So, Tell Me About Yourself”

by May 4, 2018

“So, tell me about yourself.”

The classic interview question. There seem to be so many things you could say, but what are the things that will give you an edge in that interview?

Perhaps even more critical, what things shouldn’t you say?

Jane Burnett offers some wisdom on this age-old question in her article here. Here are some of our favorite points:

  • Relate it back to your job experience and skills: It’s a job interview after all, so mention things that speak to your work ethic and capabilities. A good example would be mentioning how you’re teaching yourself a new computer program.
  • Don’t say too much: If you go on and on about yourself, the interviewer will get bored and maybe even think you’re full of yourself. Give thoughtful answers, but don’t say too much.
  • Leave the sensitive stuff out: Don’t mention anything that you think might influence their perception of you, but also things that aren’t any of their business. Try to steer away from personal/family matters, and definitely stay away from political subjects (unless it DIRECTLY relates to the job).

 

Photo by Anna Sullivan on Unsplash

Recent Posts

It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of Year To…Stream Holiday Movies!

It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of Year To…Stream Holiday Movies!

It’s hard to believe that Christmas, and the Holiday Season are upon us already. It’s been quite a challenging few weeks for many, and our team at Contemporaries, Inc., wishes you a healthy and happy holiday season, no matter what you’re celebrating. So, we are going...

Progress Not Perfection: How To Navigate New Year Resolutions

Progress Not Perfection: How To Navigate New Year Resolutions

As the year winds down (didn’t it seem to just fly by?) it becomes natural and societally encouraged to reflect on the last 365 days, as well as goals for the New Year. While these reflections can often feel forced and can come with undue pressure (think New Year’s...

Thanksgiving: An Ode To Gratitude

Thanksgiving: An Ode To Gratitude

It’s that time of year again. Thanksgiving. No matter the connotations associated with this holiday, it is undoubtedly one that brings family together, is a pause in one’s working life, and a time - if you are lucky - for reflection, and safe hibernation. And, it’s...

The Limitations Of A Resume & How We Can Help!

The Limitations Of A Resume & How We Can Help!

In this modern employment climate, resumes are unfortunately no longer enough to land a job. This statement holds true even if you have a stellar one! Why? Well, they are easy to replicate, there is a strong candidate pool, and resumes don't always do enough to...

Trick Or Treat! Come & Change Your Thoughts With Me!

Trick Or Treat! Come & Change Your Thoughts With Me!

It’s almost that time of year again! Boo! While many of you are eagerly awaiting a weekend Halloween party, putting the final touches on your child’s costume, or stocking up on candy, we thought we’d create a new tradition honoring one of our favorite holidays. We’d...

Motivation Monday

Mondays can be tough. We’ve all experienced the “Sunday Scaries”. After all, the night before a work week can prove anxious. So, what can we do to relax, and get prepared? How does one show up alert, enthused, and rested? How does one set a positive tone for the week?...

Employment In The 21st Century: Social Media Dos & Don’ts

  It’s inevitable by now that most of us have a social media presence, whether limited to Facebook, Twitter, or expanding into Instagram, even Tik Tok. And, of course, a LinkedIn account. Thus it can be easy to forget that many of these accounts - unless properly...

Treat Your Temp Job As A Rehearsal For Your (Permanent) Future

  Want to know how to get your foot through the door for a future career? Try a staffing firm like Contemporaries, Inc. where 94% of our temps “go permanent”. That’s a staggering amount! After remaining on our payroll for several months contract employees become...

The Limitations Of A Resume & How We Can Help!

The Limitations Of The Resume & How We Can Help

In this modern employment climate, resumes are unfortunately no longer enough to land a job. This statement holds true even if you have a stellar one! Why? Well, they are easy to replicate, there is a strong candidate pool, and resumes don't always do enough to...

Revisited: How To Warm Up Before Any Interview

Revisited: How To Warm Up Before Any Interview

With all of autumn’s transitions, one of those changes might be the opportunity to pursue a new position. In order to do so, make sure you’re keeping an open mind to the opportunities all around you, and practicing gratitude for the ones that come your way, especially...

Every Job or Assignment is an Opportunity for Success

Every Job or Assignment is an Opportunity for Success

In 2008, a movie titled Slumdog Millionaire hit the big screen and swept the Academy Awards as well as the British, the Critics’ Choice, and Golden Globe awards. The plot was complex and entertaining and centered on a young Indian man from Mumbai who knew so many...