How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Interview (With Examples)
It’s the first question in almost every job interview—and it’s one of the most important.
“Tell me about yourself.”
On the surface, this question seems simple, but it’s where most candidates either shine or stumble. Although it may sound casual, it actually sets the tone for the entire conversation. If answered well, you create a strong first impression. On the other hand, if you get it wrong, you may struggle to recover the interviewer’s interest.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to answer it with confidence, structure, and impact.
Why Interviewers Ask This Question
Contrary to what many think, this isn’t just small talk. Interviewers ask this to:
- Break the ice and ease into the conversation.
- Learn how well you communicate.
- See how you present your background in relation to the role.
- Gauge your confidence and clarity.
It’s not about your life story—it’s about your professional story.
What to include:
- A brief summary of your professional background
- Your key skills or achievements
- A hint of why you’re interested in this role
What to avoid:
- Personal life details or long stories
- Reading your resume word-for-word
- Talking too much or going off-track
Use the “Present–Past–Future” Formula
This is a simple and effective way to structure your answer:
- Present: What you’re doing now and your current focus
- Past: A brief summary of your relevant past experience
- Future: What you’re looking for and why this role fits
Example for a Fresher (Graduate)
“I recently graduated with a degree in Marketing from ABC University, where I focused on digital marketing and campaign analysis. During my final year, I interned at XYZ Media where I worked on social media strategies and increased engagement by 20%. I’m now looking to apply my skills in a full-time role and am excited about this opportunity at your company because of your innovative campaigns and strong digital presence.”
Example for an Experienced Professional
“I’m currently a customer support specialist at XYZ Tech, where I manage client communication and help solve product-related issues. Over the past three years, I’ve developed strong problem-solving skills and earned top customer satisfaction scores. Previously, I worked at ABC Corp in a similar role, where I also helped streamline ticketing processes. I’m now looking to move into a more dynamic environment like yours where I can contribute to both support and process improvement.”
Example for a Career Switcher
“I started my career as a graphic designer, where I developed strong visual communication and project management skills. Over the past year, I’ve shifted my focus to UI/UX design, completed several online certifications, and worked on freelance projects to build my portfolio. I’m now seeking a full-time UX role, and I’m really drawn to your company’s user-first design approach.”
Bonus Tips for a Great Answer
Keep it under 90 seconds.
Don’t lose the listener with a long-winded answer.
- Tailor it to the job.
Highlight only relevant experiences and skills. - Practice, don’t memorize.
Rehearse so you sound confident, but not robotic. - Smile and use positive body language.
First impressions count.
Final Thoughts
“Tell me about yourself” is more than just an opening question—it’s your chance to make a memorable first impression. When done right, it can set the tone for the rest of your interview by demonstrating confidence, clarity, and relevance.
Therefore, the next time you hear this question, don’t panic. Instead, treat it as your opportunity to tell a story that sells.
Want to get more interview-ready? Read our guide on How to Dress for Your First Interview.