Don’t Make THIS Mistake When Answering The Question: “Tell Me About Yourself?”
Have you ever wondered why so many interviews start with that seemingly simple question: "Tell me about yourself"?
As a 20-year career coaching veteran, I've conducted countless mock interviews, and I always start with this question. But here's the problem: most job seekers are answering it completely wrong, and it's costing them the opportunities they deserve.
The Hidden Purpose Behind "Tell Me About Yourself"
When an interviewer asks you to tell them about yourself, they're not just making small talk. This open-ended behavioral question serves a specific purpose: to see how you interpret ambiguous questions and how much relevant information you provide.
It's essentially your first test in the interview, and many candidates fail it without even realizing it.
The Critical Mistake Most Job Seekers Make
The biggest mistake I see candidates make is immediately launching into an answer without seeking clarification.
Here's why this is problematic: "Tell me about yourself" is intentionally vague. The interviewer could be asking for one of two very different things:
A chronological walk-through of your resume
A brief professional summary that highlights your value
Without clarification, you risk giving the wrong type of response, which can immediately put you at a disadvantage.
The Simple Clarification That Changes Everything
Instead of guessing what the interviewer wants, take control of the situation with this simple response:
"I'd love to, but could I clarify something first? Are you looking for me to walk you through my resume, or would you prefer a quick professional summary?"
This accomplishes two important things:
It shows your thoughtfulness and communication skills
It ensures you'll deliver exactly what the interviewer wants
The Chef's Kiss Answer: Your Personal Branding Statement
If they ask for a quick professional summary, this is your opportunity to shine with what I call a personal branding statement. This statement should answer three key questions:
What problem do you love to solve?
How do you solve it with your unique skills?
What do you want to do with that skill set next?
This formula creates a powerful, forward-looking response that connects your passion and abilities directly to the employer's needs.
A Winning Example You Can Model
Let me show you how this works in practice. If I were interviewing for a career coaching position, here's how I'd respond:
"I love helping people get new, better-paying jobs. I do this by using a four-step methodology called the GLOW method: Gain perspective, Illuminate the goal, Own your assets, and Work it daily. I've used this methodology to build a huge online practice where people can access tools, resources, and coaching to land those new, better-paying jobs. Now, I want to bring all that experience to your organization so I can help you make more money while we help more people."
Notice how this answer:
Identifies the problem I solve (helping people get better jobs)
Explains my unique approach (the GLOW method)
Connects my future goals directly to the employer's interests
How to Craft Your Own Perfect Response
To prepare your own winning answer, reflect on these questions:
What workplace problems are you passionate about solving?
What unique skills, tools, or approaches do you use to solve these problems?
How do you want to apply these abilities in your next role?
Then, practice delivering your response concisely and confidently. The goal is to be brief (under a minute) while making a memorable impression.
Put This Technique to Work Today
This approach has helped thousands of my clients make stellar first impressions and secure job offers. The beauty lies in its simplicity and effectiveness—it transforms a potentially awkward question into an opportunity to showcase your value.
Remember, interviewers aren't just evaluating your experience; they're assessing how you communicate and whether you understand what matters to them.
Ready to elevate your interview game further? Check out all the resources in our Free Resource Center. Our 18 Most Common Interview Questions is one of my favorites!
It's your year to shine—go get that job!
Go get ‘em!
J.T. O’Donnell
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