This is a common opening line during an interview. To answer this effectively and with confidence you should plan and prepare for this before the interview.
Remember:
🔑 The interviewer doesn’t want to hear your life story.
🔑 They want to hear what you can do for them.
🔑 This is a chance to get their attention quickly.
🔑 Your answer sets the tone for the remainder of the interview.
Here’s how to approach it:
✅ Emphasize why you are there.
▶️ Example: “I’ve been very successful at leading projects and building effective teams as part of my role as a department manager. Now, I am looking for an opportunity to manage projects and people on a full time basis on a larger stage.”
✅ Highlight Professional Achievements:
▶️ Example: “Recently, I spearheaded a project that resulted in an award for innovation from the National Marketing Association. This project not only boosted our company’s profile, but also increased our annual revenue by 20%. I have also won Manager of the Year two times in the past 5 years.”
✅ Include a Personal Touch:
▶️ Example: “Outside of work, I enjoy working on a volunteer local board of directors for a non-profit, where I consult on the use of artificial intelligence to help make the organization more innovative and effective. I received their annual Contributor of the Year award last year.”
✅ Keep It Concise and Structured:
▶️ Example: “To summarize, I’ve spent the last ten years performing project management as part of my full time time of people leadership. I’ve earned multiple awards, both at work and outside of work. I’m now looking to apply my project management and leadership skills on a full time basis, in a larger, more challenging, corporate environment like yours.”
✅ End by showing enthusiasm and appreciation:
▶️ Example: “I look forward to discussing my background and what I bring to this job in our conversation and I appreciate the time you are sharing with me today.”
By including these elements and examples in your answer, you present a well-rounded picture of who you are professionally and personally, while directly tying your experiences and interests to the position you’re applying for.
#JobSeekers #OpenToWork #Interview #TellMeAboutYourself
