So, tell me a bit about yourself… A question that so many of us fear, mainly because the majority of people don’t enjoy talking about themselves. But if you’re looking for your next role at Senior Level Management, or Executive level, being able to confidently and calmly talk about yourself is key.
You absolutely need to be prepared for this question to come up in the interview process.
First things first - assume they are asking about the ‘Professional’ you unless they state otherwise. Then if they don't give you a time limit to answer this question - ask them how long you have to answer it. It helps you to determine immediately how much detail to go into - then you can pick and choose the most appropriate version of the ‘Professional’ you to present.
General information to prepare is:
Clarify and summarise immediately what you are known for delivering or what your professional reputation has been built on. This could simply be reinforcing what you have in your professional statement in your CV - assuming you've done that properly.
Highlight the main skills and experience you have and ensure they align with the requirements in the job specification.
Highlight what your greatest achievements have been, and the positive impact that you have had in regard to these. Sound proud and enthusiastic!
Highlight your wider skills and experience, again in line with the job specification.
Flag your key competencies or transferable skills, again in line with the job specification.
What do you particularly enjoy doing/our motivation? Answer in line with the job specification.
What you are looking forward to doing going forward? Be sure to include some of the details of the role the job specification highlights.
If they ask about the ‘personal’ you - focus on all the positives, maybe any work you do for charities or things that reflect general competencies such as teamwork or leadership skills.
Want to know more?
Get in touch to find out more about how I can support you through the recruitment process.