Strategies for Answering 'Tell Me Something Interesting About Yourself' in a Job Interview

During a job interview, you might encounter a common question: 'Tell me something interesting about yourself.' This question can be daunting, especially if you find yourself struggling to come up with something relevant and engaging, or if your mind goes blank.

When an interviewer is already familiar with your resume and you're finding it challenging to come up with something interesting to say, try sharing a personal story, an example that highlights your character, work ethic, or problem-solving skills. You could also mention a passion or hobby that aligns with the job you're applying for, or something that shows your drive, curiosity, or ability to learn. Just make sure to connect it back to the role you're interviewing for, making it clear why it's relevant.

What to Do When You Have Personal Interests Not Relevant to the Position

Perhaps you have some personal interests that are not relevant to the position, and you didn’t list them on your resume. Tell a short story about an experience you had, such as hiking in a park when you saw a bear, or playing guitar in a band when someone jumped on stage. A memorable, entertaining anecdote can engage the interviewer and leave a positive impression.

A favorite strategy that has always worked is to say “Well, I got arrested one time.” This often piques the interviewer’s interest, leading them to ask you to elaborate. By sharing the story, you can demonstrate your character and problem-solving skills in a brief conversation.

Preparing for the Interview

The key to handling this question effectively is preparation. Google possible questions your interviewer might ask and have well-rehearsed answers ready. Talk to your friends and family and ask them about questions they had to prepare for when they were seeking employment. Perhaps speak with a career counselor or job services for insight and advice.

Even if you feel confident and well-prepared, have a few interesting anecdotes and facts on hand. These could include unique hobbies, travel experiences, or accomplishments that showcase your personality or skills. This preparation will help you feel more confident and capable of providing an engaging answer.

Strategies to Use When Mind Goes Blank

If the interviewer is familiar with your resume, consider sharing a personal story, hobby, or unique experience that highlights your personality or interests. Focus on something that demonstrates your skills or qualities in a different light. For example, mention a project or initiative you're passionate about that aligns with the company's values.

The most effective approach is to pause and reflect. Take a moment to gather your thoughts. It's okay to pause briefly before answering. This shows you are considering your response seriously.

Choosing a Relevant Example

Instead of just saying you're not good at talking about yourself, pick something. Anything. If you're still struggling, consider discussing an experience related to your professional life, such as a project you worked on, a challenge you overcame, or a skill you developed. Perhaps you led a successful team, solved a difficult problem, or achieved a personal best in your field.

Be honest but keep it positive and engaging. Avoid negative or overly personal stories. For instance, you could say, "I’m usually not great at talking about myself, but I enjoy learning new things. Recently I've been exploring [a hobby or interest] which has taught me a lot about perseverance and adaptability."

Practice Makes Perfect

Before the interview, practice answering this question with friends or in front of a mirror. This can build your confidence and help you deliver a clear, concise response. The more you practice, the better you'll feel about yourself and your abilities.

In conclusion, preparing in advance and focusing on relevant experiences can help you provide an engaging and memorable answer even if you feel put on the spot. By leveraging personal stories, problem-solving skills, and positive attributes, you can leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.