Interview Question: “How Would You Describe Yourself?”

Assuming you have completed your university education, it’s apparent that you would start looking for a lucrative job. You begin applying to different companies and get an interview call. It’s quite apparent that one would get nervous during the interview. This feeling intensifies when the interviewer asks you to describe yourself. You know yourself but are unaware of how to put them into words before the interviewer. 

The next time you attend an interview and don’t want to get perplexed, here’s what you must know. 

Why do Interviewers Ask “How Would You Describe Yourself?”

Interviewers pose this question to learn more about you and your personal perspective. Recognizing such questions is the initial step towards mastering the art of self-description during interviews. Furthermore, they ask this question because they are eager to select the most qualified candidate for the role. They look forward to understanding which prospective employee can offer the greatest value to the organization.

How to Answer Interview Question “How Would You Describe Yourself?”

During any interview, it’s crucial to leave the interviewer with the impression, “This individual would excel in this role!” However, the question remains: How can you achieve this? The initial step involves understanding the significance of your background and experience. Convey this information in an engaging manner. It will captivate the interviewer’s interest and underscore its value to the company.

Consider these recommendations when describing yourself during an interview:

Introduce Your Professional Identity

To answer the question, “How would you describe yourself?” begin by introducing yourself as a professional. Include details like your work title (current or former), educational background, and any certifications or credentials you may have. For instance, you may state, “I am a marketing specialist with more than five years of experience in digital marketing and a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from XYZ University.”

Use Examples from Past Jobs or Education

If you have a long history of employment, you may provide pertinent examples from that career. It ought to fit the role you intend to apply for. For instance, despite having a degree in English literature, you want to work as a writer in the technology sector. 

Concentrating on professional experiences throughout the interview can be wiser rather than becoming too personal. Talking professionally will help keep the conversation on business-related topics. 

Clearly State Your Skills and Abilities

Knowing the abilities relevant to the position you are applying for is crucial when presenting yourself in an interview. Ensure these abilities are evident on your resume or cover letter so interviewers can get a sense of who you are.

It is advisable to avoid trying to guess your strengths if you are unsure of them. Instead, discuss the skills and experiences that have played a pivotal role in shaping your current self. Explain why these experiences hold relevance for the position in question.

Summarize Yourself in a Few Meaningful Words

To portray yourself during an interview, providing a concise yet impactful overview is advisable. Use terms that will leave a lasting impression on the interviewer, enabling them to introduce you to others. It’s essential to premeditate your response. It ensures that you can address this question during the interview with confidence. 

This task should be straightforward if you possess prior experience in your field. However, if you don’t, consider researching job descriptions online. It will ascertain the essential skills required for success at the specific company you’re applying to.

Never Provide Fake Information

When portraying yourself, it is critical to be authentic. Avoid using overused terms or current jargon that does not represent your personality. Provide an honest assessment of your skills, flaws, and areas where you are still growing. This technique can demonstrate to the interviewer that you are self-aware and eager to learn new abilities and improve yourself.

How Would You Describe Yourself Sample Answers?

Here are a few how would you describe yourself examples to consider:

Sample 1:

I possess strong creativity, effective communication skills, and adaptability. I thrive in collaborative environments and consider myself a valuable team player. While I can independently manage projects, I value and prefer working alongside my team members.

Sample 2:

I see myself as a highly current and forward-thinking individual. I’ve eagerly anticipated this opportunity for a while. I’m excited that you’ve selected me for this interview.

Sample 3:

I see myself as a dependable and outcome-driven individual. Beyond my programming background and engineering proficiency, I’ve undertaken numerous projects of varying sizes and degrees of complexity throughout my career.

List of Words to Describe Yourself

Here are several how would you describe yourself examples of words you can use:

• Analytical
• Calculated
• Committed
• Conscientious
• Dedicated
• Diligent
• Disciplined
• Eager
• Engaged
• Entrepreneurial
• Focused
• Hardworking
• Industrious
• Initiator
• Insightful
• Inventive
• Persistent
• Persuasive
• Practised
• Proactive
• Reliable
• Resourceful
• Skilful
• Tenacious
• Thorough

What Not to Answer – “How Would You Describe Yourself?”

It’s not necessary to list all your achievements in a single response. Aim to concentrate on a few accomplishments within each category, such as leadership, teamwork, or initiative. It will effectively illustrate your alignment with the employer’s expectations.

When responding to “How would you describe yourself,” refrain from attempting to include everything at once. Avoid responding, “I would consider myself a very up-to-date and innovative person as I have worked on an ABC project at XYZ job. I also managed a team at the PQ organization. Apart from this, I also showed incredible passion while working at ABC company.”

Focus on key accomplishments that highlight your qualifications and relevance to the position.

Conclusion

The key is to present yourself with clear, confident, and professional communication. It will help to convey a convincing, assured image to potential employers. It will prioritize outcomes over detailing the entire journey and showcase your unique qualities to underscore value to prospective employers.