How To Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Questions & Sample Answers

It’s the question many interviews start with: “Tell me about yourself” or words to that effect. 

It sounds simple – but it can catch you off guard if you’re not ready. Some might ramble, while other people freeze and many end up just listing their CV word-for-word.

The truth is, this question isn’t just a polite opener. It’s actually one of the most important moments in the interview. 

It’s your opportunity to set the tone and build confidence, while giving the interviewer an immediate indication as to whether you’re the right fit.

So let’s break down how to answer “tell me about yourself,” why employers ask it, and what a great answer looks like – with simple examples you can adapt.

Key takeaways – Tell me about yourself: Answers

• Keep your answer short – aim for 60 to 90 seconds maximum
• Focus on what the employer wants to hear – think about the job spec and not just your backstory
• Stick to a simple structure: past, present, strengths and goals
• Prepare and practise – you don’t want to make your answer up on the spot
• Be ready to back up your answer with achievements or results

Why do interviewers ask the “tell me about yourself” question?

It’s a question that helps interviewers quickly figure out who you are, what you bring to the table, and whether you’re a good fit for the team. 

It immediately gives them a chance to see how confidently and clearly you can communicate. 

First impressions are often made within the first few minutes – sometimes even sooner. This is why a well-prepared answer here helps you take control and make an immediate impact. 

Think of this as your personal pitch. The key is to sell yourself from the employer’s point of view, not just your own.

How to answer tell me about yourself in an interview

It’s happened to most of us at some time or another in an interview. 

You get asked to tell the interviewer about yourself and all your zingy phrases and ideas seem to have vanished from inside your head. 

That’s why it’s sensible to focus on nailing the core structure of your answer – and sticking closely to it.

Here’s a tried and tested format that works:

1. Present – Start with your current (or most recent) role and responsibilities
2. Past – Briefly explain your career path and highlight key achievements
3. Skills – Pick two or three strengths that relate to the role
4. Future – Say why you’re excited about this job and what you’re looking for

Example:

“I’m currently a marketing executive at [company name] where I lead digital campaigns and manage the social media channels.

I started out in content writing and over the past four years I’ve built experience in brand strategy and data analytics.

I’m passionate about using insights to drive results – for example one campaign I ran recently, using data from a market research project I commissioned, grew email engagement by 55%.

I’m now looking for a role where I can take on more responsibility and help shape the wider marketing strategy.”

Keep it natural – but make it purposeful. Remember, you’re telling a story, not listing too many facts.

Common mistakes to avoid

These are some of the most common mistakes we flag when giving interview advice:

• Waffling – Keep it short and relevant. Under two minutes is ideal
  
• Repeating your CV – You want to explain the why, not just the what
  
• Focusing on your life story – Skip childhood, hobbies or unrelated side jobs
  
• Being vague – Be specific with roles, results and direction
  
• Forgetting the job you’re applying for – Tailor your answer to them, not just you

For more interview tips, check out our guide on common interview questions and how to answer them.

Tell me about yourself: Sample answers

Looking for some inspiration?

Here are three examples of how to answer this question for different stages of a career:

Graduate or entry-Level

“I recently graduated with a degree in Business and Management, where I focused on marketing and consumer psychology. During university, I completed a placement year at a retail company, where I helped the team launch a new loyalty scheme. I’m organised, creative and love working with data – and I’m looking to build my career in marketing where I can keep learning and contributing.”

Mid-Career professional

“I’ve spent the last six years in operations roles, most recently as an operations coordinator for a logistics firm. I’ve led projects to improve delivery times and reduce errors – one change I can tell you about later saved over £50,000 last year. My strengths are in problem-solving and managing people, and I’m now looking for a new challenge where I can step into a leadership role.”

Career changer or returning to work

“I’ve worked in teaching for over a decade, but I’ve recently retrained in UX design after completing a bootcamp and working on freelance projects. I bring strong communication skills and a user-first mindset and I’m now looking to grow in a creative tech environment where I can help improve digital experiences.”

Your career stage will have a significant impact on how you’ll approach the application process. Of course, our career coaching service is available, too, if you’re looking to really nail down your next role.

Bonus tip: Use mini-stories (methodically) 

You’ll often hear career coaches recommend preparing a few short stories using the CAR method – that’s:

• Challenge
• Action
• Result

These help you back up your answers with clear, relevant examples. You may also hear of the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

For example:

“At my last job, we were struggling with high customer churn. I led a small taskforce to review customer feedback and test improvements. We rolled out changes informed by the insights that cut cancellations by 25% in six months.”

Practice saying them out loud – like telling a good joke. Know where the “punchline” is. The more familiar you are with these stories, the more naturally they’ll come across – even under pressure.

Recently we also covered the what motivates you interview question and what can you bring to the company?

We also recommend reading our guide on answering the tell me how you handled a difficult situation interview question and – how do you work under pressure? Plus, check out our guide on scenario-based interview questions.

FAQs: Tell me about yourself interview questions

What is the best answer for “tell me about yourself”?
A good answer is short, tailored to the role and focused on your career highlights and strengths. Show what you can offer – not just your job titles.

How to answer if an interviewer says “Tell me about yourself”?
Use a clear structure: current role, relevant background, skills, and what you’re looking for. Keep it under 90 seconds and link your experience to the job.

Can you tell me about yourself in a few words?
Try something like: “Experienced project manager with a focus on tech transformation and team leadership.” Be concise and confident.

What is your greatest strength? Best answer
Pick a strength that matches the role – e.g. “I’m good at leading cross-functional teams and delivering results under pressure. Last year, I managed a £100k project that came in on time and under budget.”

What is your biggest weakness? How to answer it
Choose a real but minor weakness and show how you’re working on it – e.g. “I used to struggle with delegation, but I’ve started using task-planning tools and team check-ins, which has really helped.”

How to answer: Why should I hire you?
Link your skills to what the company needs. Focus on the value you bring – “I’ve got experience solving problems like the ones your team is facing, and I’m excited to contribute from day one.”

Final thoughts: How to answer tell me about yourself

“Tell me about yourself” is more than just a warm-up. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression – and take control of the conversation from the start.

With a bit of structure and a few powerful examples, you can answer it with confidence and set the tone for a great interview.

There is also plenty of useful career-focused advice in our blog. For example:

• How To Tell If An Interview Went Well: Good and Bad Signs
• How To Get A Job With No Experience: Can You Do It?
• Coaching vs Mentoring: Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring

Need help telling interviewers about yourself? Our career coaching service can help you prepare, practise and stand out. 

And if you want to start with a standout CV, check out our professional CV writing service. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more details.