How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” Effectively

Tell me about yourself” is often the first question in an interview. It sets the tone. Keep your answer concise: 30 seconds is enough.

Structure it with three points:

  1. Your professional background

  2. Your current focus

  3. Why are you interested in this role

Avoid life stories or unrelated details. Practice out loud to sound natural, not rehearsed.

Candidate answering tell me about yourself interview question

Learn more about answering top questions in our interview tips guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q: How long should my “Tell me about yourself” answer be?
A: Keep it under 30 seconds and focus on your background, current role or studies, and interest in the job.

Q: Should I include personal details?
A: Keep it professional. Share relevant experiences, not personal life stories.