At the very start of your job interview, the hiring manager will either say to you, “Introduce yourself” or “Tell me about yourself”. Your answer to whichever question they ask is so important for creating the right first impression!
In this blog, we will explain the difference between these two interview questions, as well as tell you what to include in your answer to each interview question. We will also give you a very easy structure to remember for each one!
Finally, we will give you brilliant scripted example answers to the interview questions “introduce yourself” and “tell me about yourself” to help you be the stand-out candidate.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE INTERVIEW QUESTIONS, “TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF” AND “INTRODUCE YOURSELF”?
The main difference is that “tell me about yourself” is more in-depth and covers things such as the skills and qualities you have, any previous work experience gained, academic and educational qualifications, and what you will do in the role if they hire you.
The “introduce yourself” interview question on the other hand is a brief introduction of who you are, the words you would use to describe yourself and the key strengths you possess that will be of benefit in the workplace!
WHAT TO INCLUDE IN YOUR ANSWERS
“TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF”
If the interviewer says to you at the start of your interview, “tell me about myself”, use the S.E.A.T format to structure your answer.
S.E.A.T stands for the SKILLS you have that match the job description, the EXPERIENCE and/or EDUCATIONAL qualifications you have, any previous significant ACHIEVEMENTS you have gained in your life so far, and also the TYPE of person you will be whilst working for their company.
“INTRODUCE YOURSELF”
If the interviewer asks you to introduce yourself at the start of the interview, use the B.E.A.T format. B stands for your BEST 3 qualities. E stands for EDUCATIONAL background. A stands for the ACTIVITIES and interests you have outside of work, and T stands for one area of TALENT you have that will be of benefit to their company.
“TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF” (SCRIPTED ANSWER)
“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed for this position with your company today. I already have the skills and qualities to match the job description. I am industrious, hard-working, an excellent team worker and collaborator, and I can easily prioritise tasks to ensure my employer’s goals are always achieved. I have experience working on time-sensitive projects, dealing with difficult challenges, and communicating with customers and clients. I have a track record of achievement. For example, in my last position, I helped the company increase sales by recommending we should advertise our products and services on social media. If you hire me, I will be the type of person who always goes above and beyond what is expected, and I will willingly carry out duties outside of my job description.”
“TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF” (SCRIPTED ANSWER”
“Thank you. My name is [INSERT YOUR NAME], and my best qualities include my diligent way of working, my resourcefulness during difficult challenges, and my loyalty to others, including my employer. I graduated from college with useful educational qualifications in English Language, Computer Science and Mathematics. Outside of work I like to keep myself active. I visit the gym several times a week which helps my concertation levels and increases positivity. I also like reading non-fiction books which helps to develop my skills and knowledge. One of my main talents, which I think will be of benefit to your company, is the fact I am very good with people, particularly customers, and I have a skill of asking the right questions to assess a customer’s needs and then provide exceptional service which helps increases sales and retains customer loyalty.”
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