In every job interview, you will hear some version of, “Tell me about yourself.” Do not respond to this with a retelling of your resume or the unabridged version of your life story. What the interviewer really wants to know are the answers to these two questions: “Why you?” and “Why this role?” Here is a step by step guide on how to respond.
- Lead with your goal
Tell the interviewer how this job is in perfect alignment with your goals. Let them in on your career hopes and dreams. Show how this job is ideal for your ambitions. Let your interviewer know what you are trying to achieve, why this role excites you, and how this role fits into the big picture. You can say something like, “I have always wanted to be a part of a successful healthcare practice.” - Tell your story
This is NOT a retelling of your resume. Instead talk about your professional experience in a way that positions you as being a perfect match for the role. Tell it like a story with a very clear beginning, middle, and end. Leave out irrelevant information and jobs that do not fit into the story. The end of your story should always be a variation on, “That’s why I’m looking to make a move. I am really excited about this opportunity.” - Connect the dots
Connect where you have been and where you want to go to the reason why you are the perfect person for this role. Make it crystal clear that where you have been and where you want to go are perfectly lined up with this role and your passions. An example, “This role is perfect for me. I’ve been a practice manager for three years at a small private practice. The whole time I have been dreaming about being a part of an academic health system. This role overseeing your multispecialty physician practice associated with the prestigious X health system will enable you to put my A, B, and C skills to good use.”
At your next interview, lead with your goal, tell your career story the right way and then connect the dots so that the interviewer will have no choice but to see how you are the perfect candidate for the role. Unlock your interview success by giving the right response.