This important interview question can often confuse people. Are the interviewers asking about your work life or personal life? Do they just want you to talk through your resume? How much detail should you give and how long should you talk for?
How you answer this question sets the scene for how your interview will progress. It is often the first question asked, and is your big chance to make a great first impression. For the interviewers, it is an easy way to start an interview and get you talking. Think of it as your elevator pitch. A short summary that tells them why you are a good fit for the job and why they should hire you.
Your answer should be no longer than 2 minutes. It should mainly be work related, unless instructed otherwise. It is an interview question that you can prepare for in advance.
After carefully reviewing the job description, ensure you know the qualifications required for the job. Check where you meet or exceed the requirements of the role. Thoroughly research the company. Then identify, list and review your own successes and accomplishments, relevant to this role.
Then, you are ready to put yourself in the employer’s shoes. To emphasize what will make you stand out for the company and for this job.
Follow these 3 steps to help create your answer:
STEP 1 – Who are You?
This is where you give a brief, concise description of who you are and your key qualifications, strengths and skills. Make sure this is relevant to the job you are currently being interviewed for.
Example: “I am currently (or most recently) the Marketing Manager of an IT Services business called (insert name of your current or most recent employer) and have 5 direct reports. With 14 years marketing experience, I have also worked previously within FMCG and retail, for companies including Woolworths and David Jones “
STEP 2 – Your Highlights
What is your USP (Unique Selling Point) Aim to tailor your answer to the job you are being interviewed for, and declare the strongest benefit that you offer an employer. This will leave the interviewer compelled to know more.
Example: “My passion is in developing long term client relationships where I can drive brand and category growth. In my current role, I have been able to drive double-digit growth in a declining category though new product development, brand repositioning and an integrated marketing campaign. I did all of this whilst recruiting and training a new team of 3 marketing assistants. I also enjoy coaching and developing staff and am really proud of the people who have worked for me over the years.”
STEP 3 – Why are you There?
Tell them why you want the position and why they should hire you.
Example: “I have worked in 3 different types of industries and this has enabled me to broaden and enhance my marketing knowledge and skills. With my experience and background I know I could really add value to your organisation and make a difference. I think I would be a great fit for your organisation and would love to be part of your continued success.”
If you do want to add in some personal info then something like this –
“Outside of work, I am an active member of Bondi Surf Club and am currently age co-ordinator for the under 10 age group. Ocean swimming and the outdoors has been a life long passion of mine.”
Putting it all together, your answer can look like this:
“I am currently (or was most recently) the Marketing Manager of an IT Services business called (insert name of your current or most recent employer) and have 5 direct reports. With 14 years marketing experience, I have also worked within FMCG and retail, for companies including Woolworths and David Jones.
My passion is in developing long term client relationships where I can drive brand and category growth. In my current role, I have been able to drive double-digit growth in a declining category, through new product development, brand repositioning and an integrated marketing campaign. I did all of this whilst recruiting and training a new team of 3 marketing assistants. I also enjoy coaching and developing staff and am really proud of the people who have worked for me over the years.
I have worked in 3 different types of industries and this has enabled me to broaden and enhance my marketing knowledge and skills. With my experience and background, I know I could really add value to your organisation and make a difference. I think I would be a great fit for your organisation and would love to be part of your continued success.”
“Outside of work, I am an active member of Bondi Surf Club and am currently age co-ordinator for the under 10 age group. Ocean swimming and the outdoors has been a life long passion of mine.”
This is your story!
Write it down, practice saying it out loud. Try videoing or recording yourself so you can watch and listen to yourself.
The more you practice, the more relaxed and authentic you will sound. It then becomes easier and more natural to tell your story.
You need to be concise. Your communication and ability to stay on track with your answer is something the interviewers are watching closely.
The interviewers want to see that you can tell your story, without getting side-tracked or distracted. They do this because it can tell them how you would potentially communicate as an employee of their company. Also, how you might communicate if there was a problem or a disagreement. Or even when you simply want to share your knowledge or opinion.
Try using a condensed version of this as your elevator pitch at networking events, when you meet new people. It is a great way to tell people what you do and what you are good at.
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