The Right Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" During an Interview

The Importance of the “Tell Me About Yourself” Question

This question often appears at the beginning of an interview as an opening. Not without purpose. Through this question, the company is trying to get to know you more deeply.

There are several purposes to this question. Such as:
• Give candidates the opportunity to introduce themselves professionally.
• Help the interviewer understand a summary of your background without reading the entire CV.
• Assess your communication skills and the way you organize information.
• Explore whether your experience is relevant to the position you are applying for.

In other words, this is the first moment to make a positive impression.

Important Things in Answering “Tell Me About Yourself”

To answer this question correctly, you need to pay attention to several important things:

1.Focus on what is relevant

Tell us about your educational background or work experience that is appropriate to the position you are applying for.

2.Use a clear structure

Your answer can be structured using the “Present – ​​Past – Future” formula: what you are doing now, previous experience, and your future career goals.

3.Show achievements

Include brief accomplishments that can demonstrate your skills or added value.

4.Adjust to the position and company

Make sure your answer reflects the needs of the position you are seeking.

Example of a 'Tell me about yourself' answer

Don't let the effort you put into applying for a job be in vain because you have difficulty answering the 'Tell me about yourself' question.
Below are some examples of answers to the question 'Tell me about yourself' that you can use as a reference.

1. For Fresh Graduates

"I graduated with a BA in Management from the University of Indonesia. During college, I was active in campus organizations and once served as head of the public relations division.

This experience made me accustomed to organizing activities and communicating with many parties.

I also had an internship for 3 months in the marketing division of a startup, which honed my skills in creating digital campaign strategies.

"Currently, I am looking for my first job opportunity in the marketing field to develop my career and contribute directly to the professional world."

2. For those with experience

"I have more than 5 years of experience in the field of digital content writing and SEO. Currently I work as an SEO Content Specialist at an online travel company.

Previously, I was a Content Editor at e-commerce specifically for mothers and children, where I managed editorial plans and optimized articles.

My expertise includes keyword research, content performance analysis, and collaboration with product teams.

I was looking for a new challenge to develop a more impactful content strategy, especially in a fast-growing industry."

3. For those who are still studying

"I am a 7th semester student majoring in Informatics Engineering at Gadjah Mada University. During college, I actively participated in various application development projects, one of which was a task management application for students.

Apart from that, I am also a teaching assistant for basic programming courses. "I'm currently looking for an internship opportunity at a technology company to practice the knowledge I've learned and expand my industry knowledge directly."

Example Answers for Various Industries in Indonesia

Still not sure about the answer above? You can try to answer based on the industry you are applying to. The following is an example of the answer.

1. Tech & Startup Industry

"I have a background as a software engineer with 3 years of experience building mobile applications.

I currently work at an edutech startup and play a role in developing new features for user applications.

I am used to working in agile teams and quickly adapting to changing product requirements.

I am interested in joining a company that has a strong social mission and a focus on technological innovation."

2. Banking & Finance Industry

"I graduated in Accounting and have worked for 4 years in the field of internal audit.

During this time I handled a lot of compliance audits and helped companies maintain the integrity of financial reports.

Accuracy and analytical skills are my strengths.

I am looking for a new role in the banking sector that will allow me to expand my analytical scope and contribute to operational efficiency."

3. Creative & Media Industry

"I have experience as a content creator and copywriter for 5 years, with a focus on social media and digital campaigns.

My portfolio includes viral campaigns for fashion and food & beverage brands. I am used to creating engaging visual and narrative content.

I want to join a company that values ​​creative ideas and provides space for content exploration."

4. Public Sector & BUMN

"I graduated in Public Administration and worked for 2 years in a local government agency as planning staff.

I am used to compiling reports, analyzing work program data, and being involved in cross-sector coordination.

"I am looking for work opportunities at BUMN because I want to contribute to national development programs that have a broad impact."

Mistakes When Answering “Tell Me About Yourself”

Even though it sounds simple, many people make mistakes when answering this question. Here are some you need to avoid:

1. Too long and wordy

Avoid answers that are too long, up to more than 3 minutes. Focus on the important things and get straight to the point.

2. Providing too much personal information

A job interview is not a place to talk about hobbies, marital status, or family conditions, unless specifically requested.

3. Reread the CV Verbally

Don't just repeat the contents of your CV. The interviewer can read it himself. Use this moment to deliver an explanatory narrative Why your journey is relevant.

4. Not adapting to the position applied for

Your answer must be tailored to the position you are aiming for. Don't use one answer template for all interviews.

5. Mentioning Too Many Technical Details

Even if you have technical expertise, avoid saying too specific things that HR or general recruiters might not understand.

6. Criticize previous employers

Be professional. Avoid airing complaints or conflicts at your old workplace, as this can make you appear disloyal.

7. Not Showing Enthusiasm

A flat, unenthusiastic tone will give a negative impression. Show enthusiasm for the position you are applying for.

The question “Tell me about yourself” is not just small talk. This is an opportunity to show who you are professionally.

Use answers that are relevant, concise, and reflect your value as a candidate.

With good preparation, you can open the interview with a strong and positive impression.

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