Best job interview answers to “How would you describe yourself?”

Introduction

Landing a job interview is a significant accomplishment, but it's just the first step in the hiring process. One common interview question is, "How would you describe yourself?" But that takes a lot of work to answer. You have to be honest and impress the interviewer without coming off as self-centred. The way you answer this question will impact your first impression on employers.

Knowing how to answer tough interview questions like this is a valuable skill you'll find helpful throughout your career. What's the best way to respond? With this in-depth guide, you'll understand why the interviewer asks this question. Use our tips and best sample answers to tackle this interview question with confidence and authenticity.

• Understanding what the interviewer wants
• How to describe yourself: identifying your personal qualities
• Different ways the interviewer can ask the same question
• Practice makes perfect
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Samples of short descriptions about yourself
• Examples of positive words to describe yourself
• Additional tips for a successful interview
• Summary
• FAQs

Understanding what the interviewer wants

Interviewers ask you to briefly describe or share something about yourself because they want to know if you fit the role and the company. Their goal is to get an idea about your qualities, goals, and character while determining whether those align with the demands of the job and the company culture. While they do want to know something about your personality, it's more about wanting to see what you're like, how you see yourself, and to some degree, what interests you outside work.

Before heading into the interview, prepare to talk about the following:

• Skills
• Employment history
• Problem-solving methods
• Achievements
• Qualifications
• Work style
• Key motivators
• Collaboration style

How to describe yourself: identifying your personal qualities

1. Name your traits, values, and skills

This involves much introspection, analysis of situations you've been in, and recognising your strengths. One of the straightforward ways to help you with this is to look for career questionnaires or personality tests. Answering one or two of these will give you greater self-awareness and enable you to identify what you're good at.

2. List down your hard and soft skills

Hard skills, also called technical skills, allow you to perform the duties and responsibilities in your field. These are knowledge and competencies you learned from your education or honed through your work history.

Meanwhile, soft skills, or transferable skills, are non-technical skills that refer to problem-solving, time management, and people skills. You will find them essential even when you take on a more prominent role, switch careers, or move to a different industry. So, they are also worth noting when identifying your key personal qualities.

3. Compare your qualities with the workplace ideals

Once you've identified your qualities, it's worth comparing them with the desirable personal qualities in the workplace. Dr Blaine Landis, an assistant professor at University College London, noted that personality matters in your career as it determines your fit to the role, the team, and the organisation itself. This is why hiring managers also pay extra attention to job seekers' personal qualities during job interviews.

Some of the most sought-after personal qualities and skills in the workplace include openness, willingness to learn, accountability, and initiative. And since you will be part of a team and an organisation, empathy, collaboration, and professionalism are also highly valued by the hiring manager. Being a people person who can lift team morale is also a positive trait for any role.

Different ways the interviewer can ask the same question

“How would you describe yourself?” can be asked in various ways. So, it pays to know how to describe yourself in different scenarios. These other versions may be more targeted towards specific topics, such as your work experience, leadership skills, and problem-solving skills.  

“Can you tell me a little about yourself?”

This is the classic interview opener for many hiring managers. Here, they let you decide which personal and professional details to share. It may seem so simple like they gave you a free pass to say whatever you feel. But, it's actually tricky since you may not be sure which ones to include, or how personal you should go.

As a general rule, keep personal stuff to a minimum. But that doesn't mean you can't discuss your hobbies and interests outside work. You can still stay professional by mentioning the ones related to the role you're applying for.

Sample answer:

I recently completed my degree in Computer Science from [name of university]. I gained a solid foundation in programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. I also developed skills in software development, data structures, and algorithms.

During my university years, I participated in various coding competitions and hackathons. These experiences sharpened my problem-solving skills and taught me the importance of teamwork.

I undertook internships at software development companies. Here, I worked on projects that involved full-stack web development. These experiences allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge. They also enhanced my understanding of the software development lifecycle.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading tech blogs to stay up-to-date with the industry. I also participate in industry conferences and online communities with fellow software engineers.

I am eager to apply my skills and contribute to a dynamic team, where I can continue to grow and learn as a professional.

“How do you see yourself fitting in with our team?”

In this question, the interviewer wants to get an idea about how you work with people. How do you see yourself working with the team you may soon join? Are you excited? Motivated? Nervous? What do you see yourself contributing to the team, within and outside your role?

The key here is to balance honesty and confidence. For example, you can say that you're nervous but also looking forward to learning from and working with a more experienced team.

Sample answer:

I believe I can fit into your team with my solid theoretical foundation in Computer Science. I also have practical experience from coding competitions and internships. These opportunities honed me to become a team player who values open communication. I'm eager to contribute my skills, learn from professionals, and adapt to new team dynamics. While I'm introverted, I'm confident that I can contribute to your team's goals because I'm passionate about innovation.

“What are some of your biggest strengths?”

This is another tricky question: you must be confident without exaggerating your strengths. As Joel Schwartzberg cautioned in Harvard Business Review, your first goal in a job interview is to stand out, and your second is to sound honest. By giving templated responses such as creativity, problem-solving, or collaboration, you risk sounding cliche and unoriginal.

In a nutshell, your best strategy is to refer to the strengths listed in the job description, then rework your answer to make your skills as specific as possible. Make sure to provide real-life examples of your strengths of choice, mention their impact, and conclude with how much you enjoy putting them to work.

Sample answer:

I excel in problem-solving and critical thinking. During my university years, I participated in coding competitions and hackathons. I faced various challenges and devised innovative solutions within tight deadlines. My internship at a software development company honed my communication and collaboration skills.

I enjoy putting my problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills into practice. They allow me to make a tangible impact on projects and contribute to a team's success.

“How would you describe your work style?”

The interviewer asks this question to dig deeper into your interpersonal relationships. They want to know the soft skills that can make you an excellent fit for the role and the company.

Don't simply list these soft skills. Instead, show how you put these skills to work. Talk about how you like to work, what working environment or culture you thrive in, and how you work with others. Another important detail is to share how you communicate with your team and peers. This way, you give prospective employers an idea if your work style fits the company culture and work ethics.

Sample answer:

My work style can be described as collaborative, adaptable, and detail-oriented. I thrive in an environment that fosters teamwork and open communication. I believe in the power of collaboration, as it allows for diverse perspectives. I am adaptable to changing circumstances and evolving priorities. Attention to detail is crucial to me, as it ensures accuracy and quality in my work. I value clear and transparent communication with my team and peers. I aim to contribute my skills and engage with others to achieve goals while maintaining a positive work environment.

“How did your past experiences prepare you for this role?”

Interviewers may skip the classic version and just go straight to asking about your employment history. They want to know if your skills, qualifications, and work experience are relevant to the role you're applying for. Likewise, they're interested in hearing more details that you may not have included in your resume.

When you're asked how your past experiences prepared you for the role, think about specific situations related to the responsibilities in the job posting.

• What challenges did you encounter in your last job, and how did you overcome them?
• What were the key lessons you learned?
• What skills did you gain or improve in your previous employment?
• Why do you think they are important for the role that you want to take on now?

Sample answer:

My past experiences have provided me with a strong foundation for this role. My degree in Computer Science, from [name of university], taught me programming languages such as Java, C++, and Python. I also learned software development, data structures, and algorithms. Coding competitions exposed me to real-world challenges and enhanced my problem-solving abilities. These experiences also highlighted the importance of teamwork and effective communication.

My internship at [name of company] let me apply my theoretical knowledge in full-stack web development. Now, I have a deeper understanding of the software development lifecycle. Additionally, I strive to stay updated with the latest industry trends. I read tech blogs, attend conferences, and engage with online communities.

“How do you approach problem-solving?”

Employers want to know how job seekers tackle challenges and problems in the workplace. This question gives them an idea of how put your problem-solving skills to work to get past a difficult situation.

As with the previous question, use the job description as a guide on the challenges you may encounter once you're hired for the role. Then, talk about a similar problem that you tackled in your previous employment.

Sample answer:

I approach challenges with a systematic and analytical mindset. I break problems down into smaller components and identify the root cause. Research and gathering relevant information play a crucial role in this process.

Using my technical knowledge and experience, I explore and evaluate various potential solutions. In my previous job, I encountered a situation where a software bug disrupted the system. My team and I conducted thorough debugging and troubleshooting techniques to solve this.

We were able to resolve the issue and restore normal system functionality. This experience taught me the value of teamwork and perseverance. It also improved my problem-solving skills. I'm committed to applying this approach to overcome obstacles in the future.

“Can you give me an example of a time when you demonstrated leadership?”

Even if you're not applying for a managerial job, the interviewer will still want to know about your leadership skills. Employers always look for future leaders to help them move the company forward. Ever spearheaded a project or led a company initiative? Were you promoted multiple times in your previous company? This is the best opportunity to talk about them. Remember to mention the highlights and the positive outcome!

Sample answer:

During my final year in university, I led our group's software development project. We had to develop a mobile application that addressed a problem in our campus community. As the project manager, I coordinated the team and set project goals.

I implemented a collaborative approach, encouraging open discussions and valuing everyone's input. I assigned clear roles to each team member based on their strengths and interests. I also established a timeline with key milestones and conducted regular progress meetings.

We completed the project within the given timeframe. Our mobile application received positive feedback from the campus community. This experience showcased my leadership skills and reinforced the importance of collaboration. This experience exemplifies my ability to lead a team and deliver positive outcomes.

Practice makes perfect

Showing up prepared for an interview increases your chances of speaking with confidence. Doing a mock interview is one of the best ways to help you practise your answers. It will help you communicate more fluidly and effectively, so make time for it before your interview.

Prepare a cheat sheet

Prepare a list of questions and a “cheat sheet” of answers to review before the big day. 

Use an interview practice tool

Practise on your own by using an interview practice tool. Record yourself answering the questions to check your eye contact, verbal tics, facial expressions, hand gestures, and posture.

Ask for help

Ask a friend or family member to give you honest feedback, as they may notice any mistakes or slip-ups.

Common mistakes to avoid

Getting too personal

When asked to describe yourself, there's no need to mention your entire life story. The interviewers are more focused on knowing who you are as a professional. They want to find out what you can contribute to the organisation as a professional.

Giving cliched or overused answers

Interviewers already have a list of keywords and skills they want to hear from a job seeker. However, you have a greater chance of impressing them when your answer aligns with the role you're applying for. So, instead of saying the usual answers like “I'm a self-starter and a creative thinker,” explain how these qualities make you a great fit for the role.

Mentioning all your achievements

Finally, you don't need to mention all your achievements, soft skills, and best qualities in one go. Unless you're asked about your employment history, avoid cramming all your previous roles and companies worked in your answer. Instead, take note of what the role requires and narrow everything down from there.

Samples of short descriptions about yourself

As with the rest of the most common interview questions, the best way to describe yourself involves combining hard and soft skills. These should be tied to the role you're interviewing for. It should include real-life examples of how they enabled you to perform your best at work.  

Looking for examples of practical ways to answer this common interview question? Feel free to use the sample answers below as guide or inspiration for customising your own responses.

Communication

I'm a skilled communicator who conveys complex ideas clearly and concisely. I have experience presenting to large groups and speaking with all levels of the organisation. I actively listen and respond thoughtfully to ensure effective communication.

Data analysis

I'm a data-driven individual proficient in Excel and SQL. I can analyse and interpret complex data sets. I can also confidently present insights meaningfully and work independently or collaborate on data-driven projects.

Leadership

I'm a natural leader who motivates and inspires others. I have experience with managing teams and delegating tasks effectively. I strive to provide constructive feedback and develop the skills of my team members.

Coding

As a skilled programmer proficient in Java and Python, I have experience developing front-end and back-end applications. I write clean, efficient code and collaborate with other developers.

Adaptability

I'm a flexible and adaptable individual who thrives in dynamic environments. I am a fast learner, able to quickly learn new skills and adapt to new technologies or processes. I can also work effectively under pressure and prioritise tasks to meet deadlines.

Graphic design

I'm a creative professional proficient in graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. I specialise in developing visually appealing designs for print and digital media. I also collaborate with other designers and seek to expand my design skills.

Problem-solving

As a resourceful and analytical problem-solver, I can identify and resolve complex issues using critical thinking skills. I can also work independently or collaboratively to find innovative solutions to challenges.

Project management

I'm a detail-oriented project manager who develops and executes plans from start to finish. I have experience in managing budgets, timelines, and resources. I can communicate effectively with stakeholders and ensure project goals are met.

Empathy

I'm an empathetic individual who understands and connects with others on a personal level. I make sure to actively listen and thoughtfully respond to the needs of others. Through my experience working with diverse groups, I learned how to build strong relationships based on trust and respect.

Digital marketing

I'm a data-driven digital marketer proficient in Google Analytics and AdWords. I have extensive experience developing and executing successful digital campaigns across multiple channels. This enables me to analyse data and optimise campaigns to improve ROI.

Examples of positive words to describe yourself

Additional tips for a successful interview

Authenticity is key

Authenticity and preparedness are key to making a positive and lasting impression in an interview. The interviewers will be paying attention not only to your answers but also to how you present yourself. They will know if you're exaggerating your qualifications and achievements through your words and non-verbal cues.

Go beyond the basics

In a Forbes article, young entrepreneurs shared their tips on how to put your best foot forward during a job interview. Among these is showing company knowledge beyond the basics. Employers highly appreciate it when job seekers have done their research and truly understand the industry and the unique challenges the company needs to address. On that note, applicants who can talk about their genuine skills and experience and how they can be an asset to the team tend to make a positive impact on the interviewers.

Let your personality shine

In addition, while you shouldn't get too personal, it doesn't mean you shouldn't let your personality show. Interviewers can tell if your answers are very rehearsed, which is different from being prepared. Do away with the overused and expected responses, and remember to be yourself, and your authenticity will shine through.

In a 2021 study titled “Malaysian Fresh Graduates' Performance in Job Interviews: Politeness Strategies,'' the researchers found that interviewers regard how graduates interact and present themselves more than the information provided in the resume. This means that it's important to make a good first impression by being polite, confident, and engaged in the conversation.

Summary

Knowing how to describe yourself in an interview will increase your chances of impressing a potential employer. It's one of the most common job interview questions, yet everyone finds it challenging to answer. With a better understanding of what the interviewer wants to know, you'll learn how to describe yourself and craft authentic, relevant answers.

Ample preparation before your interview will give you the confidence to bring your best personal and professional qualities forward. Make time to study this article's sample answers on how to describe yourself. Practise your answers with mock interviews to help you avoid mistakes on the big day itself. If you have an answer that's too long, create a short but meaningful summary or list down key words that you can build on.

Get ready to ace your job interviews when you #SEEKBetter jobs today! Start by creating or updating your JobStreet profile. Then, download the JobStreet app for iOS or Android to search for jobs, send applications, and track updates on the go. Lastly, check out the Career Advice page as well for more tips on job searching, self-improvement, and career advancement!

FAQs

1. What are the most important personal qualities to mention in my answer?
   ⁠The personal qualities, skills, and accomplishments you should mention in your answer are the ones relevant to the role you're interviewing for. Study the job description and use it as a guide to pick the best three descriptive words and skills or accomplishments to mention in your answer.
2. Is it okay to mention weaknesses when answering this question?
   ⁠This is your opportunity to make a good impression, so it's important to focus only on your top strengths in your answer.
3. How long should my answer be?
   ⁠You want the interviewer to be able to take note of everything you mention in your answer. However, simple answers won't grab their attention. So keep it short and to the point, but also provide enough details to elaborate on your top strengths and qualities.
4. Can I use humour in my answer?
   ⁠In general, it's best to keep your answer professional. But, you can take some cues from the interviewer to get an idea about how “light” you can take the conversation in some parts of the interview.
5. What if I don't have any work experience?
   ⁠Don't be disheartened – you can still describe yourself well even if you have no work experience. Highlight your soft skills during the interview, and express enthusiasm for the opportunity to work for the company and learn from them.      
6. How do I balance being authentic and presenting myself in the best possible light?
   ⁠The best way to balance confidence and authenticity is by discussing the key qualities and skills you can substantiate with real-life experiences. Mention how you used them to overcome challenges or earn accomplishments in your previous work. Express how excited you are to put these skills to work to help the company meet its goals.
7. What if I have trouble identifying my personal qualities or important traits?
   ⁠If you're unsure about your best personal qualities, you can start by asking former colleagues or friends what they think. You can also take some career personality tests to help you determine your strengths and what areas you excel in.