When an interviewer asks “tell me about yourself,” you may be tempted to share an overly lengthy, detailed biographical story. However, your potential big-shot employer is not looking for a biography, they are hoping to get an idea of how you think and what makes you special. Therefore, you need to give a concise, well-thought out answer that will set you apart from the competition.
The first step to creating an excellent, personal statement about yourself is identifying positive adjectives that best describe you. For example, you could use words such as dedicated, hardworking or passionate. These adjectives will not only impress the interviewer but also show how you can make an immediate contribution to the company’s success.
Another key factor to consider when deciding how to describe yourself is the type of job for which you are applying. For example, if you are applying for a sales role then mentioning your negotiation skills is probably beneficial. Similarly, if the position involves meeting new people then you should highlight your social skills in your response.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS, is a complex, chronic disease affecting multiple body systems. ME is not a psychiatric disorder and cannot be cured, but it can be managed. ME is triggered by infection in the majority of patients and symptoms can range from mild to severe. It is estimated that 75% of patients are unable to work and 25% are bedridden or homebound due to ME.
ME is a neurological disease, affecting the brain and spinal cord. Unlike most chronic diseases, ME is not a result of poor diet or lack of exercise. It is thought to be a neuro-immune disorder, and it is believed that ME can be triggered by a virus or bacterial or viral infection. It is also possible that certain conditions, such as an immune deficiency, could increase the risk of developing ME.
Research is ongoing, but there is no current cure for ME/CFS. Various treatments have been tried, but none have shown significant improvement in ME/CFS symptoms. Nevertheless, patients can manage their symptoms through pacing, which means controlling how much activity they participate in; sleep aids; medications such as antidepressants and muscle relaxants; and physical therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy.
It is important that people with ME/CFS seek help when needed. This can include support groups that offer peer support and advice, as well as services that can assist in accessing welfare benefits or obtaining aids to enable independent living. There are also a number of charities and organisations that can assist with funding, providing equipment and offering other support to individuals and families affected by ME/CFS. See Action for ME’s list of resources for further information.