The Who’s 1971 album Who Are You is a retrospection of a decade of doubt, guilt and self-laceration. It was the band’s first post-Beatles studio album to make it to number one on the US charts and is considered a milestone in rock history. While the lyrics reflect a sense of struggle, “Who Are You” is also about triumph. It’s a reminder that you can overcome any obstacle, no matter how big it seems.
In asking the question, interviewers are trying to understand your personality and work ethic as they relate to the company’s culture, Amos says. They’re also seeking to see how well you fit the job role, so be careful not to overemphasize traits that aren’t relevant to the position.
Describe your positive personality traits in a way that relates to the position and shows how they can help you achieve your goals. For example, if you’re creative, talk about how you use that trait to solve problems in the workplace. Similarly, if you’re passionate and driven, talk about how those qualities have helped you in your career.
To make your answers more powerful, tell a brief story about a time when those personal traits played a role in getting something done. Adjectives are cheap, but stories give your interviewers a more detailed picture of who you really are. Plus, you’ll show that your soft skills are valid and transferable. This is a good place to bring up anecdotes from your previous jobs, but you should avoid using stories that are overly negative or don’t reflect your professional persona. It’s best to stick to positive experiences that aren’t too long and directly related to the position.