If you’re ever asked to describe yourself, the most obvious place to start is by sharing a few facts and details about your life. For example, you might mention that you’re an avid reader or that you love to cook. However, there’s a fine line between introducing yourself in a professional manner and simply bragging about yourself. The latter can come off as egotistical and insecure, while the former can be seen as unprepared or lacking self-awareness. Fortunately, there are ways to find that balance between the two.
The first mistake to avoid is rambling on or sharing too much information. Your goal is to create a picture in the interviewer’s mind, so you want your response to be as brief and concise as possible. The longer your answer, the more likely you are to lose the interviewer’s attention.
It’s also important not to over-emphasize your positive traits or downplay your flaws. The goal of answering the “who am I?” question is to present yourself in a positive light, and giving a balanced impression is the best way to accomplish that. People who overemphasize their positive qualities are seen as arrogant and conceited, while those who understate their weaknesses are seen as insecure.
Likewise, answering the question with too many negative details could turn the interviewer off and make them think that you’re not a good fit for their company. Aside from being ineffective, this approach can also give the impression that you’re not confident or capable of handling the job.
Another mistake to avoid is failing to provide concrete examples of your abilities and skills. This is an easy mistake to make, but it can be very costly when it comes to getting the job. The hiring manager wants to know exactly how you can add value to the company, and not just generalized statements about your experience.
Research into ME/CFS is still in its early stages, so it’s hard to say exactly what causes the condition. However, it is thought to be triggered by infections, and some patients report that their ME/CFS symptoms began after a severe viral or bacterial illness. The ME Association supports open and collaborative research so that precise diagnostic tools and life-changing treatments can be found as soon as possible.
In the UK, ME/CFS is diagnosed by a healthcare professional using the NICE clinical guideline. It includes advice on symptom recognition, diagnosis, management, and referral for ongoing care and support.