Whether you’re a job seeker or college applicant, chances are that at some point you’ll have to answer the interview question: “How would you describe yourself?” The words you choose to use can make or break your first impression. Recruiters and hiring managers ask this question to assess your abilities and fit for the role. It’s important to have a prepared response that demonstrates your professional and interpersonal skills, including communication and problem-solving.
The first step in creating your self-description is to understand what makes you unique. Maybe you’ve held multiple jobs with different backgrounds, or you’ve completed a series of certifications and education programs. In this case, you may want to emphasize your broad perspective and ability to work with a diverse range of people. You might also have a particular skill set that sets you apart, such as analytical thinking or an exceptional attention to detail.
Once you’ve identified what sets you apart, write down the words that best reflect those qualities. You can even ask friends and family members to weigh in on your list, as they might be able to give you a more objective and outsider view of your strengths. From there, select the words that best capture your personality, passions and strengths, as well as your potential for growth and success.
When choosing your adjectives, avoid using overused phrases like hardworking or team player. These words can make you sound generic and unoriginal. Additionally, don’t exaggerate your attributes or try to impress with hyperbole. This will come across as insincere and can turn off an interviewer or recruiter.
Choosing the right adjectives can take some time, and you might find that your first choices don’t work. If that happens, revisit your list and select other terms that are more representative of who you are.
Another good way to identify the best adjectives is to think about when you feel most “you.” Are you at your most gregarious on the dance floor? Or are you more contemplative on a hike? This is a great way to discover your values and how they relate to the job.
Lastly, consider what qualities you would like to see in your ideal coworker. For example, if you’re an analytical thinker who values quality outcomes and accuracy, consider describing yourself as organized, detail-oriented and proactive. These qualities convey that you’re an excellent team player and have the drive to deliver results. Finally, don’t forget to include a few words that showcase your creativity and ability to think outside of the box. These are key traits that employers look for in successful candidates.