How to Answer the Hardest Interview Question

How to Answer the Hardest Interview Question

The hardest interview question is often the one that should be the most natural, "tell me about yourself".

You are really being asked to answer multiple questions.

Why are you interested in this role?
Why should I hire you?
What got you to this point in your career?
What are you like to work with?

In conversations with hundreds of candidates, I can tell you that the most impressive and thoughtful responses generally follow the following structure and last roughly two minutes:

HUMAN CONNECTION (30 seconds)
In sharing some specific examples of your personal background and preferences, you will afford the person with whom you are speaking an opportunity to identify a point of affinity with you.

PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS (45 seconds)
Provide a few relevant highlights from your work experience, focusing on accomplishments and connecting those experiences to the job descriptions.

GRATITUDE + INTEREST + CLOSING (45 seconds)
Share three essential points-- why you are grateful for the opportunity to interview, why you are interested in this particular position and organization, and why you believe you would be a good fit for the role

If done correctly and presented in a natural manner, not only will this approach advantage you in your job search, but you will also be making it easier for your interviewer to better understand you and your unique talents and passions.