How to answer
“Tell me something about yourself that isn't on your resume.”
How to answer it
When responding, share a personal story or interest that reflects qualities relevant to the job. For example, you might say, "I have a passion for volunteering at local animal shelters, which has taught me valuable lessons in empathy and teamwork. This experience has helped shape my collaborative spirit at work, as I always strive to support my colleagues just as I support the animals in our care." The key is to reveal something that showcases skills or characteristics that contribute positively to your candidacy.
What a strong answer includes
- •The candidate shares a unique personal story that reveals their character or values.
- •They connect their answer to the job role or company culture.
- •They demonstrate enthusiasm and confidence in their response.
- •The candidate discusses a skill or experience that complements their professional qualifications.
Mistakes to avoid
- •The candidate provides a vague or generic answer without personal insight.
- •They struggle to articulate their thoughts or seem unprepared.
- •Their response is overly focused on irrelevant personal details.
- •They express negativity or lack of enthusiasm about their experiences.
Why interviewers ask this
Interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your personality, values, and interests beyond professional qualifications. They want to see how well-rounded you are and whether you possess traits that align with the company culture. It helps them assess how you might fit into the team's dynamic and gauge your interpersonal skills.