What can you tell me about your self?
This question is quite vague and general and usually creates confusion or a dilemma for the interviewee. The interviewee may think:
- "what does she mean?"
- "what am I expected to answer?"
- "is she referring to my personal or professional life?"
If the interviewee is unconfident, hesitant or apprehensive he/she will have a harder time responding to such a question.
Some interviewees may ask:
- "What do you mean exactly?"
- "Could you be more specific?"
- "This is a question I often have difficulty in answering."
The rationale behind the responses above lies in the preoccupation some applicants have trying to figure out the interviewer's intentions. Instead of focusing their mind and energy on what they would like to say, they waste time and energy on trying to decipher the interviewer's agenda. Such responses present the interviewee in an insecure manner and may affect the development of the interview. The first question in an interview is of the utmost importance as it sets the initial impression, which impinges, more often than not, on the interview result. A hesitant and anxious opening to an interview may be detrimental. Often it is very hard to 'get back on track' after a bad opening.
Remember! You came to an interview to succeed! If the interviewer provides you with an opportunity to present yourself – seize the moment! Keep focused, concise, don't hesitate and don't be concerned; open the interview with a sense of power and enthusiasm. Put emphasis on your professional skills; concentrate on the aspects that present your abilities and accomplishments at work. |
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