These are the words that launch many interviews. It’s the most hated interview question. However, the statement is not a question, and it’s a bad grammatical construction. That said, it freezes many job seekers. Their answer is often a rambling biographical mish-mash that has nothing to with convincing an employer that he should hire the person in front of him.
Here’s an alternative way to treat this situation: Think of it as an opportunity. Tell the employer why your background meets her needs. Fit your history to what you would be doing for your new employer. Show some passion for what you will be doing: “I’ve always enjoyed selling. When I was a Girl Scout, I loved selling cookies. Over the past five years, I’ve sold medical equipment to hospitals. That experience has prepared me to engage your customers in the health care industry.”
Don’t be afraid when an employer lets you introduce yourself in your own words. Welcome the opportunity and show why you will be an asset to the company.
