Tell Me About Yourself

One of the most common interview questions should be an easy one to answer, but it’s such a broad topic that many supply chain professionals struggle to answer concisely.  Here’s how the answer to “tell me about yourself” should typically be structured:

Structure:

1. Start with a very brief summary of what you do, perhaps including 1-2 key strengths or things that drive you.  For example, “I’m a supply chain planner with 5 years of experience in CPG.  I love problem-solving, love data analytics, and I’m the sort of person who gets excited when I see a complex spreadsheet.”
2. Briefly go through your work history in chronological order, starting from your first job (or your first relevant job).  Explain why you went from one role to another, including internal promotions within the companies where you worked.  Summarize each role briefly, but don’t go into too many details about the jobs unless prompted.
3. Wrap up with your present situation.  Instead of talking about why you want to leave your current employer, speak about what you are looking for in your next role.

Additional tips:

1. Keep it positive!  I am amazed by the negative things some individuals will say about their previous employers.  What you say about the places you’ve worked is a reflection on yourself.  Say great things about your previous employers wherever possible, and it will make you look great, too.  If you can’t say anything positive, keep it brief.
2. Keep it brief!  I mentioned this a few times already, but it is worth repeating.  If the interviewer doesn’t interrupt you with additional questions, your story about yourself should take 2-3 minutes at most.  I once met a warehouse manager who went on, uninterrupted, for 37 minutes.  Needless to say I was not impressed.  Keep it brief!

Looking for more interview or resume tips?  Check the blog at SCLSearch.com, or take a look at our jobs page to see what opportunities we have available. Connect with us on LinkedIn. And let’s see if we can help you find that perfect opportunity in supply chain and logistics.