Putting Yourself into Words

The purpose of today’s session Today’s session is all about finding the right words to describe yourself. We are going to think about how we talk about ourselves, especially to employers. Our aim is to help you answer the interview question ‘Tell me about yourself’.

What are you like? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCEa425YMms

Introducing yourself It’s not always easy to talk about yourself. Turn to the person next to you and introduce yourself to them in one sentence. Try to use 3 describing words. For example: ‘I am enthusiastic, confident and determined.’ For example: ‘I am hard-working, keen and friendly.’

Describing Yourself What was it like describing yourself? Did you feel embarrassed, or shy? Or did you find it easy? What did you highlight? What did you hide?

Focus on the positive Sometimes we talk about ourselves in a negative way. We might say ‘I don’t have much experience of this type of work’ or ‘I’m not a very confident person.’ How does this sound when we’re talking to employers?

Tell me about yourself? This is one of the most common interview questions Acts as an ice breaker and to put you at ease But what does the employer want to hear? Something positive. Your best bits. Something relevant to the job.

You are the star 10 minute activity to give you a template answer to the job interview question ‘Tell me about yourself’ Resources Skills Audit Worksheet Putting Yourself into Words Worksheet

You are the star ME 3 describing words Career hopes and dreams What have I been doing? Other skills I’m good at 3 describing words Career hopes and dreams ME My strongest skill

You are the star What did you write on each point? What sort of words did you use about yourself? Which point did you find the easiest? Which point did you find the hardest? What did you highlight? What did you hide?

Reintroduce yourself Turn to the person next to you and answer the question, ‘Tell me about yourself’ using this template answer I am …………………………………..(describing words) who has been………………………………………….(what you have been doing). I am good at…………………………………………………(your strongest skill) which I have shown through………………. (example) I’d love the chance to …………………………..(career hopes and dreams) which is why I am so excited about this opportunity Remember to focus on the experiences and skills that are going to be most relevant to the position and the company that you are applying to.

Summary: Think Positively Everyone has some positive aspects which they can highlight. Thinking about your best bits really help you to prepare for interviews. Focus on the skills and experience that are most relevant for the job you are applying for. Speak to an adviser in the Advice Shop if you need more interview practice. Good Luck!