"Tell me about yourself" is almost always the first question. It feels casual, but it sets the tone for the whole interview. The mistake most people make is treating it like a life story.
It's not your biography
The interviewer doesn't want your childhood or a list of every job you've had. They want a focused, confident answer that shows why you're right for this role.
The three-part formula
Keep it to about 45 seconds, in three beats:
- Who you are professionally — your current role or focus in one line.
- A proof point or two — a relevant achievement that builds credibility.
- Why this role — a sentence connecting your experience to the job you're interviewing for.
Rehearse, but don't memorise
Practise out loud until it flows, but don't recite it word for word — you'll sound robotic. Aim for confident and natural. End on why you're excited about the opportunity, and you'll start the interview on the front foot.