Home / Blog / Interview Tips / 8 Best Sample Answers to “How Would You Describe Yourself?” Interview Question
By Mark Matyanowski | Updated on Jul 13, 2023
When it comes to interviewing, some questions are bound to come up. One of the most common is the dreaded “describe yourself” question. This job interview question can be challenging to answer because it’s not always clear what potential employers are looking for. Some people might be tempted to give a generic answer, but that’s not the best way to stand out from other candidates.
To prepare for this question, job seekers can start by researching the company culture and values. The job posting and company website can provide insight into the type of person the company seeks. It’s also helpful to review the list of words and positive adjectives used in the job posting and include those in a personal statement or cover letter. However, it’s important to avoid using generic sample answers found on social media and instead find new ways to highlight unique personality traits and experiences from previous jobs. Keeping an open mind and being willing to try new things can demonstrate that you’re the best candidate for the job.
How to answer the “How would you describe yourself?” interview question.
Answer by referencing the job description, identifying your best qualities, tailoring your answer appropriately, using specific examples, and being honest and authentic.
At MatchBuilt, we have worked with 1000s of job candidates and 100s of hiring managers, and we know why it’s a good idea to prepare the right words for this question. Here are a few reasons why:
- It’s an opportunity to showcase your strengths and qualifications.
- It’s a chance to stand out from other candidates.
- It’s a way to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
How to answer “How would you describe yourself in 5 words?”
Dedicated, Driven, Creative, Adaptable, Ambitious.
One of job applicants’ most common mistakes when answering the “describe yourself” question is not including specific examples from previous roles. Using strong adjectives and positive words to showcase your natural leadership abilities and other positive qualities that make you a great fit for the job is important. Additionally, mentioning difficult tasks you’ve tackled and how you contributed to the success of a project team can demonstrate that you’re a creative thinker with new ideas. These strategies are helpful for job interviews and can be used in a college application. We’ll provide a list of adjectives that will allow you to present yourself in the best light possible and highlight the most important things employers are looking for.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some strategies for answering the “describe yourself” question in a way that showcases your strengths and qualifications. We’ll also look at examples of how to answer this question effectively so that you can feel confident and prepared for your next interview.
Post Contents
The Best Strategy to Answer the “How Would You Describe Yourself” Interview Question
8 Best Examples Answers When a Hiring Manager Asks “How Would You Describe Yourself?”
Example 1: Hardworking
Example 2: Results-Oriented
Example 3: Team Player
Example 4: Self-Motivated
Example 5: Adaptable
Example 6: Organized
Example 7: Detail-Oriented
Example 8: Passionate
Tips To Improve Your Answer To “How Would You Describe Yourself?”
Describe Yourself Example Answers Info Graphic
How Would You Describe Yourself? Interview Answer Final Thoughts
Looking For More Information About Common Interview Questions? Check Out These Videos
The Best Strategy to Answer the “How Would You Describe Yourself” Interview Question
When answering the “describe yourself” question in an interview, it’s essential to consider the job description and select the qualities that best align with the position’s requirements. At MatchBuilt, we have helped many candidates answer this question and effectively showcase their strengths and qualifications. Here are a few tips for how to do this:
- REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: Before the interview, take the time to review the job description and identify the key qualifications and responsibilities listed.
- IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: Think about your own skills, experiences, and accomplishments, and identify the qualities that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.
- TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: Use the job description and your own qualifications to tailor your answer to the “describe yourself” question. Emphasize how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position.
- USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: Provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated your relevant qualities in the past, whether through your work experience, projects, or education.
- BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: While it is important to tailor your answer, you should never exaggerate or lie about your skills or experience. Be genuine and original in your response while highlighting you’re a good fit for the job.
At MatchBuilt, we have extensive experience helping candidates to communicate their qualifications and stand out from other candidates effectively. By following these tips, you can effectively communicate how your skills and experience align with the position’s requirements and stand out as a strong candidate for the job.
8 Best Examples Answers When a Hiring Manager Asks “How Would You Describe Yourself?”
Example 1: Hardworking
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a hardworking candidate committed to meeting deadlines.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am a hardworking individual dedicated to getting the job done. I am known for my strong work ethic and ability to meet deadlines.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My hardworking nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident I can work diligently to achieve goals and meet deadlines.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I was able to meet a tight deadline on a previous project by working extra hours and staying focused. I’m always eager to go the extra mile to ensure the success of a project.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my hardworking nature and dedication to meeting deadlines make me a strong candidate for this position. I am always looking to take on new challenges and make meaningful contributions to the company.
Example 2: Results-Oriented
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a results-oriented candidate who can drive success.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am a results-oriented individual who is focused on achieving success. I am known for my ability to set goals and work diligently to achieve them.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My results-oriented nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident that I can set goals, devise a plan of action, and achieve successful results.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I increased sales by 20% in my previous role by implementing a new strategy and consistently tracking progress. I am always looking for ways to improve and drive results.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my results-oriented nature and ability to drive success make me a strong candidate for this position. I always look to take on new challenges and impact the company’s success.
Example 3: Team Player
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a team player candidate whocan work well with others.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am a team player who is known for my ability to collaborate and work well with others. I can build strong relationships and work effectively in a team.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My team-player nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident I can work effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I successfully completed a project as part of a team by effectively communicating and collaborating with my team members. I am always looking for ways to support my team members and help the team succeed.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my team-player nature and ability to work well with others make me a strong candidate for this position. I always want to build strong relationships and contribute to a positive team dynamic.
Example 4: Self-Motivated
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a self-motivated candidate who can take initiative.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am self-motivated andcan take initiative and drive projects forward. I am known for my ability to set goals and work independently to achieve them.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My self-motivated nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident I can take the initiative and drive projects forward with minimal supervision.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I increased productivity by 15% in my previous role by implementing a new process and working independently to improve it. I am always looking for ways to improve and achieve success.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my self-motivated nature and initiative ability make me a strong candidate for this position. I always look to take on new challenges and impact the company’s success.
Example 5: Adaptable
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a candidate who is adaptable and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am adaptable and can work well in a fast-paced environment. I am known for quickly learning new skills and adapting to changes.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My adaptable nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident that I can quickly learn new skills and adapt to changes in a fast-paced environment.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I quickly learned and implemented new software in my previous role, which helped the team increase efficiency by 20%. I am always looking for ways to improve and adapt to new challenges.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my adaptability and ability to work well in a fast-paced environment make me a strong candidate for this position. I am always looking to take on new challenges and impact the company’s success.
Example 6: Organized
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a candidate who is organized and able to manage multiple tasks effectively.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am an organized individual who can manage multiple tasks effectively. I am known for my ability to prioritize and stay on top of deadlines.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My organized nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident that I can manage multiple tasks effectively and stay on top of deadlines.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I successfully managed multiple projects at once in my previous role by creating a detailed schedule and prioritizing tasks. I am always looking for ways to improve and manage my workload effectively.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my organized nature and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively make me a strong candidate for this position. I am always looking to take on new challenges and make a meaningful impact on the company’s success.
Example 7: Detail-Oriented
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw that the position requires a detail-oriented candidate who can pay attention to small details.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am detail-oriented and can pay attention to small details and ensure accuracy. I am known for my ability to catch mistakes and correct them.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My detail-oriented nature aligns well with the requirements of this position. I am confident I can pay attention to small details and ensure accuracy in all tasks.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I caught and corrected a mistake in a previous project that would have cost the company thousands of dollars. I am always looking for ways to improve and ensure accuracy in my work.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my detail-oriented nature and ability to pay attention to small details make me a strong candidate for this position. I am always looking to take on new challenges and make a meaningful impact on the company’s success.
Example 8: Passionate
REFERENCE THE JOB DESCRIPTION: I reviewed the job description and saw the position requires a passionate and dedicated candidate.
IDENTIFY YOUR BEST QUALITIES: I am a passionate individual who is dedicated to my work and always looking for ways to improve. I am known for my enthusiasm and energy in my career.
TAILOR YOUR ANSWER: My passion and dedication align well with the requirements of this position. I am confident I can bring enthusiasm and energy to the job and strive for excellence in all tasks.
USE SPECIFIC EXAMPLES: For example, I increased customer satisfaction by 15% in my previous role by going above and beyond in my customer service. I am always looking for ways to improve and exceed expectations.
BE HONEST AND AUTHENTIC: I am confident that my passion and dedication make me a strong candidate for this position. I am always looking to take on new challenges and make a meaningful impact on the company’s success.
Tips To Improve Your Answer To “How Would You Describe Yourself?”
- Highlight your best qualities and values in your answer
- Research the company and the job to tailor your answer
- Be clear, detailed, and specific
- Give a relevant description
- Be genuine
Describe Yourself Example Answers Info Graphic
How Would You Describe Yourself? Interview Answer Final Thoughts
Answering the “how would you describe yourself?” interview question can be daunting, but with the right preparation and practice, you can provide a thoughtful, confident, and accurate response.
By understanding the context of the question, considering your strengths and weaknesses, and focusing on your most relevant qualities, you can craft a response that will give your interviewer a better understanding of who you are and why you are the best fit for the job. With the right preparation, you can make a lasting impression and stand out from the competition.
At MatchBuilt, we’ve explored othercommon interview questions, such as “Why do you want to work here?“, “Why do you want this job?“, “Tell me about yourself,” “What are you passionate about?“, “What areas need improvement?” and “Why should we hire you?” We invite you to review them as well.