The Interview Game-Changer

What's the one question you'll face in every interview?

There's a question you can guarantee will be asked in every interview—and in fact, for almost every job interview.

Failing to prepare for this question is like heading into battle without armor or weapons. The "Tell me about yourself" question is a staple in job interviews and often sets the tone for the entire conversation.

As a applicant your response can significantly influence the interviewer's perception of you. It's not just about reciting your resume; it's an opportunity to present yourself as the perfect fit for the role. Here are six tips to help you craft a compelling and personalized answer. Make sure to internalize these tips. Apply them the next time you're in an interview.

Before we start this article please note: If you're looking for an article that provides you with a template answer, this isn't it.

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6 Things to Remember About the Introduction

Tell a Story:

The human race has evolved and survived over centuries because of our ability to tell stories. We're fascinated by narratives, from cave paintings to modern movies. Great stories capture attention, making them perfect for first impressions. Your introduction should be the greatest story you've ever told. You're the protagonist, journeying through challenges until you finally triumph. This might sound unusual, but you'll be surprised by its impact in your interview. Craft your answer as a brief narrative showcasing your journey. Include key milestones like educational achievements, pivotal career moves, and significant projects that shaped you as a product manager. A story format creates a memorable picture of who you are and how you've progressed professionally.

Tell What's Not in the Resume:

Your story shouldn't just rehash your resume—like how you built a feature with a 50% adoption rate. Instead, share insights that aren't captured on paper. This might include passions that led you to product management, a personal philosophy that drives your work, or a unique professional challenge you overcame. These details add depth to your professional image and can resonate more personally with the interviewer. Remember, they've already read your resume before the interview. If they wanted to hear the same information, they wouldn't have asked the question. Use this time wisely to share something new.

Be Concise:

In our social media age, attention spans are short—about 8 seconds on average. To make your introduction memorable, keep it brief and engaging. Aim for a response between 60 to 120 seconds. This timeframe helps maintain the interviewer's attention and leaves room for discussion. A concise answer also demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and respect the interviewer's time.

Connect the Dots:

Remember that scene from Apple TV's "Ted Lasso" with the dart game wager? It's one of my favorites. Ted tells a story about playing darts with his father throughout his childhood, making us believe he was preparing for this exact moment. It's all about connecting the dots. This storytelling style grabs attention, so use it to your advantage. What makes you different from other Product Managers? Show how everything in your life has led to this role. This is what sets you apart. Explicitly link your past experiences to the job profile. Highlight specific skills and experiences that directly relate to the role's responsibilities and requirements. This not only affirms your suitability but also shows your understanding of the job.

Be Genuine:

What's the worst thing you can do when answering? Use the same old template you found online. The interviewer has heard similar responses from hundreds of candidates. They're waiting for someone to break the mold. Avoid delivering your introduction like a rehearsed script. Instead, speak naturally and let your genuine enthusiasm for the role and industry shine through. Authenticity makes a strong impression, showing you're not just knowledgeable, but also passionate and real. Interviewers love genuine conversations.

Don't Use Any Framework:

If you browse the internet and read other blogs, you'll find many articles suggesting frameworks. While frameworks can be useful tools in the right context, they're not ideal here. It's important to prepare, but avoid overly structured responses that can come across as stiff or contrived. Interviewers appreciate a fluid conversation more than a monologue. Your goal is to engage, not just inform. The introduction should feel more like a conversation, with the interviewer involved too.

Tell Me About Yourself, Example:

Below is an example introduction from an interview conducted via Zoom.

The above intro was a good example. The candidate could have added more details to the story, but it was a solid starting point. Adding humor was a nice touch.

Conclusion:

They say never judge a book by its cover. But let's face it—we humans do exactly that. Your first interaction with the interviewer will set the tone for the entire interview. Often, after hearing your introduction, the interviewer has already formed an opinion about your candidacy.

The "Tell me about yourself" question is your chance to humanize your application and leave a lasting first impression. Remember, this is more than just reciting facts about your career; it's about presenting a compelling story that aligns with the job you're pursuing. By keeping your introduction engaging, relevant, and authentic, you set the stage for a successful interview and move one step closer to landing that ideal Product Manager role.