How to Answer “Tell Me About Yourself” (and Actually Get the Job)

Erin Hatzikostas
Oct 16
2 min read

Let’s be honest: the dreaded “Tell me about yourself” question is the laziest interview question ever. Most interviewers throw it out there because they just ran from another meeting and have no idea what to ask you next.

But here’s the good news: their laziness = your golden opportunity. If you nail this question, you can literally win the job right there.

The secret? Authenticity.

Why Most People Bomb This Question

Most candidates answer with a résumé recap:

“Well, in 1994, I started in project management, then I moved into sales…”

Meanwhile, the interviewer is nodding politely while thinking about lunch. You’ve done nothing to captivate them, nothing to stand out, and certainly nothing to make them think: I need to hire this person.

That’s where authenticity at work comes in.

The Intriguing Intro Formula

Instead of boring them with your career timeline, try this formula. It’s backed by science and I’ve used it in keynotes, workshops, and even my own career:

👉 Humility Moment: Share a story about a time you failed, stumbled, or learned the hard way.

👉 Big Brag Moment: Pair it with a story about when you crushed it.

👉 What’s in It for Them: Connect your story to the job you’re interviewing for.

This combo creates what I call an Intriguing Intro—and it works because people relate to imperfection, but they also need to see your competence. Together, it’s unexpected, refreshing, and memorable.

Example: My Intriguing Intro

Here’s how I might answer:

“I started my career in the actuarial field. Over three years, I took seven actuarial exams—and failed all seven. What I learned was that simply studying harder and working longer wasn’t the formula for success. I bobbed and weaved into roles I was technically unqualified for, and eventually became CEO of a 1,000-person, nine-figure company. In just three years, we tripled earnings, increased employee engagement by 15%, and turned the business around. What I’ve learned is that success comes from connection and trust—authenticity in the workplace—not just grinding harder. And that’s how I plan to help you succeed if I take on this role.”

Mic drop.

Why It Works

It’s authentic leadership in action: showing humility and strength in the same breath.
It surprises the interviewer (they’re expecting a snooze-worthy résumé recap).
It makes you memorable. And in interviews, different is better than better.

Your Turn: Create Your Intriguing Intro

Here’s your homework:

Write down a few humility moments (they don’t even have to be work-related).
Write down a couple big “brag” moments.
Start smashing them together.

Experiment. Play with it. Try it out loud.

Because when you show up with your authentic self at work, you don’t just answer a question—you create a connection. And connections get you hired.

Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.