Take One, Action
As I continue with this investigation, it is my aim that this question will not be so dreadful in the future. If you missed the previous post regarding this topic please click on the links following this to catch up on this topic. This current post is going to touch on two things that you should think about when faced with this question and that is the do’s and dont’s.
What not to do
- Answer by asking what do you want to know
- on the surface responding this way may seem like a good idea however, some people ask this question because they may be using it as an icebreaker therefore you responding this way may put that other person on the spot
- just like in a job interview you wouldn’t want to do this to a potential employer so in the same way you don’t want to do that to your date
- Recapping your life story or personal matters
- usually when someone asks you to tell them about yourself it is usually on a first date and a first date would not be an appropriate time for you to tell your life story or personal matters.
- in a job interview you would not go into details about your life or personal matters neither should you on a date
What to do
- Focus on what most interests the interviewer
- On a job interview you usually mention things the interviewer is looking for that you posses. On an date may you have the opportunity to do the same thing such as mentioning you like to cook if you know your date likes to eat however I would suggest that you instead be observant and look to see if your date is interested in what you are saying and if so then you know you are on the right path.
- Highlight your most important accomplishments
- On a job interview you take the opportunity to mention your accomplishments that qualifies you to be a good asset to the company. On a date you may have the opportunity to do the same thing however you may want to focus on things that are important to you rather than your accomplishments.
I’m sure there are many more do’s and don’ts you would think about for a job interview just as there are many do’s and don’ts for a date but this should help you (and me) get started as we learn to be comfortable in answering this question on a date.
What are some things that you suggest that one should do or don't do?
Blog post that triggered this investigation Job Interview
Tell Me About Yourself - The Dreaded Question Part One: The Interview
Tell Me About Yourself - The Dreaded Question Part Two: Stand Like the Brave
Tell Me About Yourself - The Dreaded Question Part Three: Don't Ask me
~FA
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In a job interview, when answering this question, I find that it's good to give a little background when mentioning a skill or personal characteristic. So if you say, 'I'm a great team-player', it would be good if you give a past example of when you had to show this quality. I feel like this is the same thing on a date; It would be nice if instead of just saying "I'm outgoing" you could give background and say "Because I'm outgoing I like to go many 'approach2link functions'" ;) .. Giving background into your qualities makes one more interesting, and it helps the person to understand more about the one answering the question. Also, it helps to give more depth to the conversation =)
ReplyDeleteLove this elaboration :)
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