Who are you?
That’s what most hiring decision-makers want to know when screening resumes or planning an interview. The question seems reasonable, even obvious, but during a job search, it’s easy to overlook. The answer to this question is what sets you apart from candidates who could have the same credentials and background. These are your soft skills.
One of the best ways to address the question is by writing a strong resume summary. A summary helps you focus on what makes you unique and will improve your resume and help you gather your thoughts before an interview, as well.
A couple of weeks ago I met with a group of job seekers — recent grads and those who had been in the workforce for a while. When I asked them to describe themselves, I heard: a loyal worker, team player, dedicated, good ethics, trustworthy and dependable. After each person identified what they thought employers wanted to hear, I pointed out they all basically were describing the same person.
Not once did anyone say what they really did that made them stand out from the group. The relied on frequently used phrases they turned to without much thought. Here’s the point: During a job search, interviewers want you to tell them who you are by using your own words not phrases that blend in with everyone else.
If you struggle with talking about yourself — and most people do — ask someone close to you to list three of your strengths. Their answers can help boost your confidence and give you a more-objective view of yourself.
Another exercise is to list the accomplishments you have been most proud of throughout your career (or school, if you’re just graduating). Then, when the employer asks, you can draw on that list. But don’t stop with listing the accomplishments. Include the actions you took that led to the success.
In today’s job market, you can’t rely on interviewers to draw answers out of you or to read between the lines on your resume to discover the hidden value you bring to a company. If you can’t verbalize what sets you apart from another candidate, you probably sound like everyone else.
Employers are interested in hearing how well you present your skills and what makes you unique and memorable.
Do you have any tips for creating a good answer to the “Who are you?” question.
