This is probably the opening sentence in 95+% interviews. This question is a great ice breaker for the interviewer, allowing the interviewer to frame the next set of questions.
Any interviewee needs to have a well-rehearsed answer to this question. Many jobs require someone who can think on their feet or present ideas with crispness andclarity. This question provides employers with an early preview of your core skills, personality, and ability to respond to an unstructured question.
I would describe myself as highly curious and focused on learning, personal and professional, in all parts of life.
I look for the hardest problems to solve and where I can learn and develop the most in my professional life. I've worked on many different types of projects, including ads, virtual reality, commerce, and messaging. No matter what I'm working on, I'm very invested. I identify anyone I can learn from and problems that I care about and try to optimize every step of the process.
In my personal life, I spend a lot of time reading and usually have a focused area of interest for an extended period of time. For instance, last year, I read and researched public transportation systems and the future of transportation with emerging companies and autonomous vehicles. I found it fascinating, and it actually sparked a desire to change industries — which eventually led me to my last role and even helped prepare me for the switch.
Outside of reading and researching, I also love to travel, cook with friends, and spend a lot of time running and being physically active outdoors.
Why this answer worked well:
- Background and type of experience were clearly explained.
- The candidate showcased a self-starter mentality.
- Hobbies were framed to highlight benefits to professional life.
Answer Framework
This is something you'll be asked a lot at the beginning of an interview. So here are three tips that'll help you nail the opener.
Be succinct, honest, and engaging.
I call this the "SHE" formula. Resist the urge to give a detailed account of the last two decades of your career. Instead, the interviewer is looking for an answer that shows them you're qualified and can respond to an unstructured question.
Use the job description to prepare.
Reread what they want and highlight the most required skills that you have. For example, are they looking for someone who can solve problems or deal with challenging customers? Pick a few and brainstorm how you can describe yourself while showcasing your strengths for what they're seeking.
Tie your story to their needs.
People love a good tale, so weave in some personality. For example, maybe you fell in love with the hospitality industry because your grandparents ran a bed and breakfast. Connect your story back to the job, keep it short, and be truthful.
Tips
- Employers are looking for self-awareness and personal accountability.
- It's good, to be honest about what you're not great at.
- Share what you are doing to actively improve on this weakness.
Note: This content is adapted from an article originally published on LinkedIn.
FAQs
This question requires you to discuss your experience across the domains you have been into, your education, and your credentials. Summarize your experience as a Business Analyst across the domains, projects, methodologies, tools and techniques, and documentation; mention important responsibilities.
How to answer tell me about yourself for business analyst? ›
Tell me about yourself
Focus on highlighting any unique transferable skills, domain knowledge, or relevant experiences and how they align with the business analyst role.
What is the best answer to tell me about yourself on LinkedIn? ›
Key takeaways for answering "Tell me about yourself"
- Thoroughly review the job description.
- Identify 2-3 selling points aligned with the role.
- Use the STAR method to structure your answer.
- Quantify achievements and skills with numbers/stats.
- Keep it professional, on topic, and around 2-3 minutes long.
Keep in mind to stay present, clear and speak to the point about yourself. Add information about your education, other experiences and certifications. It is preferable to start with a thank you note, as this shows respect for the interviewers and the business. Always speak fluently, without long pauses in between.
What is the best answer for tell me about yourself sample answer? ›
“I'm known for being a detail-oriented, well-organized team player. I never miss deadlines, I'm a good communicator and I can juggle multiple tasks at once. In my performance reviews, my supervisor always notes that he appreciates my professionalism and enthusiasm for the job.
Why should we hire you as a business analyst? ›
For example, you can discuss your ability to work well in a team, your willingness to go the extra mile, your leadership skills, etc. Additionally, you should be able to express a genuine enthusiasm for the company and the role, as well as your desire to contribute to its success.
How to sell yourself as a business analyst? ›
Top Tips to Market Your Business Analysis Skills
- Obtain an industry certification. Obtaining certifications can help you stand out in the job market and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. ...
- Build a strong online presence. ...
- Participate in professional organizations. ...
- Network and build relationships.
Make sure to include your basic information, educational background, relevant skills or training that makes you a good fit for the position or the company, and some related details about your personality. Remember to keep it brief and avoid digressions, as it can backfire on your self-introduction.
How do I end the answer of tell me about yourself? ›
Highlight your previous work experience related to the job, powerful examples, and situations aligned with the job description requirements. End by talking about the future. Make it clear why you are choosing to apply for this company now and how your career path aligns with that.
How do you write a business analyst profile summary? ›
How to write a business analyst resume summary
- Create a resume summary section. Below your contact information, create a space for your resume summary at the top of your resume. ...
- Consider your most relevant qualifications. ...
- Review the job description. ...
- Summarize your qualifications.
Business analysis is a great career choice for anyone who enjoys thinking analytically and digging for evidence to answer questions and solve problems. If you're the kind of person who wants to find the answer whenever you hear an interesting question, business analysis will be right up your alley.
How do you describe a business analyst? ›
Business analysts (BAs) are responsible for bridging the gap between IT and the business using data analytics to assess processes, determine requirements, and deliver data-driven recommendations and reports to executives and stakeholders.
What is a good answer to what is your weakness? ›
So as a recap, the four answers that you can give when being asked, what are your greatest weaknesses, are, I focus too much on the details, I've got a hard time saying no sometimes, I've had trouble asking for help in the past, and I have a hard time letting go of a project.
How to answer the tell me about yourself question for data analyst? ›
"I have experience in data analysis and visualization, including proficiency in SQL and Tableau. In my previous role, I was able to identify trends and patterns that improved business processes and increased revenue. I'm excited to bring my analytical skills to a new company and continue to make data-driven decisions.
How to answer tell me about yourself for QA analyst? ›
In terms of my background, after completing my Bachelor of Engineering, I started working as a Quality Analyst graduate at Utopia Engineering. I assisted with three major ISO9001 projects with the QA Manager and created several process improvement and quality improvement manuals.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years interview question for business analyst? ›
The best way to approach this question is to think about where you realistically see yourself in the next five years and then articulate that in a way that is positive and shows your enthusiasm for the job. A hiring manager wants to know that your professional ambitions align with the goals and mission of the company.
How do I prepare for a business analyst interview? ›
How To Prepare For Your Business Analyst Interview
- Research the Company. One of the biggest and most common mistakes interviewees make is not doing their research. ...
- Know the Job Posting. ...
- Brush Up on Your Knowledge. ...
- Study Common Interview Questions. ...
- Prepare Your Questions.
