It can sometimes be overstretching preparing for a job interview. One always wants to appear ably, not only physically but also in how they answer the questions asked. 

When preparing for an interview, some come up with a list of questions they guess might be asked, but there’s always that one question that can’t miss; the "Tell us about yourself” question. 

This is the most common yet one of the most complex questions in job interviews. It’s therefore important to master the right way of responding to it.

According to Charles kyamiza, an employee with the human resource department at Airtel Rwanda, when your employer asks you that question, they want you to market yourself- they want to know if you align for the position you are applying for.

As a person seeking for a job and ready to give your best, you might ask yourself, what part of you they want to know exactly, is it professional, is it my background, or do they want to know what I look forward to?

"It’s  vital to question that because you get to know someone’s goals, their level of confidence, team player skills, leadership skills, and so many other things based on what the interviewer is looking for,” Kyamiza explains.

Fortunately, there’s a way to prepare on what you can answer when you encounter that question in your job interview.  Career & Skills spoke to some employers who shared tips on how to nail this interview question. 

Here are some of them;

Do not make it personal: Most people tend to answer that question by talking about their background, hobby, age, family members and other personal stuff and they fail to mention what the interviewee wanted to hear.

Share your previous and current experience in line with the job position in question: You have to share your knowledge, especially that aligning with the job you are applying for, to make them know that side of your experience.

Use this simple formula

Past: speak of your past experiences and an impact you made in your community or at work.

Present: mention your current job and significant achievements you made recently. 

Future: shift to what your plans are and why you are interested in the job offer.

Do not recite your resume: Some people make the mistake of memorising their resume to answer that question, which they sometimes forget, and end up missing some crucial points.

Practice: Before you go to do your interview, practice answering that question. To avoid memorising the answers, speak as if you are programmed. Try practicing with your friends to get some feedback or maybe by yourself. With that, your solution will sound more confident and assertive as you give it.