Interview Time: How Would You Describe Yourself?
Adding a new employee to a behavioral health team is a very big deal, so potential employers want to learn as much about you as possible. This means you’ll likely be asked several challenging questions like “How would you describe yourself?”
At first glance, this might not look too difficult, but as soon as you start to respond in this setting, you’ll probably find yourself a bit stumped.
Here’s some advice to help you craft a response that clearly relays who you are in relation to the position.
Focus on the Job
You’re many different things to many different people. However, for the purposes of this interview, it’s best to only focus on the aspects of your personality relative to the job.
For example, in social settings, you might describe yourself as an animal lover or someone who is extremely passionate about sports, but if this doesn’t relate to the job, it doesn’t need to be brought up in the interview. Keeping the focus on the position shows the interviewer you understand the kind of candidate they need and maximizes the time you have to sell yourself.
Highlight Strengths Noted in the Job Description
When crafting a response to this question, it can be hard to know where to start. Carefully comb through the job description and note the core competencies and qualities sought in the ideal candidate. Then make a list of your top abilities and see where they overlap. The results will guide your response to this question because it will allow you to describe yourself in a manner that truly fits the job.
Give Specific Examples
Anyone can depict themselves in a certain manner, but that alone only holds so much weight. Back your claims up by providing specific examples that highlight the abilities you’re touting.
For example, if you describe yourself as a team player who works well with others, tell a story about the time you took a few projects off an overworked colleague’s plate. You might also mention regularly taking on extra shifts or trying your best to swap shifts with co-workers when requested. This shows you’re willing to help others and take one for the team when possible.
Be Honest
No doubt, you want to describe yourself in a manner that makes you look great. Just don’t get carried away and elaborate your response in a manner that really stretches the truth. If you’re the right person for the job, you won’t need to turn yourself into someone you’re not.
Lying will catch up with you, so focus on characteristics you really have. Think of it this way — if you can’t come up with a truthful way to describe yourself as it relates to the job, it’s probably not right for you anyway.
Finding a job that’s both a fit for your skills and personality can be a challenge, so allow a staffing expert to guide your search. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you find your next behavioral health position, contact us today at (513) 651-9500 or by email at [email protected].