In an interview, potential employers will often ask you to "Tell me a little bit about yourself." While this may seem like a simple question, it can be difficult to answer without sounding like you are repeating what is already on your resume. 

Follow these steps in order to answer this question effectively:

Practice, Practice, Practice

The "tell me a little bit about yourself" question usually comes at the beginning of the interview. Your answer will set the tone for the rest of the interview and has the potential to calm your nerves or make you more nervous. Do not wait for the interview, practicing beforehand can allow you the time and space to formulate the best answer possible using phrasing from the job description.

Have A Clear Understanding of The Job Description

When you are clear on what the company is looking for tailoring your answers to match their needs becomes less complicated. When preparing for the interview identify which of your previous experiences best displays how you would be a good fit for their role specifically. In order to formulate the best answer possible, combine your experiences with the phrases from the job description and keep your answer concise.

 Keep Your Answers Clear and Specific

As mentioned before, your answer should be specific and tailored to the job description, and it also highlights some of your key skills and experiences. If you are unsure of how to answer this question, it is always better to err on the side of caution and keep your answer brief and concise.

For example, let's say you are applying for a job as a data analyst. You might say something like: 

"I am currently working as a data analyst, and I have experience working with large data sets. I am able to identify trends and patterns in data and I am also able to communicate my findings clearly. I am confident that I can be an asset to your team."  

Overall, Answering the question "Tell me a little bit about yourself" is all about finding the right balance between listing your experiences and not repeating exactly what is written on your resume. It can be difficult to do but with careful consideration and forethought, you can craft an answer that will set you apart from other applicants.