Ace the Interview: How to Answer 'Tell Me About Yourself' in Under Two Minutes

Job seekers often struggle with the classic interview question: "Tell me about yourself." Many overthink the answer, delivering lengthy, rambling responses that fail to impress. However, according to Lee Harding, a recruiter featured in a recent video, the key is brevity and storytelling. Harding advises keeping the answer concise—between 90 seconds and two minutes—and focusing on a compelling narrative rather than simply listing skills or accomplishments. He explains, "Most people overthink this question. It's just an icebreaker, a way for the interviewer to ease you into the interview." Harding's own career journey serves as an example of how to structure an effective answer. He briefly describes his unexpected entry into recruitment, his transition to marketing roles, and his eventual decision to co-found a business. This structured approach, he argues, is far more effective than a list of skills. By focusing on the narrative, candidates can create a more engaging and memorable introduction. Harding's advice is a valuable lesson for job seekers aiming to make a strong first impression.