The most impressive answer I’ve ever received to Tell Me About Yourself

“Tell me about yourself” is a question you’re sure to be asked at every job interview.

As CEO of the world’s largest executive search firm, I have conducted thousands of interviews over the past 20 years. The best and most memorable answer I ever got to this question was, “I’ve climbed the highest mountains on every continent, including Everest.”

Of course, anyone who isn’t impressed by the man who conquered the Seven Peaks must have stupidly high standards. But the fact that this candidate achieved such an impressive feat was not what made her stand out from everyone else.

Too many people respond to “Tell me about yourself” by essentially giving a recital of their resume.

However, this candidate shared something that showed who she really is beyond a piece of paper: someone who is adventurous, curious, driven and disciplined. More importantly, it was clear that she had the ability to apply lessons learned from past experiences to new challenges.

But that’s not all. When I asked afterward about the first thought that went through her head upon reaching the summit of Everest, she didn’t wax philosophical or gulp about how she did something most of us can’t even contemplate.

Instead, she laughed and said, “How the hell am I going to get off?” This showed her ability to engage others with humor and humility.

Even then, I knew she was a highly skilled person anyone would want on their team – and the realization came through an exchange that lasted less than a minute.

You don’t have to be a world-class climber to stand out in a job interview. Here’s my advice on how to understand the most common interview question:

1. Take a risk to get personal.

Most people are so eager to show off all the work projects they’ve been involved in. Do not worry. There will be time for this: the interviewer has reviewed your CV and will ask you a lot about your experience.

“Tell me about yourself” is an invitation to share a very short anecdote or brief personal information that will allow the interviewer to learn something about your life outside of work.

2. Don’t be boring.

Everyone has something interesting to share about themselves. I’ve heard people talk about everything from being a world-class sushi chef to ice carving.

It’s also important to tell it in a way that makes you memorable: you completed your first triathlon, you compete in competitive sports, you served in the Peace Corps, you’re an accomplished cellist, you’re writing your first detective novel.

If the information demonstrates a unique aspect of you—and especially if you can relate it to what you can bring to your next job—then give it.

3. Showcase your purpose and passion.

Another way to think about the question is, “What gets you up every morning?” The guy also wants to know what your sense of passion and purpose is.

That volunteer work at a farm cooperative in South America, for example, shows that you have a global perspective. Running your first 10K shows you like a challenge.

It doesn’t matter how big or small the achievement is, as long as it shows that you are striving to improve. When people are motivated to contribute to something bigger than themselves – something with purpose and meaning – they get more satisfaction.

4. Be authentic.

Showing authenticity is one of the most important things you can do in a job interview.

Relax, be yourself and tell the truth. Don’t approach the interview like you’re auditioning for Broadway. It’s more than obvious when someone is trying to memorize their lines and “play the part”.

Also, if you blow up what you’ve done or outright make up a story about yourself, you will be exposed – and then everything you say about yourself will be called into question.

Gary Burnison is the CEO of Cornish Ferry, a global consulting firm that helps companies select and hire top talent. His latest book, a New York Times bestseller, “Lose your resume, get a job,” shares the kind of candid conversation no one will tell you. Follow him on LinkedIn here.

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