When preparing for an interview, one tricky question you might face is, “What should I know about you that’s not on your resume?” This question can catch many candidates off guard, but with the right approach, you can turn it into a chance to showcase your personality and unique qualities. Here’s a guide to help you craft a thoughtful response that connects with the job you’re applying for.
Key Takeaways
- Understand that interviewers want to know more about your personality.
- Focus on strengths or skills not listed on your resume.
- Share personal stories that relate to the job.
- Make sure your answer connects back to the company’s values.
- Practice your response to feel more confident.
Understanding the Purpose Behind the Question
Why Interviewers Ask This Question
When I hear the question, "What should I know about you that’s not on your resume?" I realize it’s not just a random query. Interviewers want to understand my personality and character. They’re looking for insights that go beyond my work history.
What They Hope to Learn About You
This question gives me a chance to share what drives me. It’s an opportunity to talk about my passions and interests outside of work. Interviewers want to see if I fit into their team and culture.
How This Question Differs from Others
Unlike other questions that focus on skills or experiences, this one is more personal. It allows me to highlight qualities that may not be obvious from my resume. Here’s what I think interviewers are really after:
- Personal qualities that show my character.
- Motivation for wanting the job.
- Unique experiences that shape who I am.
This question is a chance to connect on a deeper level, showing that I’m not just a list of qualifications.
By understanding the purpose behind this question, I can prepare a thoughtful response that highlights my strengths and fits the company’s culture. I want to make sure I present myself as a well-rounded candidate who is genuinely interested in the role.
Crafting a Thoughtful Response
Identifying Key Strengths
When I think about what to share, I focus on my unique strengths. These are qualities that might not shine through on my resume. For example, I might mention my creativity or my ability to work well under pressure. Here are some strengths to consider:
- Creativity
- Problem-solving skills
- Strong work ethic
Highlighting Soft Skills
Soft skills are just as important as hard skills. I often highlight my communication and teamwork abilities. These skills help me connect with others and work effectively in a team. Here are some soft skills to think about:
- Empathy
- Adaptability
- Leadership
Choosing Relevant Personal Stories
I find that sharing a personal story can make my answer memorable. I brainstorm a few examples and use the STAR method to formulate my answers. Having these examples prepared can ease anxiety in the moment and make me feel more confident. Here’s how I structure my story:
- Situation: Describe the context.
- Task: Explain what I needed to achieve.
- Action: Detail the steps I took.
- Result: Share the outcome of my actions.
By keeping these tips in mind, I can provide a focused and relevant response that highlights my strengths and contributes positively to my overall interview performance.
Connecting Your Answer to the Job
Aligning with Company Values
When I think about my answer, I always consider how it connects to the company’s values. For example, if the company emphasizes teamwork, I might share a story about a group project where I played a key role. This shows that I understand what the company stands for and that I can contribute positively.
Demonstrating Job-Specific Skills
I also focus on skills that are important for the job. If I’m applying for a marketing position, I might mention my experience with social media campaigns. This helps the interviewer see that I have the skills needed to succeed in the role. Here’s a quick list of skills to consider:
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Creativity
Showing Cultural Fit
Finally, I make sure to highlight how I fit into the company culture. I might mention my love for community service if the company values giving back. This helps the interviewer see that I’m not just a good candidate on paper, but also a good fit for the team.
In summary, connecting my answer to the job is about showing how my experiences and values align with the company’s goals.
By doing this, I can make a strong impression and show that I’m the right person for the job!
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Steering Clear of Red Flags
When answering the question, I make sure to avoid mentioning anything that could raise concerns. I focus on positive aspects of my experiences. Here are some things I steer clear of:
- Negative experiences: I don’t talk about past failures or conflicts. Instead, I highlight my growth and achievements.
- Personal information: I keep my answers professional and avoid sharing sensitive details that aren’t relevant to the job.
- Irrelevant details: I stay focused on information that adds value to my candidacy.
Keeping It Positive
I always aim to keep my tone upbeat. This helps create a good impression. Here’s what I do:
- Stay upbeat: I avoid speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues.
- Focus on strengths: I emphasize my skills and positive attributes.
- Be genuine: I share authentic stories that reflect my character.
Avoiding Repetition
I make sure not to repeat what’s already on my resume. This is my chance to share something new. Here’s how I do it:
- Highlight unique experiences: I choose stories that showcase my skills or interests not mentioned in my resume.
- Connect to the job: I relate my answer back to the position I’m applying for, showing how I can contribute.
- Practice beforehand: I rehearse my response to ensure clarity and conciseness.
By avoiding these common pitfalls, I can present myself in the best light possible during interviews. It’s all about showcasing my strengths and making a positive impression!
Examples of Strong Answers
Sharing Personal Accomplishments
One thing that’s not on my resume is my experience as a volunteer at a local animal shelter. I’ve helped care for over 100 animals and organized adoption events that found homes for many of them. This experience taught me the importance of compassion and teamwork. It also shows my commitment to making a difference in my community.
Discussing Volunteer Work
Another aspect of my life that isn’t on my resume is my involvement in a nonprofit focused on environmental conservation. I’ve led community clean-up events and organized tree-planting initiatives. This work reflects my dedication to sustainability and my ability to lead and inspire others. It’s a great way to show my values align with your company’s mission.
Highlighting Unique Hobbies
In addition to my professional skills, I have a passion for photography. I love capturing moments and telling stories through images. I’ve even exhibited my work in local galleries. This hobby has helped me develop an eye for detail and creativity, which I believe are valuable in any job.
Sharing personal stories can make you memorable. It’s a chance to show who you are beyond your resume.
By using these examples, I can connect my personal experiences to the skills and qualities that make me a great fit for the job. It’s all about showing my authentic self while aligning with what the employer values.
Tips for Preparation
Reviewing Your Resume Thoroughly
Before the interview, I make sure to go through my resume carefully. This helps me remember what I’ve written and prepares me to discuss my experiences. I focus on key achievements that I can expand on during the interview.
Practicing Your Answer
I practice my response to the question, "What should I know that’s not on your resume?" I keep it brief, aiming for about 30 seconds. This way, I can deliver my answer clearly and confidently. I also try to avoid repeating information already on my resume, as this is my chance to share something new.
Seeking Feedback from Others
I find it helpful to ask friends or mentors for feedback on my answer. They can provide insights on what stands out and what might need improvement. This feedback can help me refine my response and ensure it aligns with the job I’m applying for.
Remember, the goal is to present yourself as a strong candidate. By preparing well, I can show how I fit into the company and its culture.
| Action Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Review Resume | Go through your resume to recall key points. |
| Practice Answer | Keep it concise and relevant to the job. |
| Get Feedback | Ask others for their thoughts on your response. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do interviewers ask about things not on my resume?
Interviewers want to know more about you as a person, not just your job history. This helps them see if you would fit well in their team.
What should I include in my answer?
You can talk about your strengths, personal stories, or skills that are not listed on your resume but are still important.
How can I connect my answer to the job?
Make sure your answer shows how your experiences or skills relate to the job you’re applying for and the company’s values.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Don’t repeat what’s on your resume, stay positive, and steer clear of topics that might raise concerns.
Can you give me an example of a good answer?
Sure! You might say, ‘I volunteer at a local shelter, which taught me teamwork and empathy—skills I believe are important for this role.’
How should I prepare for this question?
Think about your experiences and choose a few that show your personality and strengths. Practice your answer so you feel confident.