TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
Bad Answer : “…My name is Clarita Juma, I was born in 1998 and I grew up with my parents and siblings in Ngara, Nairobi. I started my primary school at Ngara Primary School, thereafter I was selected to Ngara Girls Secondary School. After I passed my KCSE secondary school with 70 points, I was selected to join Kenyatta University to pursue Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Public Health. After I graduated, I was employed by Neema Health Hospital as a Nursing Officer. I am a hard worker and a quick learner”
The above response is too personal, and lacks focus on relevant professional skills, experience and qualifications.
It is important to note that the employers seek to assess the following when they ask the above question:
•Assess the candidate’s communication skills.
•Assess the candidate’s confidence.
•Assess the candidate’s ability to articulate their thoughts effectively.
•Determine if the candidate’s background and experience align with the requirements of the position.
It is important to note that this question also acts as an icebreaker during the job interview before the interviewers dive into more technical questions.
In your response, be sure to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the position.
Keep your answer concise and focused on how you can add value to the company-DO NOT TAKE MORE THAN 2 MINUTES!!!
For example, you can focus on:
•Professional skills (Emphasis should be paid on how your skills align with the position you are applying for)
•Professional experience (Focus on highlighting your work experience that aligns with the role you are applying for)
•Education qualifications (If you are applying for role that requires a degree, the focus should be on the degree)
•Accomplishments (what you have achieved in your previous and current role)
Say this instead:
HERE IS A SAMPLE ANSWER:
”…My name is Clarita Juma. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Public Health from Kenyatta University. At Neema Health Hospital, I gained extensive experience in patient care, health education, and clinical management as a Nursing Officer. I am passionate about community health and am eager to apply my skills and expertise to your team. I am known for being dedicated, a quick learner, and a hard worker.”