Struggling with the "100 Words About Yourself" Section? Here's What Recruiters Really Want

Hi all,

Before an interview, many companies ask candidates to fill out a form. Usually, there is a section that asks you to write about yourself in 100 or 150 words. I am confused about what is expected in this section - personal information, professional details (which are already in the CV), or something else. What does a recruiter want to read in this section? Please help.

Thanks and regards

Yes, Yasmin, you are right. With all these points, there are some more points to state in the same area.

1) Job-related achievements: This part should be supportive of our strengths. Every completed task should reflect our involvement internally, not be stated as "I am a hard worker, target-oriented," etc.

2) Knowledge development actions: Plans to improve related field knowledge as well. We can write in this area.

Regards, Khan
Hyderabad.

Greetings,

In addition to what Yasmin and MSKhan have mentioned, please do consider the following:

- Strategies for an introduction, if possible tailored for the role
- Target the three areas: Professional, Education, and personal details.
- Mention information that has been shared on the CV. Your CV would include your MBA with the date and marks scored. Mention how this program added value to your learning and how that learning would help in this new role. For example: Your MBA program required you to work on a project for recruitment in the same sector you have applied for this job. Frame this in a sentence.
- Keep it concise, let this be your one-minute trailer, so define it accordingly.

Wish you all the best!

Regards,
(Cite Contribution)

Treat this exactly the same as you would answer if the question was asked in an interview. The best way to answer a question like this, both orally and in writing, is to relate it specifically to the job you are applying for. In other words, use this as an opportunity to drive home your claim to the job. Talk about your skills and experience as they relate to the position. Nothing else is relevant. Don't discuss education, hobbies, or any other extraneous topics. Keep it strictly to the point. If the job description mentions problem solving, client service, and a high level of organizational skills, then use this opportunity to briefly discuss yourself in relation to them. You are still discussing YOURSELF but in terms that relate to the job. It also demonstrates to the employer that you have seriously considered the question.

It is exactly as John says. Do not repeat anything they can find in your CV. Apart from being redundant, it also wastes precious space in a short statement about yourself. Think about what makes you stand apart from the crowd. Your statement should answer the question: "Why you?"

Rani Innes Link Communications

The CV already has your personal information, etc. This column gives you an opportunity to add value to your CV by describing why you would be the ideal person for the role you are applying. You would need to highlight the reasons you find this job role attractive, how you can contribute, and your vision (where you expect to be). Everyone has a dream to reach a certain goal... how to make that dream a reality is the foundation to happiness.

You could emphasize your work-related or personal achievements that you have not mentioned in your resume.

Regards,
Kalpana