50 Unique Ways to Answer ‘Tell Me Something Interesting About Yourself’

“Tell me something interesting about yourself.” It looks similar to the common interview question that interviewers ask – “Tell me about yourself”. But there is a subtle difference between both of them.

This question pops up in almost every interview, doesn’t it? It sounds simple, yet it often leaves us scrambling through our memories, searching for that one nugget that will make us stand out. You might wonder, “What exactly are interviewers looking for? Do I even have anything interesting to say about myself?”

Whether you’re someone with a list of unusual hobbies and experiences or someone who feels your life is pretty ordinary, this question is your moment to shine. But how?

This article is your guide to crafting an answer that not only captures attention but also showcases your unique qualities, even if you think you don’t have any.

We’re here to debunk the myth that only extraordinary adventures or rare talents make for interesting answers. Instead, we’ll show you how everyday experiences, personal insights, and even simple hobbies can paint a compelling picture of who you are. And for those with a trove of intriguing stories, we’ll help you pick the one that aligns best with your professional aspirations.

So, let’s dive in and discover how to turn this often daunting question into an opportunity to make a memorable impression in your next interview.

Decoding the Interviewer’s Mind: What Are They Really Asking?

When an interviewer asks, “Tell me something interesting about yourself,” what are they trying to uncover? It’s not just about filling the silence or making small talk. This question is a golden opportunity for them to peek into your world beyond the resume.

Here’s what interviewers really look for:

• A Glimpse of Your Personality: Beyond your professional qualifications, interviewers are curious about the person behind the achievements. Are you enthusiastic, thoughtful, creative? Your answer can subtly showcase these traits.
• Your Ability to Think on Your Feet: This open-ended question tests how well you can think spontaneously. Can you come up with a concise, engaging answer on the spot? It’s a skill that’s valued in almost every job.
• How You Fit the Company Culture: Every company has its own vibe and values. Your response can hint at whether you’ll blend well with their team or stick out like a sore thumb.
• Unique Skills or Experiences: Maybe you’re a coding whiz who also runs marathons. Or a marketer with a passion for documentary filmmaking. These tidbits can make you more memorable and highlight diverse skills.
• Creativity and Originality: Interviewers love to see how candidates can turn a common question into an opportunity to surprise or delight them with an answer they haven’t heard a thousand times before.

Your answer to this question is like a brief window into your world. It’s not just about being interesting; it’s about showing how your unique blend of experiences, your interests, and personality make you the right fit for the role and the company.

Remember, this isn’t just about impressing the interviewer. It’s about finding a workplace where your uniqueness is valued and celebrated. In the next sections, we’ll explore how to craft answers that are both authentic and strategic, ensuring you leave a lasting impression.

Crafting the Perfect Response to “Tell me something interesting about yourself”: Tips to Stand Out

Now that we know what interviewers are looking for, let’s talk about how to craft an answer that hits the mark. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Authenticity is Key: Be Yourself
  • Why It Matters: Authenticity creates a genuine connection. People can usually tell if you’re not being yourself, and that can be a red flag.
  • How to Do It: Share something true to you. It doesn’t have to be extraordinary; even simple things can be interesting if they’re real.
• Align Your Answer with the Job
  • Why It Matters: Linking your interesting fact to the job shows that you’re not just interesting but also relevant.
  • How to Do It: Think about aspects of your personality or background that relate to the job. Love problem-solving and applying for a tech job? Maybe talk about how you enjoy puzzles or brain teasers.
• Maintain Professionalism
  • Why It Matters: While it’s great to be personal, remember it’s still a professional setting.
  • How to Do It: Avoid overly personal topics or anything controversial. Stick to topics that you’d be comfortable discussing in a diverse workplace.
• Keep It Brief and Engaging
  • Why It Matters: Long stories can lose your audience. A concise, engaging answer shows that you value their time and can communicate effectively.
  • How to Do It: Practice a short, crisp version of your story. Aim for a response that takes no longer than a minute to share.

Your response to this question is like a quick sketch of who you are. It doesn’t need to be a detailed portrait. Just a few strokes that reveal something interesting and memorable about you, while showing that you’re a great fit for the role and the company culture.

50+ Sample Answers for ‘Tell Me Something Interesting About Yourself’

Remember that with these sample answers, we want to unlock your imagination to craft your own unique answers. Look at them as ideas you can use to find out how you can talk about the things that you find interesting about youself.

For Those with Obvious Interesting Traits

1. Hobbies That Align with the Job Role:

1. Tech Enthusiast Applying to IT: “I build custom PCs in my free time, which has deepened my understanding of hardware and software compatibility.”
2. Marketing Role Seeker: “I run a food blog where I experiment with digital marketing strategies to increase my audience.”
3. Aspiring Graphic Designer: “I create digital illustrations inspired by different cultures, which helps me in understanding diverse design perspectives.”
4. Future Educator: “I volunteer as a chess instructor for children, which has honed my skills in making complex ideas accessible.”
5. Finance Professional: “Investing in the stock market is a hobby of mine. It keeps me updated on economic trends and sharpens my analytical skills.”
6. Healthcare Worker: “I practice yoga regularly, which helps me maintain focus and compassion in my patient care.”
7. Engineering Candidate: “I enjoy building model airplanes, which has improved my attention to detail and understanding of aerodynamics.”
8. Aspiring Chef: “I experiment with fusion cuisine, blending flavors from different cultures, which expands my culinary creativity.”
9. Human Resources Professional: “I’m involved in community theater, which has enhanced my communication skills and ability to work with diverse teams.”
10. Environmental Scientist: “I participate in local river clean-up efforts, demonstrating my commitment to environmental conservation.”

2. Unique Skills or Talents:

1. Multilingual: “I speak four languages fluently, which helps me communicate effectively in diverse international teams.”
2. Musician: “I play the violin in a local orchestra, which has taught me the importance of harmony and teamwork.”
3. Amateur Astronomer: “Stargazing is my passion. It’s taught me patience and the ability to focus on minute details.”
4. Stand-up Comedian: “Performing stand-up comedy has sharpened my public speaking skills and ability to think quickly on my feet.”
5. Marathon Runner: “Running marathons has taught me the value of endurance and setting long-term goals.”
6. Chess Champion: “Competing in chess tournaments has enhanced my strategic thinking and decision-making skills.”
7. Blogger: “Writing a personal blog has honed my writing skills and ability to engage a digital audience.”
8. Photographer: “Photography is a hobby of mine, emphasizing my eye for detail and appreciation for aesthetics.”
9. Podcast Host: “Hosting a podcast on tech trends has kept me informed and improved my communication skills.”
10. DIY Enthusiast: “I love doing DIY projects around the house, which has developed my problem-solving skills and creativity.”

Remarkable Achievements or Awards:

1. Academic Excellence: “I was the valedictorian of my graduating class, which taught me the value of hard work and dedication.”
2. Innovation Award: “I received an innovation award for developing a new software tool that improved efficiency in my previous job.”
3. Sales Achievement: “I led my team to achieve the highest sales record in our company’s history, demonstrating my leadership and strategic planning skills.”
4. Fitness Milestone: “I completed a triathlon, which was a testament to my commitment, perseverance, and time management skills.”
5. Art Competition Winner: “My artwork won a state-level competition, highlighting my creativity and ability to think outside the box.”
6. Volunteer of the Year: “I was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year for my work with a local non-profit, showing my commitment to community service.”
7. Scholarship Recipient: “I earned a full scholarship for my master’s program, which reflects my academic abilities and drive to excel.”
8. Public Speaking Award: “I won a national public speaking contest, which has greatly enhanced my communication and presentation skills.”
9. Tech Hackathon Winner: “My team won a hackathon for developing an innovative mobile app, demonstrating my technical skills and ability to work under pressure.”
10. Leadership in Professional Organization: “I served as the president of a professional association, which improved my leadership skills and industry knowledge.”

Involvement in Notable Projects or Volunteer Work:

1. Community Development Project: “I coordinated a community development project, improving local facilities and fostering community engagement.”
2. Environmental Conservation Effort: “I was part of a team that developed a sustainable urban gardening project, contributing to environmental conservation and community health.”
3. Educational Program for Underprivileged Kids: “I volunteered to teach computer skills to underprivileged children, helping bridge the digital divide.”
4. Fundraising Campaign Leader: “I led a fundraising campaign for cancer research, demonstrating my organizational skills and commitment to a cause.”
5. Healthcare Volunteer Overseas: “I volunteered in a healthcare program in a developing country, gaining unique insights into global health issues.”
6. Cultural Festival Organizer: “I organized a cultural festival that celebrated diversity and inclusivity in our community.”
7. Wildlife Conservation Project: “I participated in a wildlife conservation project, which involved tracking and protecting endangered species.”
8. Mentorship Program for Young Professionals: “I mentored young professionals in my field, helping them develop their careers and expand their network.”
9. Collaborative Art Installation: “I collaborated on a large-scale art installation that was featured in a major city event, showcasing my teamwork and artistic skills.”
10. Building Homes for the Homeless: “I was involved in building homes for homeless families, which was a deeply rewarding experience that taught me a lot about empathy and teamwork.”

Interesting Travel Experiences Relating to Personal Growth:

1. Cultural Immersion in Japan: “Living in Japan for a year taught me adaptability and deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity.”
2. Volunteering in South America: “Volunteering in rural communities in South America helped me develop a global perspective and improved my Spanish fluency.”
3. Backpacking Across Europe: “Backpacking across Europe honed my planning skills and ability to navigate unexpected situations.”
4. Teaching English in Southeast Asia: “I spent a summer teaching English in Vietnam, which was a lesson in patience and communication across language barriers.”
5. Wildlife Expedition in Africa: “Joining a wildlife conservation expedition in Kenya broadened my understanding of environmental issues and teamwork.”
6. Study Abroad in Italy: “Studying abroad in Italy fueled my passion for art history and honed my research skills.”
7. Solo Travel in New Zealand: “Solo traveling in New Zealand taught me self-reliance and the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone.”
8. Culinary Exploration in India: “Exploring the diverse culinary landscapes of India enhanced my adaptability and taste for adventure.”
9. Hiking the Appalachian Trail: “Completing a section of the Appalachian Trail was a test of my endurance and determination.”
10. Historical Tour in Egypt: “Exploring Egypt’s ancient sites deepened my interest in history and archeology, alongside developing my organizational skills.”

For Those Who Feel They Have Nothing Unique

Daily Routines or Habits That Demonstrate Discipline or Creativity:

1. Morning Meditation: “Starting my day with meditation has improved my focus and stress management, essential for high-pressure environments.”
2. Journaling: “I maintain a daily journal, which enhances my written communication skills and helps in organizing my thoughts.”
3. Fitness Regimen: “Following a strict fitness regimen demonstrated my commitment to health and discipline.”
4. Reading Daily: “I make it a point to read daily, which keeps me informed and helps in my continuous learning.”
5. Learning a New Language: “I spend time each day learning a new language, showcasing my dedication to personal growth and global communication.”
6. Meal Prepping: “Weekly meal prepping has honed my planning and organizational skills.”
7. DIY Projects: “Engaging in DIY home projects reflects my creativity and problem-solving abilities.”
8. Playing a Musical Instrument: “Practicing the guitar daily has improved my patience and ability to focus on details.”
9. Gardening: “My routine in gardening demonstrates my nurturing qualities and attention to detail.”
10. Creative Writing: “I dedicate time to creative writing, which has enhanced my imagination and storytelling skills.”

Unusual Ways of Solving Common Problems:

1. Creative Storage Solutions: “In my small apartment, I designed a multi-functional furniture piece that maximized space and efficiency.”
2. Streamlining Everyday Tasks: “I developed a personal system to automate bill payments and manage finances more efficiently.”
3. Eco-friendly Transportation: “To reduce my carbon footprint, I built an electric bike from recycled parts for my daily commute.”
4. Improvised Home Repairs: “When my heater broke, I ingeniously used household items to temporarily fix it, demonstrating resourcefulness.”
5. Unique Fundraising Strategy: “I organized a virtual reality gaming event to fundraise for a local charity, combining fun and philanthropy.”
6. Enhancing Team Communication: “I implemented a ‘silent meeting’ concept to improve focus and efficiency in team discussions.”
7. Solving Tech Glitches Creatively: “I devised a workaround for a recurring software issue at work, saving time and reducing frustration.”
8. Revamping Recipes: “I experiment with substituting uncommon ingredients in recipes, which often leads to healthier and tastier meals.”
9. DIY Clothing Repairs: “I taught myself basic tailoring to mend and modify my own clothes, blending creativity with practicality.”
10. Optimizing Workspace: “I rearranged my office workspace using feng shui principles, resulting in improved energy and productivity.”

Small Achievements and What They Learned from Them:

1. First 5K Run: “Completing my first 5K taught me about setting realistic goals and the satisfaction of achieving them.”
2. Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: “I volunteered for a small public speaking role, which helped me overcome my fear and boosted my confidence.”
3. Learning Basic Coding: “I took an online course to learn basic coding, which taught me the importance of continuous learning in today’s tech-driven world.”
4. Starting a Book Club: “Organizing a local book club helped me develop leadership skills and fostered a sense of community.”
5. Growing a Vegetable Garden: “Successfully growing my first vegetable garden taught me patience and the rewards of nurturing something from scratch.”
6. Self-taught Guitar Playing: “Learning to play the guitar on my own showed me the value of self-discipline and practice.”
7. Organizing a Family Reunion: “Planning a large family reunion improved my event planning skills and attention to detail.”
8. Reducing Personal Waste: “I challenged myself to reduce personal waste, learning a lot about sustainability and environmental responsibility.”
9. Budget Travel Experience: “Planning a budget-friendly trip taught me how to be resourceful and make the most of limited resources.”
10. Mastering a Difficult Recipe: “Perfecting a complex recipe after several attempts taught me perseverance and the joy of mastering a new skill.”

Books, Podcasts, or Events That Significantly Influenced You:

1. Inspirational Book: “Reading ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Viktor Frankl changed my perspective on facing challenges and finding purpose.”
2. Motivational Podcast: “Listening to the ‘How I Built This’ podcast has inspired me to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation in my work.”
3. Life-Changing Seminar: “Attending a leadership seminar by Simon Sinek motivated me to pursue a career in team management and development.”
4. Historical Event: “Watching the Olympic Games as a child sparked my interest in sports psychology and teamwork.”
5. Science Fiction Novel: “Isaac Asimov’s ‘Foundation’ series ignited my passion for technology and its potential to shape the future.”
6. Documentary Film: “The documentary ‘The Social Dilemma’ influenced my approach to ethical considerations in digital marketing.”
7. Influential Ted Talk: “Brené Brown’s talk on vulnerability helped me embrace authenticity in my personal and professional life.”
8. Cultural Festival: “Participating in a cultural exchange festival broadened my understanding of global diversity and cooperation.”
9. Educational Course: “Completing a course on sustainable business practices shifted my focus towards environmentally conscious business strategies.”
10. Biographical Book: “Reading the biography of Marie Curie inspired me to persevere in my scientific research despite obstacles.”

Personal Anecdotes That Showcase Character and Values:

1. Overcoming Adversity: “Battling and overcoming a serious illness taught me resilience and the value of health in life and work.”
2. Community Service Experience: “Organizing a community clean-up drive showed me the importance of teamwork and environmental responsibility.”
3. Family Business Background: “Growing up helping in my family’s business instilled in me a strong work ethic and understanding of business fundamentals.”
4. Creative Problem Solving: “I once solved a major technical issue at an event by improvising with available resources, which highlights my problem-solving skills.”
5. Supporting a Cause: “Participating in a charity run for mental health awareness reflects my commitment to community welfare and physical fitness.”
6. Learning from Failure: “A failed startup attempt in college taught me valuable lessons about risk assessment and business planning.”
7. Cultural Exchange Experience: “Hosting an exchange student from another country helped me develop cross-cultural communication skills and adaptability.”
8. Balancing Work and Study: “Working part-time while pursuing my degree taught me time management and the importance of prioritizing tasks.”
9. Mentoring a Younger Colleague: “Mentoring a junior in my previous job was rewarding and honed my leadership and teaching abilities.”
10. Personal Travel Challenge: “Navigating a solo trip to a non-English speaking country improved my resourcefulness and language skills.”

Customizing Your Answer for Different Industries

Tech Industry

• Hobbies/Skills: “In my free time, I develop small apps that solve everyday problems, demonstrating my passion for technology and problem-solving.”
• Achievements: “I won a coding hackathon last year, which was an exhilarating experience that honed my programming skills and collaborative abilities.”
• Travel Experience: “Attending tech conferences globally has expanded my industry knowledge and networking skills.”

Healthcare

• Hobbies/Skills: “I volunteer at a local clinic on weekends. This experience has deepened my empathy and understanding of patient care.”
• Achievements: “I recently completed additional certification in holistic health approaches, broadening my healthcare expertise.”
• Travel Experience: “Participating in a medical mission in a rural area taught me how to provide care in challenging environments.”

Education

• Hobbies/Skills: “I create educational content for a YouTube channel, which has improved my ability to communicate complex ideas simply.”
• Achievements: “I spearheaded a literacy program in my community, which improved local children’s reading skills significantly.”
• Travel Experience: “Teaching English abroad helped me develop innovative teaching strategies and understand diverse learning needs.”

Finance

• Hobbies/Skills: “I enjoy analyzing the stock market trends in my spare time, applying these insights to manage my personal investments.”
• Achievements: “I led a project that improved financial efficiency in my previous role, resulting in a 15% reduction in costs.”
• Travel Experience: “Exploring different countries has given me a unique perspective on global economic trends and diversification strategies.”

General Tips for Tailoring Your Answer:

• Connect to Industry Needs: Reflect on what skills are prized in your industry (e.g., creativity in marketing, analytical skills in finance) and highlight experiences that showcase these.
• Use Industry Language: Incorporate terminology and concepts familiar to your industry to demonstrate your knowledge and fit.
• Relate to Current Trends: If possible, link your experiences or achievements to current trends or challenges in the industry to show that you’re up-to-date and proactive.

Remember, the key is to show not just that you’re interesting, but that your unique qualities and experiences make you an ideal fit for the industry you’re targeting.

Navigating the Do’s and Don’ts

Crafting the perfect answer to “Tell me something interesting about yourself” can be a balancing act. Here’s a quick guide to help you stay on track:

Do’s:

• Be Concise: Keep your answer short and sweet. Aim for a response that’s no longer than a minute.
• Stay Relevant: Choose an example that highlights skills or qualities relevant to the job or industry.
• Be Prepared: Think about this question beforehand and have a couple of go-to responses ready.
• Show Enthusiasm: Your excitement about your interests can be contagious and leave a positive impression.
• Be Honest: Authenticity resonates more than an exaggerated story. Stick to truths that reflect your personality and values.

Don’ts:

• Avoid Oversharing: Keep personal life details appropriate. Remember, it’s a professional interview.
• Don’t Be Negative: Even if discussing a challenge, focus on what you learned or how you grew from the experience.
• Steer Clear of Clichés: Try to avoid generic responses like “I’m a hard worker.” Be more specific and personal.
• Don’t Undermine Yourself: Avoid phrases like “This might not be interesting, but…” Be confident in what you share.
• Avoid Irrelevance: Don’t pick a hobby or story that has no connection to the job or doesn’t showcase a useful skill or trait.

Remember, this question is as much about how you answer as what you answer. A well-crafted response can turn this simple inquiry into a standout moment in your interview.

As we wrap up, remember that every interview is a chance to showcase not just your skills and experience, but also who you are as a person. “Tell me something interesting about yourself” is more than a question; it’s an invitation to share a piece of your journey. Whether it’s a hobby, a travel experience, or a daily habit, your unique story can make a lasting impression.

Don’t underestimate the power of your individual experiences. Embrace them, share them confidently, and watch how they can transform a routine interview into an engaging conversation. After all, it’s your distinct narrative that sets you apart in a sea of candidates. Go ahead and tell your story – the world is waiting to hear it.