Tell Me About Something Not On Your Resume
When you’re asked to discuss something not on your resume, it can be challenging to determine what to say. However, this is an excellent opportunity to showcase your personal qualities and experiences that are not reflected in your resume. By doing so, you can provide a better picture of who you are as a person and how you can contribute to the company. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to answer the question, “Tell me about something not on your resume.”
Why This Question is Asked
Before diving into how to answer this question, it’s important to understand why interviewers ask it. This question is meant to assess your ability to articulate your personal qualities, interests, and experiences. It also allows the interviewer to gain insight into your character, values, and how you fit into the company culture. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for you to differentiate yourself from other candidates and showcase your unique skills and experiences.
How to Answer the Question
Discuss a Personal Experience
One way to answer this question is to discuss a personal experience that has shaped who you are today. This could be a significant life event, a challenging situation that you overcame, or a hobby that you’re passionate about. By sharing this experience, you can demonstrate your resilience, problem-solving skills, and ability to adapt to new situations. Additionally, it allows the interviewer to gain insight into your personality and how you approach challenges.
Talk About a Volunteer Experience
If you have volunteered in the past, this is an excellent opportunity to discuss your experience. Volunteering demonstrates your commitment to helping others and your willingness to give back to your community. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to showcase your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and communication skills. If you have volunteered for a specific cause, such as environmental conservation or social justice, this can also show your passion for a particular issue.
If you have achieved something outside of work, such as winning a sports competition or completing a marathon, this is an excellent opportunity to share it. This demonstrates your commitment to personal growth and your ability to set and achieve goals. Additionally, it shows that you have interests outside of work and can balance your personal and professional life effectively.
Discuss a Skill You’ve Developed
If you have developed a particular skill outside of work, such as learning a new language or mastering a musical instrument, this is an excellent opportunity to share it. This demonstrates your dedication to self-improvement and your ability to learn new things. Additionally, it shows that you have a diverse skill set and can bring a unique perspective to the company.
Conclusion
When answering the question, “Tell me about something not on your resume,” it’s essential to choose a response that showcases your personality, interests, and values. By doing so, you can differentiate yourself from other candidates and demonstrate your unique skills and experiences. Remember to keep your response relevant to the company and the position you’re applying for, and use specific examples to illustrate your points.
FAQs
A: Yes, you can discuss a personal experience that is not related to work. However, make sure to tie it back to the company and the position you’re applying for. For example, if you discuss a hobby, explain how it has helped you develop skills that are relevant to the job.
Q: Should I discuss a negative experience?
A: It’s best to avoid discussing negative experiences, as this can reflect poorly on you. Instead, focus on positive experiences that demonstrate your strengths and abilities.
Q: Can I discuss a career goal that is not reflected on my resume?
A: Yes, you can discuss a career goal that is not reflected on your resume. However, make sure that it aligns with the company and the position you’re applying for. Additionally, explain how you plan to achieve this goal and how it will benefit the company.
Sarah Thompson
Sarah Thompson is a career development expert with a passion for helping individuals achieve their professional goals. With over a decade of experience in the field, Sarah specializes in providing practical advice and guidance on job search strategies, cover letters, resumes, and interview techniques. She believes in empowering job seekers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the competitive job market successfully.