One word self description

Each of us is a complex human being. We have our strengths and weaknesses, our past, dream,s our friends and role models. Each of us is unique, and it may take more than 1,000 words to give at least a somehow accurate description of any person in the world. Still, it would be only somehow accurate. 

What to do, however, when hiring managers ask you to describe yourself with the help of one word only? That’s really a tricky situation. They typically expect to hear your greatest strength, or something that is really characteristic for you, something that makes you stand out from the other job applicants in the hiring process. But it’s a silly question indeed, because one word does never tell the entire story…

Silly or not, you may get this question in your interview. And you should not remain silent, or think for five minutes before you pick the one word that describes you better than anything else. I put together a list of 100 words, each of them telling something about a person, and divided it to ten groups. Let’s see if you can find your winner in my selection.

100 sample answers to “Describe yourself in one word” interview question

• Ambitious, bold, creative, positive, passionate, empathic, transparent, honest, resilient, humble.
• Leader, follower, manager, coach, technician, engineer, teacher, winner, entertainer, entrepreneur.
• Indescribable, unique, me, nobody, complicated, complex, human, mother, father, loner.
• Athlete, artist, musician, painter, player, gamer, builder, destroyer, gunner, victim.
• Dreamer, idealist, philosopher, realist, optimist, pessimist, poet, soul, brain, heart.
• Tall, young, old, experienced, inexperienced, learner, pupil, short, healthy, fit.
• Crazy, unpredictable, superhero, lunatic, demon, God, devil, archangel, joker, ace.
• Responsible, detail-oriented, skilled, flexible, elaborate, adaptable, sociable, listener, talker, alive.
• Nervous, confident, brilliant, forgiving, unprepared, prepared, strong, excited, happy, undecided.
• Lost, unemployed, thriving, struggling, hoping, praying, trying, dreaming, screaming, nothing.

What you pick means a lot to you–either in good or bad way

Be careful about your choice. It indicates (at least in the eyes of the interviewers) what matters the most to you. Let me give you a few examples. If you pick a role, or a name of a profession you have or field you studies (manager, engineer, teacher, programmer, etc), it shows that work is really important to you, that it is what you think about the most, and perhaps even live for. Not a bad choice for most hiring managers.

If you pick a character ability–some strength (empathic, responsible, honest, etc), it suggest that you built your identity around this ability, and consider it the greatest asset you can offer to your next employer. This can work work, especially if you pick something fitting to the job description, or for the the company culture.

Is it okay to pick a weakness?

Maybe you feel like a victim, or really unlucky in your life. Or you are just a dreamer, still waiting for your opportunity to realize your ambitions. Or you feel lonely, deserted, or almost a nobody.

I have complete understanding for your feelings. Who says that he never experienced something similar is lying. All of us have some bad days. However, you should focus on something positive in a job interview. Nobody wants to hire an employee who will walk around the office with their head bent, pitting themselves, or even seeding negativity in their colleagues.

Referring to your emotion or condition when it comes to interviewing is another interesting idea

Why not saying that you are excited, or enthusiastic? It is always good if the hiring managers get an impression that the interview is important to you, that you are happy to be where you are. You can describe these feelings when they ask you to describe yourself in one word.

After all, our emotions change, so do our roles in life. Hence it is fine to pick something fleeting, something that describes who you are, or how you feel, in the exact moment when they ask the question. If the interview isn’t going well, or you flopped some questions, you can even pick unprepared, or nervous for your answer.

Experiment with unconventional answers when you have nothing to lose

Interview is a sales talk, and you should try to tell them something that makes a good impression, that show you in the best possible light. However, if the “sales talk” hasn’t been going well up to this point, if you feel that your chances are getting slimmer with each next question, you can try your luck with something unconventional, or even bizarre.

When you find yourself in a situation when you have nothing to lose, why not characterize yourself as crazy, alive, or as an ace, an idealist, or even as a soul? Such a choice allows for a lot of options when they ask you to elaborate on your answer.

And even if they do not ask you to elaborate on your strange choice, it is definitely something they will remember long time after the end of your interview. It’s better when they remember you in any association, than when they forget you five minutes after the end of your interview, perhaps because you told them the same things everyone else did…

If they give you a chance, you should elaborate on your answer

One word is not really enough, but initially that’s what you should say. Because it’s also a test of your ability to follow instructions and orders, so one word is one word, and if you say three or opt for an entire sentence, you are losing points in this interview.

However, if there’s a moment of silence once you tell your word, you may ask whether they do not want you to elaborate on your characteristic, on the one word you picked. And that’s the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, a chance to explain how the characteristic will help you in your new job, or why the one is so important, so special to you, that you picked it from the huge selection of words that characterize your character, life, and attitude…

Ready to answer this one? I hope so! Check also sample answers to other tricky interview questions:

• Does your academic record accurately reflect your capabilities?
• What would you do if you saw a co-worker stealing a small item or giving food to someone without paying?
• If you were an animal, what would you be?

Whether you’re preparing for the classic interview question “Tell me about yourself” or writing your resume profile, describing yourself can be tricky. You want to be honest, but not brutally so. You want to impress, but without coming off as narcissistic.

Fortunately, as long as you follow a few guidelines when choosing the right words to describe yourself, you can create a great, long-lasting first impression.

Read on to learn pick the best words to describe yourself and see lists of: 

• Positive words to describe yourself in any situation
• Words to describe yourself in an interview
• Words to describe yourself on a resume

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Looking for other word lists? Check out:

• Resume Action Words, Power Verbs, and Adjectives
• Resume Keywords to use
• Skill Words for Resume
• Strengths for Resume

1. Positive Words to Describe Yourself

Describing yourself in a few words to someone who doesn’t know you is tough. It’s worth spending some time figuring out how you can make a great first impression, because once formed, first impressions are hard to shake. 

Regardless of the situation, the key to describing yourself is to stay upbeat and positive. Now is not the time for humility. The best words to describe yourself will be those that honestly capture your positive qualities. 

Here’s a list of positive words that can be used to describe yourself for any situation:

Positive Words to Describe Yourself

Positive Words to Describe Yourself

Persistent	Genuine	Patient
Enthusiastic	Disciplined	Straightforward
Passionate	Dynamic	Intelligent
Ambitious	Modest	Tough
Tenacious	Extroverted	Sympathetic
Generous	Romantic	Clever
Considerate	Independent	Resourceful
Courageous	Witty	Chill
Fearless	Open-minded	Joyful
Practical	Energetic	Easygoing
Sincere	Motivated	Sociable
Adaptable	Truthful	Funny
Happy	Friendly	Thoughtful
Kind	Reliable	Introverted
Warmhearted	Loyal	Bright
Easygoing	Adventurous	Emotional
Optimistic	Affectionate	Honest
Versatile	Flexible	Loving
Energetic	Sensitive	Exuberant
Gentle	Cheerful	Intuitive
Understanding	Helpful	Hard-working
Determined	Attentive	Self-confident

 

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When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.

2. Words to Describe Yourself in an Interview 

One common interview question goes something like this: “What are 5 words to describe yourself?”. The stakes are higher, but the same rules from above apply (stay positive and be honest). The only difference is now you have to be more specific. 

When the hiring manager asks this question, they are trying to assess whether you have the personality and the skills needed to excel on the job. The key to nailing this job interview question is to stay relevant and provide evidence. 

If the adjectives you use to describe yourself are irrelevant to the job, chances are the HR manager won’t be impressed. Likewise, anyone can say they are creative and hardworking. You need to follow up the adjectives with examples of how you demonstrate that quality. 

Let’s say a nurse is applying for a job at a hospital and the interviewer asks “What are three good words to describe yourself?” Let’s see an example that misses the mark.

Cue the awkward pause when the HR manager is waiting for a follow-up that never comes. 

And of course there’s nothing wrong with being shy, but shyness is irrelevant to the position at hand.

Okay, how can we improve the above response?

What Are 3 Words to Describe Yourself

Wow—Now that’s an answer. 

Highly relevant, honest, solid work experience and with evidence to back it all up. 

Here’s a list of professional words to use in case you’re asked “What are the three best words to describe yourself?” in an interview:

Words to Describe Yourself in an Interview 

Words to Describe Yourself in an Interview

Resourceful	Focused	Reliable
Motivated	Methodical	Proactive
Insightful	Disciplined	Organized
Results-oriented	Energetic	Ambitious
Engaged	Creative	Persuasive
Diligent	Thorough	Analytical
Persistent	Passionate	Dynamic
Dedicated	People-oriented	Team player
Driven	Skillful	Data-driven
Self-starter	Experienced	Calculated
Knowledgeable	Honest	Devoted
Attentive	Meticulous	Professional
Patient	Empathetic	Structured

Read more: How to Answer the «Tell Me About Yourself» Interview Question

3. Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

A resume is your golden ticket to getting the call. There are no two ways about it. And no matter what type of resume you’re writing, a short resume profile at the top can be a great way to make an elevator pitch that you’re the right candidate for the job. After all, recruiters are pressed for time. According to hiring statistics, corporate job offers receive 250 applications on average.

The secret to describing yourself in a resume introduction is to use adjectives relevant to the job and mention achievements that will wow the recruiter. You also want to tailor your resume introduction to the job posting, but don’t copy the job ad word for word! A survey found that 44% of hiring managers automatically reject resumes that appear to duplicate the job posting. 

Here’s a list of positive words to describe yourself on a resume:

Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Thorough	Skilled	Systematic
Passionate	Resourceful	Strategic
Meticulous	Artistic	Unconventional
Attentive	Experienced	Conscientious
Tireless	Personable	Detail-oriented
Patient	Team player	Methodical
Expert	Persevering	Innovative
Ambitious	Unique	Extroverted
Proficient	Cooperative	Caring
Data-driven	Accomplished	Creative
Gregarious	Professional	People-person
Problem solver	Skillful	Sociable

Read more: «What’s Your Greatest Weakness» Interview Question: How to Answer

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here’s what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

That’s a wrap! Do you have any questions regarding these words to describe yourself? How do you describe yourself in interviews or on a resume? I’d love to hear from you. Let’s chat in the comment section!

How would you describe yourself? When we walk into an interview, we’re trying to project the best possible version of ourselves. We want to appear confident, qualified, and ready to take on the job position. It’s difficult to keep up appearances in an interview, no matter how good you are in the interview itself. This is especially so when the hiring manager starts throwing curveball questions. One such question is “describe yourself in one word.”

It may seem simple enough to pick one positive word. The problem is, that question could be followed by a request to elaborate on your answer. And that could present a much more challenging answer.

When you think about it, it’s the ultimate elevator pitch request. And if you’re asked this question in a job interview. Then how can you break down everything you can bring to the table in just one single word? Or a series of words?

In this guide, we’re going to tackle why interviewers ask this question. And how to craft the best answer. And what answers to emulate and which to avoid.

Why Do Interviewers Ask “Describe Yourself?”

Hiring managers do this for the same reason they ask most questions in an interview. They want to know more about you to determine if you are a good fit for the company or position.

The hiring manager is trying to get to the essence of who you are as a person. And as a professional addition to their team. Or, at the very least, they want to confirm based on first impressions, which you think you may be. The relationship you have with yourself can have a tremendous impact on how you live and work. And this question is meant to put you on the spot to reveal your confidence or insecurity.

Pro tip: In a Job Outlook Survey performed by NACE in 2019. They mentioned that communication skills were amongst the highest hard skills desired by employers. Interview questions like «describe yourself in one word» challenge that ability.

This question is usually used as a setup question to probe deeper. Since many potential hires will use a grand word to describe themselves. But will then struggle to give an example of how that word is exemplified in professional day-to-day behavior. “Describe yourself in one word” also gives the hiring manager insight into how realistic the potential hire is being in their own self-reflective view. We’ll dip more into this in the next few sections.

What Are Hiring Managers Trying to Find Out by Asking “Describe Yourself?”

As we mentioned before, the hiring managers want to paint a picture of who you are. And who you think you are. And how well you can elaborate on a simple one-word answer. Or in a short introduction that uses key skills, keywords, and benefits for the company to describe yourself.

When it comes down to it, they are looking for specific answers in your initial short answer and a subsequent longer answer. And they are looking for honesty, humbleness, and accuracy as well.

For example, let’s say you are interviewing for a position in customer service. Your hiring manager asks you to describe yourself in one word. The word you choose is “friendly.” They ask you to elaborate on this. A negative answer would be one that doesn’t relate to a professional setting. And if you answer with something along the lines of “My friends all say I’m very friendly.” That says nothing about your friendliness in the workplace. However, a good answer would contain an example of an experience in which a customer told you that you were very friendly. And did a great job of taking care of their issue. This shows the interviewee that you have real-world professional examples to back up your claims.

It’s also worth noting that your hiring manager is also likely looking for inconsistencies. And if you came into the interview with an attitude. And then describe yourself as “friendly.” It could make you seem inconsistent, unaware of yourself, or plain dishonest.

How to Answer “Describe Yourself” Effectively

This question is usually used as a setup question to probe deeper. And since many potential hires will use a grand word to describe themselves. But will then struggle to give an example of how that word is exemplified in professional day-to-day behavior. “Describe yourself in one word” also gives the hiring manager insight into how realistic the potential hire is being in their own self-reflective view. We’ll dip more into this in the next few sections.

What interviewees should really do is think about the position and the company. And what qualities would be excellent for someone to be successful in that role. Then, choose one of those words that apply to you.

Describing yourself

When describing yourself, pick keywords that connect together and describe what can be offered to the business. An answer example would be the following.

«I’m a reliable, dependable, adaptable professional. Looking to utilize my skills as a sales professional to apply myself to a business looking to disrupt a major industry.»

Describing yourself in one word

Take the time to brainstorm some possibilities for good words to choose from. And make sure that you are prepared to follow up your answer with an explanation. Your hiring manager may or may not do this, but most of the time will do so.

When it comes down to it, the “one word” part is easy. The explanation is a whole other ballpark.

The safest answer to rely on would be a work ethic word. Answer with a work ethic word that best describes you as accurately as possible. And while also having a specific behavioral example from past professional experience or academic experiences. This is an excellent opportunity to tell a brief but relevant story. A story about when you went above what you were expected to do in your work or school life. It’s wonderful to take time while answering this question. And to show that you’re thinking about the answer. But this is definitely a question you want to think about in advance. Be prepared in advance for how to answer the question and explain your answer with examples or brief stories to back it up.

Describe Yourself Examples

Here are example answers for when a hiring manager asks you to describe yourself.

Using skills to describe yourself

«I’m an adaptable professional with previous sales experience. Looking to utilize my software engineering skills to assist marketing teams to increase leads. And subsequently, increase sales and growth.»

Utilizing keywords to describe yourself

«I’m a trustworthy and open-minded professional. This work environment is one that embraces innovation. And when I work with my colleagues, I want to encourage them to ask broad questions. And use quantitative research to address major problems. I aim to influence, encourage, and lead a meticulous team of engineers toward success.»

27 Bad (SHOULDN’T use) Example One Word Answers to «Describe Yourself In One Word»

These answers are less than ideal for a number of reasons. Some of them are just too underwhelming while others are a bit too boastful. Avoid these at all costs.

• Intelligent
• Superior
• Perfect
• Obsessive
• Humble
• Straightforward
• Lazy
• Uncooperative
• Rude
• Vindictive
• Entitled
• Absent
• Dramatic
• Argumentative
• Victim
• Arrogant
• Selfish
• Late
• Defensive
• Disagreeable
• Flaky
• Apathetic
• Disorganized
• Restless
• Unfocused
• Forgetful
• Secretive

84 Best Example Answers (SHOULD use) To «Describe Yourself In One Word»

Take the time to consider whether that one-word description is true of your personality. Your hiring manager may ask you to elaborate on why that word is such a good descriptor of you as a person.

• Dedicated
• Versatile
• Valuable
• Flexible
• Analytical
• Inventive
• Exciting
• Thoughtful
• Powerful
• Practical
• Proactive
• Productive
• Professional
• Meticulous
• Quick
• Balanced
• Achiever
• Knowledgeable
• Leader
• Diplomatic
• Logical
• Initiator
• Original
• Honest
• Assertive
• Attentive
• Direct
• Broad-Minded
• Committed
• Conscientious
• Dynamic
• Customer-Oriented
• Persistent
• Mature
• Methodical
• Motivated
• Objective
• Tenacious
• Sociable
• Friendly
• Realistic
• Reliable
• Resourceful
• Respectful
• Responsible
• Creative
• Confident
• Traditional
• Trustworthy
• Unconventional
• Unique
• Eclectic
• Observant
• Innovative
• Imaginative
• Thorough
• Outgoing
• Particular
• Patient
• Active
• Positive
• Consistent
• Compassionate
• Incredible
• Independent
• Precise
• Mediator
• Emotional
• Cheerful
• Forgiving
• Responsive
• Candid
• Industrious
• Cooperative
• Successful
• Motivated
• Strategic
• Enthusiastic
• Organized
• Focused
• Steady
• Creative
• Active
• Helpful

If You’re Asked To Explain Why

If the interviewer asks you to explain why you chose that word. Then you’re going to need to line it up to a reason that makes you unique. And if you use the answers above, you should find an ample reason for why you chose that word. Be sure that you use some mixture of your personality along with the reason why you value that word.

A good reason for the word choice will be a small working story. Integration of your personality. And the reason why you value the word for the work environment.

Related Hiring Resources

• 55 Top Interview Questions and Best Answers
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Good Words to Describe Yourself (+ Example Answers)

• Diligent / Loyal / Reliable. I am always the first person my friends call because they know I am always there for them. …
• Creative / Innovative / Visionary. …
• Motivated / Ambitious / Leader. …
• Honest / Ethical / Conscientious. …
• Friendly / Personable / Extrovert.

Secondly, How do you write 5 sentences about yourself?

Some statements you should be able to include:

1. I am proud of myself.
2. I am making a difference.
3. I am happy and grateful.
4. I am making my time count.
5. I am honest with myself.
6. I am good to those I care about.

Also What are 3 words to describe yourself? Words you can use to describe yourself

• Adventurous.
• Ambitious.
• Analytical.
• Attentive.
• Balanced.
• Communicative.
• Creative.
• Curious.

In fact How do you tell someone about yourself?

A. Do’s

1. Give a Short Personal Description About Yourself. It’s true that interviewers want to find someone who fits the job requirements. …
2. Talk About Your Achievements So Far. …
3. Talk about your work experience and skills. …
4. Talk About The Biggest Challenges You Faced and Overcame. …
5. Sell Your Skills Relevant For The Job.

How do you introduce yourself in 100 words?

You can add some of your basic biodate for your point in your introduction in 100 words. For example, your name, your age, the date of birth, your favorite color etc. So, in yhat way you can introduce yourself in 100 words. Highlight only those events that impacted your life.

What are 5 sentences?

5 sentences:

• My mom taught me to finish everything on my plate at dinner.
• The only problem with a pencil, is that they do not stay sharp long enough.
• Our school building is made of bricks.
• Every night I get woken up by the sound of a barking dog across the street.
• Salad is for rabbits.

How do you write 10 lines about yourself?

Ten Lines on Myself

1. My name is Aditya Ranade, and I am 8 years old.
2. I study in BAV Public School in the fourth standard.
3. My father’s name is Mr. …
4. I have one younger sister who studies in the first standard in the same school.
5. I like watching cartoons, and my favourite cartoon character is Doraemon.

How can I introduce myself in English?

Here are some examples:

1. Morning! I don’t think we’ve met before, I’m Aryan.
2. Hey there! I’m Surya. I’m new—I just moved to the building a couple of days ago. …
3. Hi Amy. I heard it’s your first day so I thought I could reach out and introduce myself. We haven’t officially met but I’ll be working with you on this project.

How would you describe yourself in one sentence?

Sample answers:

I am a hard-working and driven individual who isn’t afraid to face a challenge. I’m passionate about my work and I know how to get the job done. I would describe myself as an open and honest person who doesn’t believe in misleading other people and tries to be fair in everything I do.

How do I write about myself for a job?

You can follow these steps to write about yourself:

1. Introduce yourself.
2. Include the most relevant professional experience.
3. Mention significant personal achievements or awards.
4. Introduce personal details.
5. Use a casual and friendly tone.

How can you describe yourself in one word?

To describe myself in one word, I’m a very ambitious person. I take up all learning opportunities that enhance my skills and know-how to cope up with failures. I like challenging myself to find creative solutions as quickly as possible and resolve any issues at hand.

Can you tell a little about yourself?

The basic principle of a good “Tell me a little about yourself” response is to cover as much territory as you can in as small a space as possible; you don’t know what’s going to pique the interviewer’s interest, so you want to include as many things as possible that might get the conversation going, with a focus on …

Whats an interesting fact about myself?

List of 51 Examples of Fun Facts about Yourself to Tell Others

• “One of my favorite things to do is…. …
• “Right now, I’m reading about….” …
• “If I could have any superpower, it would be….” …
• “One thing I know I do well (or better than most) is….” …
• “I look up to….” …
• “One thing I cannot live without is….”

What are your strengths?

Some examples of strengths you might mention include: Enthusiasm. Trustworthiness. Creativity.

How can I describe myself in one word?

To describe myself in one word, I’m a very ambitious person. I take up all learning opportunities that enhance my skills and know-how to cope up with failures. I like challenging myself to find creative solutions as quickly as possible and resolve any issues at hand.

How do you write 5 sentences?

The classic five sentence paragraph uses the following format:

1. Tell them what you are going to tell them.
2. Tell them.
3. Tell them.
4. Tell them.
5. Tell them what you told them.

What is English sentence?

A sentence is the basic unit of language which expresses a complete thought. It does this by following the grammatical basic rules of syntax. For example:”Ali is walking”. A complete sentence has at least a subject and a main verb to state (declare) a complete thought.

What are the 7 types of sentences?

The other way is based on a sentence’s structure (simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex).

• Statements/Declarative Sentences. These are the most common type of sentence. …
• Questions/Interrogative Sentences. …
• Exclamations/Exclamatory Sentences. …
• Commands/Imperative Sentences.

How can I introduce myself in 10 lines in English?

Here’s how you introduce yourself in English in 10 lines. You will learn this in 2 to 3 minutes.
…
10) I enjoy listening to music.

1. I enjoy listening to music.
2. I enjoy eating.
3. I enjoy watching television.
4. I enjoy learning languages.
5. I enjoy exercising.
6. I enjoy reading.

What is the my self?

language note: Myself is the first person singular reflexive pronoun. A speaker or writer uses myself to refer to himself or herself. Myself is used as the object of a verb or preposition when the subject refers to the same person. I asked myself what I would have done in such a situation.

How do you write 20 lines about yourself?

These 20 Lines on Myself are for class 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10.

1. My name is Kartik Solanki.
2. I am eleven years old boy.
3. My birthday is on 6 ^th March.
4. I study in class 5 in Central School.
5. I live in a joint family with my grandparents, parents and sister.
6. I love my family very much and enjoy spending time with them.

How should I introduce myself as a fresher?

Talk about yourself, your name and where you come from. Ensure good body language and communication. For fresher job interviews, you must talk about your educational qualifications and achievements.

How can I introduce myself in interview in English?

So, here’s a self-introduction sample that you can use to introduce yourself to people other than your interviewer. “Hello, My name is (your name). I have an interview appointment with Mr. X (name of the person) at 12 pm for the position of (mention the role).”

What should we write in self-introduction?

Follow these steps when writing a self-introduction email to your team:

1. Write a friendly subject line. …
2. Choose your tone based on the company culture. …
3. Explain why you’re writing. …
4. Describe your background and new role. …
5. Show your enthusiasm. …
6. Send follow-up messages.

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