What one word describes you interview

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?

Tough Interview Question — What is the one word that describes you best?

What is the one word that describes you best?

Similar interview questions:


What dictionary word has your name in the definition?

What word comes to mind when describing you?

If you had to define who you are in one word, what would it be?

How would your parents describe you to their friends in just one or two words?

Why the interviewer is asking this question:

The interviewer is trying to get to the core essence of who you are. Or at least who you think you may be. This question is usually used as a setup question to probe deeper, since many candidates will use a platitude word to describe themselves, yet struggle to give an example of how that word is exemplified in practical day-to-day behavior. So it also allows the interviewer insight into how realistic the candidate is being in their own self-reflective view.

The best approach to answering this question:

Answer with a work ethic word which best describes you, while having a specific behavioral example to back it up. This is an excellent opportunity to tell a story about when you went above-and-beyond in your work life. It’s OK to take time while answering to show that you are thinking about the answer, but this is definitely a question that you want to think about in advance and be prepared in advance for how to answer the question.

An example of how to best answer this question for experienced candidates:

«Hmmm…great question. I would have to say dedicated would describe me the best in my work life. I’m dedicated to getting the job done and delivering on time. Let me give you an example of how my dedication recently came through in delivery of my current project…»

An example of how to best answer this question for entry level candidates:

«Hmmm…that’s a great question. I would say that committed would best describe me. I’ve been committed in both my academic career and in my recent internship, which shows in how I have delivered on my commitments. Let me give you an example of how I committed on my recent internship project…»

An example of how you should not answer this question:

«Well, I’m not sure there is any one word that would describe me best, since I am a such multi-faceted person with many different aspects to who I am. So I reject your question and I will substitute it with a better one, asking me to describe myself in many words. And those words would be stupendous, amazing, incredible, fantastic…»

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Further review: know the answers to these 100 Common Interview Questions to be fully prepared for your interview!

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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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!

Being asked to describe yourself is a very common interview question.

The hiring manager may ask something like, “How Would You Describe Yourself” or, “Tell Me Five Adjectives That Describe You”.

The average person will list a few adjectives and be done with their answer. Then they’ll wonder why they never got the job offer.

Saying you are smart, loyal, organized, and creative holds little weight. Anyone can say these things.

If you want the job, it’s essential that you use these words to tell a story.

In this article, we’ll share some of the best words to describe yourself in an interview, but more importantly, we’ll show you how to turn these words into a compelling story.

We’ve also broken down these words into professions to help you better choose the adjectives that are fitting for your line of work.

If you just came here looking for some good adjectives to describe yourself in an interview, check out our list below.

But remember, the best answer to this interview question goes beyond the words you choose. It’s all about the story you tell!

Once you have your words chosen, you can focus on finding real-life stories that back up those traits you portray.

Job-Specific Words to Describe Yourself (+Stories)

Let’s say you can think of a handful of good adjectives to describe yourself on the spot.

That’s great! You’re halfway there.

Again, you want to avoid simply giving a list of words to describe yourself. Instead, give a short story to support your claim.

Below is a list of example answers to the interview question, “What are 3 words to describe yourself?”

Keep in mind that the same story can be used for different words. It’s more about the positive story you tell than the specific words you choose.

In the examples below, the interviewee gave one of the descriptive words and then added a short (and true) story to back it up.

We’ve included samples for most professions including: administrative, sales & marketing, customer service, healthcare, finance & accounting, operations, managers & leaders, IT & software, educators, human resources, and design/creative.

Here’s how administrative professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words cool-headed, organized, resourceful:

Here’s how sales & marketing professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words friendly, personable, and extrovert:

Here’s how customer service professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words diligent, loyal, and reliable:

Here’s how healthcare professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words empathetic, patient, and adaptable:

Here’s how finance & accounting professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words ethical, organized, and thorough:

Here’s how operations professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words critical-thinking, collaborative, and efficient:

Here’s how managers & leaders might reply to the question focusing on the words motivated, ambitious, and leader:

Here’s how IT & software professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words analytical, innovative, and resourceful:

Here’s how teachers & educators might reply to the question focusing on the words attentive, disciplined, and supportive:

Here’s how human resources professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words analytical, collaborative, and decisive:

Here’s how creative & design professionals might reply to the question focusing on the words imaginative, passionate, and proactive:

Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

Now that you’ve found the best words to describe yourself in an interview, take a look at your resume. 

As with an interview, it’s important that your resume describes you with more than adjectives. Tell a story!

Please note that this list is not extensive. There are hundreds of words you can use to describe yourself on a resume. 

With the right story, just about any word can be effective.

Next, let’s look at a few resume examples using some of the adjectives from the list above.

Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume (+Stories)

Just like describing yourself in an interview, your resume should tell a story. More often than not, this story will be under your work experience section.

While it is possible to add some of these adjectives to the “Skills” section of your resume, it’s better to list hard skills in this section.

Soft skills such as “analytical, diligent, and strategic” are better shown in a story than listed as keywords.

Below, we provide a few examples from real resumes written by Certified Professional Resume Writers at Find My Profession.

Accomplished

Versatile

Strategic

Such powerful words are sure to make you the favorite candidate of the hiring manager!

Key Takeaways

There are hundreds of words you could use to describe yourself in an interview, but more important than the adjectives you use is the story you share to drive your point home.

1. Pick relevant words for the job you’re applying for. An accountant may not need to say they are an extrovert. A word like “analytical” might be a better choice.
2. Tell a story that backs your words up. This can be one story that encompasses all 3-5 words or it can be a unique story for each word.
3. Stay positive and brief. Your story should remain positive, avoid sharing too many personal details, and remain under two minutes long.

You can find more interview questions to study in our list of the 50 Top Job Interview Questions and Answers.

Good luck with that interview! You are going to do great. You are ambitious, confident, and resourceful!