Quick answer
Use a present–past–future structure: what you do now, the experience that prepared you, and why this role is the logical next step.
Start with professional relevance
Give your current role, area of strength and one piece of evidence. The interviewer does not need your full life story.
Select, do not recite
Choose two or three experiences that match the job description. Connect them into a theme rather than reading your CV from top to bottom.
Finish with this opportunity
Explain what attracts you to the work and organisation. Keep it specific enough that the same answer could not be used for every employer.
Common questions
How long should the answer be?
Roughly 60–90 seconds is usually enough to establish the relevant story.
Should I mention personal interests?
Only briefly when they add useful context or the interviewer invites them.
Sources and editorial approach
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