Nailing the Opening Pitch: Why You Need a Ready Answer for "Tell Us About Yourself"

It’s often the first question in an interview, and sometimes the only one where you’ll have the undivided attention of the entire panel: “Tell us about yourself.” Simple as it may sound, this moment sets the tone for everything that follows — and being ready with a clear, confident response can make all the difference. Even if this question isn’t asked directly, you should assume that at some point early in the interview, you’ll be given the opportunity to introduce yourself. And when that happens, you have just a few minutes to highlight who you are, what you bring, and why you’re the right fit for the role. This is your opening pitch — your chance to lead with purpose, establish your value, and frame the conversation on your terms.

A strong opening doesn’t retell your CV. It focuses on the key messages you want the panel to remember — your core value adds, the themes that define your professional identity, and the experience that most directly aligns with the role. But just as importantly, your pitch should include a clear expression of your motivation for the job. Why this role? Why this organization? Why now?

Too often, candidates focus only on what they’ve done and forget to show genuine interest in the position itself. Yet motivation is one of the clearest indicators of future performance. Interviewers want to see that you’ve thought seriously about the role and that you’re not just capable — you’re genuinely committed. When you articulate your motivation early, you demonstrate clarity, self-awareness, and intention. You also differentiate yourself from candidates who may be equally qualified but less engaged.

This opening moment is also one of the few times you’ll have the panel’s full attention. The reality is that interview panels are often busy, distracted, and juggling multiple responsibilities. By the second or third question, it's not uncommon for people to start checking email or scrolling through WhatsApp. That’s why your opening pitch matters so much. It’s your opportunity to connect, to energize the room, and to give the panel a reason to stay focused on you.

The best opening pitches are clear, structured, and confident. They touch on who you are, what you bring, what motivates you, and how your experience connects to the role. You don’t need to be scripted, but you do need to be ready. Because whether the question comes or not, you should never miss the chance to make your first impression count — and that starts with a pitch that combines value and motivation with purpose and clarity.