How to answer the question: What's Your Story?

Summary

This video script emphasizes the power of sharing unique personal stories in job interviews or casual conversations. It encourages individuals to identify aspects of their lives that set them apart—things that go beyond what’s listed on a resume. Whether it’s balancing work and school, overcoming challenges as an international student, or participating in volunteer work, these experiences create a human connection with others. The goal is to engage the listener by sharing authentic stories, fostering deeper connections instead of just focusing on business transactions. The most impactful interviews, the script suggests, are those where personal stories take precedence over resumes.

Takeaways

• 😀 The goal in sharing your story is to get the listener to say 'tell me more about that'—this draws them in.
• 😀 Identify three unique aspects of your life that others may not know about you; these can be more personal or unconventional than what's on a resume.
• 😀 Highlight experiences that won't show up in a Google search or on a resume, such as balancing work and school.
• 😀 For example, working full-time while attending school shows dedication and the ability to juggle responsibilities, something that may set you apart in an interview.
• 😀 Being an international student is a unique story that can highlight resilience and the courage to adjust to a new country and language.
• 😀 Personal stories about how you reached where you are—such as moving from another country or studying in a non-native language—are valuable conversation starters.
• 😀 Share experiences that highlight your willingness to step out of your comfort zone, like mission trips or volunteering abroad.
• 😀 Look for stories that might seem small or insignificant to you, but can make a big impact in creating a human connection.
• 😀 Focus on creating a human connection rather than just sharing facts about your qualifications or resume.
• 😀 The best job interviews often don't involve talking much about the resume, but rather about who you are as a person and what makes you unique.

Q & A

Why is it important to identify things about yourself that are unique and not listed on a resume?

It's important because these unique details can create a human connection during interactions, such as job interviews, helping you stand out and be memorable. These personal stories make you more relatable and show your character beyond what's on paper.

How can mentioning that you work full-time while studying impact a job interview?

Mentioning that you work full-time while studying highlights your work ethic, determination, and ability to manage multiple responsibilities. It shows potential employers that you are willing to put in extra effort to achieve your goals.

What impact does sharing your international background have in an interview?

Sharing an international background demonstrates resilience and adaptability. It shows that you are willing to step out of your comfort zone, learn new languages, and adjust to new environments, which is often seen as a valuable trait in employees.

How do volunteer experiences, like mission trips or teaching English, add value to a job interview?

Volunteer experiences demonstrate qualities like empathy, leadership, and commitment to others. They show that you have a broader perspective and are willing to contribute to the community, which can make you an attractive candidate.

Why are stories about your personal life more impactful than simply listing your qualifications in an interview?

Personal stories make you more relatable and authentic, helping interviewers connect with you on a human level. They create a lasting impression that goes beyond your qualifications, showing what kind of person you are.

How can mentioning something unexpected, like selling cheese, create interest in an interview?

Mentioning an unexpected experience like selling cheese sparks curiosity and invites the interviewer to ask more. It shows you're comfortable sharing unique aspects of your background, which can make you more memorable and approachable.

What is the primary goal during an interview when talking about personal experiences?

The primary goal is to build a human connection rather than focusing solely on professional achievements. Sharing personal experiences helps interviewers see who you are as a person and what values you bring.

Why is it significant when an interviewer puts their resume aside during a conversation?

When an interviewer puts their resume aside, it indicates they are more engaged in the conversation and are connecting with you on a deeper level. It shows they're interested in learning about you beyond your qualifications.

How can sharing your challenges, like balancing work and education, help you in an interview?

Sharing challenges like balancing work and education showcases your time-management skills, perseverance, and ability to handle pressure. It provides concrete examples of your dedication and resilience.

What is the role of empathy in creating a meaningful connection during an interview?

Empathy plays a key role in creating a meaningful connection because it helps you understand the perspective of others. Showing empathy in an interview demonstrates emotional intelligence and makes you more relatable and approachable.