When it comes to a job interview, you’ve got a lot of prep work to do. While it’s impossible to know every question you’ll get asked, the good news is that there are many common ones that hiring managers tend to ask.
One of these is “Describe yourself in 5 words.” But if you’re not prepared to give a solid answer, this request can throw you off track.
Here are 15 potential words to describe yourself (and 16 words not to use!).
15 best adjectives to describe yourself
When you’re preparing your response, you’ll need descriptive adjectives (i.e. a word or phrase naming an attribute about yourself) that sum you up in a nut-shell. Consider using the following adjectives to describe yourself.
- Flexible
- Hard-working
- Persistent
- Reliable
- Enthusiastic
- Responsive
- Analytical
- Confident
- Encouraging
- Motivated
- Friendly
- Creative
- Methodical
- Personable
- Versatile
But listing off these adjectives alone isn’t enough to stand out to hiring managers. Tell the interviewer why you’ve chosen these words and back up your claims with strong, story-based examples.
Hint: Ensure that the words and stories both describe you AND are relevant to the position.
Turn five adjectives & examples into a cohesive answer
Unless the interviewer gives you less time, it should take around two to four minutes to list out five words that describe you and then share examples of why you exemplify each one. You might feel like you need 30 minutes to express yourself, but you’ll impress an interviewer more if your answers are succinct and clearly answer the question.
Practice answering “Describe yourself in five words” before your interview to ensure your response is tight and clear.
16 adjectives to avoid
Not all words are created equal. Don’t list vague, boilerplate, or general words to describe yourself. And steer clear of business jargon like “customer-focused” and “extensive experience.”
These words don’t mean much. They don’t describe how your mind works and won’t impress the hiring manager (especially since many applicants tend to use them). Also, avoid words that could be perceived as negative.
Here are examples of bad adjectives (or badjectives, if you will):
- BLAND & EXPECTED OF ALL EMPLOYEES: Good, smart, on time, punctual, dependable
- VAIN: Superstar, Perfect, Talented, Exceptional, Brilliant, Humble, Artist, Genius
- DIFFICULT TO WORK WITH: Stubborn, Outspoken, Blunt, Honest, Perfectionist, Demanding, Exacting, Obsessive, Driven
- CHILDISH and NOTE SELF-AWARE: Unique, Special, Intelligent, Smart, Brilliant,
- JARGON: Customer-focused, Result-driven, Problem-solver, Go-to person, Seasoned, Experienced
In short, don’t fritter away your answer with fluff words or with adjectives which may have slightly negative connotations.. Your choice of adjectives matters so be prepared with strong choices and well-thought-out responses.
Extra tips when asked to describe yourself in 5 words
Take the question seriously.
While this question might not seem challenging on the surface, don’t underestimate its importance. Hiring managers ask questions for a reason, so make sure to put your best foot forward. Make sure you’re taking the question seriously, just as you would any other question. Hint: Never answer, “I don’t know.” or “I’m not sure.”
Be honest with your answer.
You want to position yourself in the best light. However, don’t go overboard and exaggerate your qualities or list those that don’t fit your strengths simply because it might make you look good. Instead, think through the requirements for the job and how your unique attributes can best meet them.
Ask family and friends.
If you’re still unsure about which words describe you, ask a family member or friend. They might be able to offer you more insight into how others view you and how you can best describe yourself.
Make a list.
It’s best to start writing out your thoughts when thinking about how you’d answer this question. Don’t edit yourself in any way. Continue to write until you can’t think of any other qualities you want to highlight. Then start to edit until you have the top five that best represent you for this particular job.
Ready? Describe yourself in 5 words.
A hiring manager asks you to describe yourself in 5 words to determine if you’re self-aware and a genuine candidate. They also want to know how you think.
Use this question as an opportunity to thoughtfully explain who you truly are to the employer (and why you’re the best candidate for the position!).