How to describe yourself in three words in an interview

• Interviewers use your three words to gauge self-awareness and fit.
• Pick words that match the job, not just flattering ones.
• Back each word with a quick, concrete example.
• Avoid ego, timidity, and words that have nothing to do with the work.
• Expect the question on applications and video screens, so prepare a shortlist ahead of time.

Employers ask you to describe yourself in three words to get a fast read on how you see yourself. They are usually listening for adjectives that align with the role they are filling. Your three words act as a quick personal brand, defining both your personality and your professional side.

Follow these three steps to prepare before an interviewer asks:

1. Create a list of words

Start by writing down every word that comes to mind when you think of yourself. Do not overthink it at first; just capture your instincts. As the list grows, you will land on more nuanced adjectives. If you feel stuck, ask family or friends for a few.

2. Choose three that fit the role

Cross out anything that reads as shallow or pretentious, then compare what is left against the job description and highlight the words that match it. This keeps your answer relevant while helping you stay true to yourself in the interview. One Program Manager on Glassdoor Community put it simply: “I’d be honest but relevant to the job at hand.” The same advice holds whether you answer in person or in a video interview.

3. Explain why you chose them with an example

After naming your three words, give a brief reason for each and tie it to how you will use it in the role. A Personal Banker on Community offered a useful tip: “tie it into your career and give an example.” This is a lighthearted moment too, so let your personality show.

Steer clear of these three traps:

• Showing too much ego: Some confidence is good, but words like “amazing” or “awesome” say little and can land wrong. Grand words such as “intelligent” can even read as arrogant, so a humbler pick like “curious” often works better.
• Being too timid: Do not undersell yourself with “I’ve never thought about it” or “I’m not sure.” Choose words that show why you are worth hiring.
• Choosing irrelevant words: A trait that defines you outside work may add nothing to the interview. Pick words that capture both your personality and your professional self.

Still feeling stuck? Group your candidates into three buckets, then pick from the one that fits the role.

• Work ethic and drive: ambitious, dedicated, driven, reliable, responsible, organized, and energetic.
• Working with others: communicative, empathetic, helpful, patient, engaged, balanced, and attentive.
• Thinking and creativity: analytical, creative, curious, insightful, inquisitive, adventurous, dynamic, flexible, passionate, thoughtful, and witty.

Use these examples as inspiration:

Example 1

I would describe myself as driven, helpful, and reliable. I am driven because I am always working toward a new goal. I am helpful because I stop to lend a hand along the way. And I am reliable because I keep my promises: if I say I will do it, you will not have to remind me.

Example 2

First, I am thoughtful; I look for small ways to lighten other people’s load. Second, I am organized; I live by planners and lists so work ships on time. Third, I am empathetic; I can see other perspectives and find common ground.

Example 3

I am curious, insightful, and passionate. Exploring and researching new things means I usually have something to contribute to a brainstorm, and once a topic grabs me, I dig in deeply. Those traits are why I have built so much research experience.

Want to hear how other job seekers tackled this question? Join Glassdoor Community to compare notes and get real interview advice from people who have been there.