How to Describe Yourself (in Interviews, Performance Reviews)

• “I’ve found that I’m more decisive than most people— and more impatient. I like to move fast.”

• “I’m at my best when I’m challenged to persuade someone to do something they didn’t necessarily intend to do.”

• “I initiate a lot. I’m always telling my colleagues what they should do. I suppose sometimes I might push too much, but we always get a lot done.”

• “I hate playing politics. I’m a very up-front person and don’t function well in a world with a lot of backroom action.”

• “I get a thrill from the ‘ask.’ What’s the worst they can say? ‘No.’ Well, so what? The sun’s going to rise again tomorrow.”

• “People seem to want to do more for me and with me than they do for other people. I enjoy getting people on my side.”

• “I don’t like talking around a subject. I like getting to the point. I think that’s one of my strengths: focusing people on what the outcome is.”