How to Answer "Describe Yourself in Three Words"
A snappy, memorable answer that signals self-awareness without sounding rehearsed. Includes 30 word options.
Definition
"Describe yourself in three words" is a compressed self-awareness test. Three words force you to prioritize, and the words you pick reveal what you think the role rewards. Pairs naturally with tell me about yourself as a one-two opener.
Why It Matters in Interviews
Short-form questions are scored quickly. Recruiters listen for words that match the role brief, plus a one-line proof point that shows you are not just reciting from a list. Generic words ("hard-working", "passionate", "team-player") get a flat score because everyone uses them.
How to Use It
Pick three words: one technical or domain word, one process or work-style word, one human or character word. Then add a 10 to 15 second proof point for one of them. Total answer: 30 to 45 seconds. Keep it tight: long answers undermine sharp questions.
Example
"Curious, structured, calm. Curious because I will spend a Saturday reading about something nobody asked me to learn. Structured because I write a one-page brief before any project starts. Calm because the team usually looks at me first when an incident hits."
Quick Tips
- 30 strong options: curious, structured, calm, decisive, resourceful, candid, pragmatic, rigorous, adaptive, focused, principled, generous, scrappy, deliberate, empathetic, methodical, low-ego, persuasive, resilient, observant, accountable, exacting, optimistic, direct, patient, energetic, thoughtful, analytical, creative, persistent.
- Avoid the cliches: hard-working, passionate, motivated, dedicated.
- Do not pick three words that say the same thing.
- If asked to elaborate, only do so on one. Two proof points feels rehearsed; three is a monologue.
FAQ
Can I use a quote from a manager?
Yes — "my last manager called me X, Y, and Z" lands well because it is third-party validation.
Should the words match the job description?
At least one should. The other two should reveal something the JD does not already require.
