Embracing your Agency by Becoming a Storyteller

Storytelling used to be one of the primary ways that humans communicate, educate and convey information. So, it has a long history, why is that still relevant today and what does it mean to be a storyteller? Picture this: You’re sitting across from an interviewer, and they smile and ask the inevitable, “Tell me about yourself.” It’s a simple enough request, but for many, this question brings a wave of uncertainty. The problem? Most people aren’t accustomed to talking about themselves in an organized, coherent way. Instead, they dive into a patchy narrative, skipping key moments, doubling back to fill gaps, and ultimately leaving their listener confused.

The truth is, when someone asks “Tell me about yourself,” they aren’t asking for a dry list of facts. They want to hear a story—a structured and engaging journey through your personal and professional milestones. This narrative doesn’t need to include every detail; instead, it should be a well-paced account that balances brevity with depth. Think of it as setting the stage. Cover the less-relevant pieces at a high level, leaving time to weave in the pivotal moments that align with the role or opportunity in question.

Learning to tell your story is about more than just acing interviews—it’s about creating connections. When you adopt a storyteller’s mindset, you engage your audience and allow them to envision your experiences as a cohesive journey. Over time, you’ll find yourself crafting different versions of your story to suit various audiences and time constraints.

Conciseness is key. A tight, well-delivered story doesn’t just respect your listener’s time; it opens the door for natural follow-up questions, allowing the conversation to flow easily. This approach maximizes the interviewer’s ability to guide the discussion in a way that feels intuitive and mutually satisfying.

Ultimately, embracing this shift from reciting qualifications to storytelling not only makes you a better communicator but also enables you to showcase your value more effectively. So, the next time someone asks, “Tell me about yourself,” don’t panic—embrace that opportunity to tell a story that is uniquely yours to tell.