Top 3 "About You" Interview Questions & Sample Answers for CNAs

Most people don’t like talking about themselves. However, the first few minutes of your interview will be all about you! So spend a few minutes reading each of the questions and sample answers below to prepare for your upcoming interview. 

Question 1: Tell me about yourself.

This question might seem easy, but it can stump even the best of us! They don’t want your life story but do want you to talk freely about what makes you tick so they can determine if you’re a good fit for the team. 

Example answer

I’ve always loved helping others, which is why I went to CNA school. While I don’t have formal caregiving experience, I’ve cared for others in any way I could in my personal life. I enjoyed my clinical experience and can’t wait to start serving the residents here. I want to learn best practices over the next few years to be a top performer. 

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Question 2: Why did you decide to become a CNA?

You can really shine when answering this question! Tell them a story about what inspired you to go to CNA school. Maybe you cared for a friend or family member or volunteered at a local facility or church. Whatever made you sign up for school - tell that story!

Example answer

My grandparents were often ill when I was growing up. I would spend time with them doing household chores and helping them with personal care. My grandma lived the last few years of her life in a nursing home. I saw firsthand how much care and compassion the CNAs provided and wanted to be part of that. 

Question 3: What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Employers love this question for some reason! The best way to answer this question is honestly, but without saying something that makes you seem incompetent. 

Example answer 

My greatest strength comes from my compassion and empathy. I have a unique way of putting myself in the other person’s shoes to really understand what they might be going through and how to best care for them. I’m also organized, punctual, and reliable. My greatest weakness is overcommitting. I’m so passionate about this work and want to learn everything possible that I might try to do too much. Instead, I need to slow down and allow myself to learn and grow over the next few months and even years.

Get Ready to Shine

Interviewing is hard. However, when you practice answering these informational questions, you’ll feel more confident on the big day. 

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