Preparing for the inevitable interview question “Tell me about yourself” is a critical exercise that will actually facilitate your entire job search. So, no matter where you are in your transition, start formulating your answer now.

Even though the ideal interview answer is less than two minutes, prepare by writing a 30-minute monologue about yourself. Unlike a military biography, it should not be simply a list of where you've been and what you've done.

Review performance appraisals from your entire career to refresh your memory about some of your greatest accomplishments - and most entertaining stories. Think about what you've enjoyed about your work and what you didn't enjoy.

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Think about your values, what motivates you, and your purpose going forward. For inspiration, consider Simon Sinek's Start with Why. Your story should tell the listener who you are. Outline your monologue, or even write it out more thoroughly, then practice it so it becomes easy to deliver without notes. Identify the theme: Who are you at the core, what do you want, and how are those two items related.

Now, take select pieces of your monologue and you have your LinkedIn profile and résumé summaries, the basis of your cover letters, your 30-second elevator pitch ... and the answer to the first question in just about every informational and employment interview.