What Are the Best Strategies to Discuss Your Strengths in Interviews?

TL;DR

To effectively discuss your strengths in interviews, avoid mentioning technical skills and focus on transferable skills relevant to the role. Research the position and network with current employees to identify appropriate strengths, and incorporate learnings into your responses instead of solely relying on the STAR format. This will make your answers more compelling and relatable.

Transcript

The popular interview question, "What are your greatest strengths?" should be an extremely easy question to answer, in theory. After all, we know ourselves best, we know what our biggest strengths are. So why is this question still tripping up candidates during job interviews? Because, as you'll soon notice, it's actually pretty challenging to ba... Read More

Key Insights

• 📶 Mention transferable skills instead of technical skills as your greatest strengths.
• 😷 Research and ask professionals for insights on relevant strengths for interview responses.
• 🪜 Include learnings in your responses to behavioral interview questions for added depth.
• 🛩️ Small adjustments in interview responses, like including learnings, can make a significant impact.
• 💁 Networking and connecting virtually can provide valuable information for tailored interview responses.
• 💁 Avoid relying solely on the STAR format, incorporate learnings for more impactful responses.
• 🤳 Reflect on experiences and show self-awareness in your interview responses.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why should you avoid mentioning technical skills as your greatest strength in interviews?

Mentioning technical skills as your greatest strength can limit your adaptability and may not align with the company's current or future needs. Focus on transferable skills that can apply to various roles.

Q: How can you find relevant strengths to talk about in interviews?

Research the job role and ask professionals working in the company for insights on qualities that high performers possess. Networking and connecting virtually can provide valuable information for tailored responses.

Q: Why is it important to include learnings in your responses to behavioral interview questions?

Including learnings in your responses shows self-awareness, growth, and the ability to reflect on experiences. It adds depth to your answers and demonstrates your potential for continuous improvement.

Q: How can small adjustments in interview responses make a significant impact?

Small adjustments, such as including learnings in responses instead of just results, can showcase your strengths in a more impactful way, setting you apart from other candidates and making a lasting impression.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Do not mention hard technical skills as your biggest strength, focus on transferable skills instead.

• Talk about strengths relevant to the role you're applying for, research and network for insights.

• Avoid relying solely on the STAR format, include learnings in your responses.