What is Your Greatest Strength? Answer Samples to Ace the Job Interview

Self Made Millennial8 minutes read

When answering the question "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview, focus on specific strengths that match key competencies for the role and use storytelling to illustrate those strengths, rather than listing descriptors or being too humble. A two-part formula is provided to help candidates effectively answer this question by identifying a relevant strength and sharing a story that demonstrates that strength, with examples given for various career paths to showcase the formula's application.

Insights

  • Providing specific strengths that align with the job requirements and illustrating them with stories is crucial in answering "What is your greatest strength?" during a job interview.
  • In addition to showcasing strengths, it is essential to follow a structured formula that includes matching a strength with a key competency for the role and sharing a relevant story to demonstrate that strength effectively.

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Recent questions

  • How can I answer "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview?

    When answering this question in a job interview, it is important to focus on specific strengths that align with the key competencies required for the role. Avoid simply listing adjectives and instead, provide a story or example that illustrates your strength in action. By following a two-part formula of naming a strength and providing a relevant story, you can effectively showcase your abilities without coming across as bragging.

  • What are common mistakes to avoid when answering "What is your greatest strength?"

    When answering the question "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes such as listing only descriptors, giving an elevator pitch, or being overly humble. Instead, focus on providing specific examples that demonstrate your strengths in action. By steering clear of these pitfalls, you can effectively communicate your abilities to the interviewer.

  • Can you provide examples of how to apply the two-part formula for answering "What is your greatest strength?"

    To effectively apply the two-part formula for answering the question "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview, it is essential to name a strength that aligns with the key competencies for the role and provide a story that illustrates that strength in action. By offering concrete examples from your past experiences, you can showcase your abilities and demonstrate how they are relevant to the position you are applying for.

  • How can I avoid giving reasons for the employer not to hire me when answering "What is your greatest weakness?"

    When answering the question "What is your greatest weakness?" in a job interview, it is important to avoid giving reasons for the employer not to hire you. Instead of focusing on weaknesses that are detrimental to the role, consider discussing areas for improvement that are not critical to the job requirements. By framing your weaknesses in a constructive light and highlighting steps you are taking to address them, you can demonstrate self-awareness and a willingness to grow.

  • What does the interviewer look for when asking "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview?

    When asking the question "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview, the interviewer is looking for specific strengths that align with the key competencies required for the role. They want to hear stories or examples that illustrate these strengths in action, showcasing how you can contribute effectively to the position. By focusing on relevant strengths and providing concrete examples, you can demonstrate your suitability for the job and stand out as a strong candidate.

Related videos

Summary

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Answering "Greatest Strength" in Job Interviews

  • The video discusses how to answer the question "What is your greatest strength?" in a job interview without sounding like you are bragging.
  • The interviewer is looking for specific strengths that match key competencies for the role and wants to hear stories illustrating those strengths.
  • Three common mistakes people make when answering this question are listing only descriptors, giving an elevator pitch, and being too humble.
  • The two-part formula provided involves naming a strength that matches a key competency for the role and telling a story that illustrates that strength.
  • Examples are given for different career paths to demonstrate how to apply the formula effectively.
  • The video also mentions a formula for answering the question "What is your greatest weakness?" to avoid giving reasons for the employer not to hire you.
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