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How to Answer “What are Your Strengths?” in a Job Interview: Tips to Follow

How to Answer “What are Your Strengths?” in a Job Interview: Tips to Follow

How to Answer “What are Your Strengths?” in a Job Interview: Tips to Follow


"What is your greatest strength?

Seems like a straightforward question, doesn't it?

You confidently respond with, "It's my ability to manage time!" and anticipate the interviewer to proceed with the next question.

However, they don't. They continue to sit there, almost expecting a more elaborate response.

You become paralyzed with uncertainty.

"What did I do incorrectly? I did answer the question, didn't I?"

Indeed, you did answer it, but not quite in the manner they expected. This seemingly simple interview question holds more significance than meets the eye. Surprisingly, this is a commonly asked question in job interviews. Are you aware of how to respond to it?

If you want to discover the hidden meaning behind the answer to "What's your greatest strength?" then continue reading this blog post to uncover the secret!

Why do Interviewers Ask “What is Your Strength?”

The primary objective behind this common interview question asked by hiring managers is to determine if your strengths perfectly align with the company’s requirements and job responsibilities.

The company always aims to ascertain whether you are a suitable match for the position you are being interviewed for. The interviewer’s goal is to establish a connection between your qualifications and the skills required to excel in the job.

Your answer “What are your strengths?” question plays a crucial role in helping the employer decide whether you are the most qualified candidate for the position. Hence, if you are applying for an accounting job, emphasizing your strengths related to event organization would not be beneficial.

It is essential to demonstrate to the interviewer that you possess the qualities sought after by the employer. Some strengths are universally desired by all employers, such as dedication, time management, and work ethic. Others will be specific to the job and the company. For instance, a customer service representative will need to have conflict resolution skills and patience.

Also, Read Our Article On: How To Prepare for Interviews

How to Respond to the Question, “What is Your Greatest Strength?”

When faced with questions about your strengths, the most effective approach is to highlight the skills and experiences that directly align with the requirements of the job you are applying for.

So, to prepare for this common interview question, follow the below-mentioned steps carefully:

  1. Create a list of the eligibility criteria mentioned in the job posting.

  2. Identify your skills that match the employer’s sought-after qualities, which may include educational background, training, soft skills, hard skills, or relevant work experiences.

  3. Narrow down your list to focus on three to five particularly strong skills.

  4. For each skill, make a note of an example that demonstrates how you have successfully applied that strength in the past.

By going through this preparation, you will be ready to elaborate on any specific strength the employer asks about. You will be able to provide concrete examples during the job interview session. Your answers will showcase strengths that directly align with the company’s desired qualifications.

Furthermore, integrate these influential words that leave a positive impact into your answers. The greater the alignment between your skills and the specified job requirements, the higher your chances of securing a second interview or even receiving a job offer.

Tips for Giving “What is Your Strength” Best Answer for Freshers

  • Always be ready with your response. Compiling a list of your strengths that are relevant to the job will instill confidence when answering this question.

  • Highlight your main strengths. Concentrate on a few key strengths that directly correlate with the job position and the company. An answer that is focused and pertinent, accompanied by one or two examples, will leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.

  • Emphasize what you bring to the table. Keep your answer concise and centered on the attributes you can contribute to the job and the company. Your objective is to persuade the company that you are the ideal candidate they should hire.

Things You Need to Avoid while Answering “What is Your Strength?” in an Interview

Now is not the moment for modesty. While it is essential not to overstate your strengths, you should confidently express in a job interview what qualities make you an ideal candidate. However, it is equally important not to provide an extensive and vague list of strengths, as this may come across as boastful or arrogant.

As with any interview response, it is best to be concise and avoid rambling. Here are some examples of answers you should avoid:

  1. “I believe I am the most exceptional candidate you will ever come across. People consistently praise my extraordinary intelligence, dedication, and excellent communication skills.”

  2. “My greatest strengths include writing, project management, quantitative research, event planning, budget development, and social media.”

  3. “I am a remarkably skilled musician, the life of every party, and a masterful joke-teller. I handle challenges with ease and don’t take setbacks too seriously.”

  4. “Let me tell you about a situation in our fraternity when things were in disarray. The president had mishandled funds, and several members faced trouble due to hazing and excessive partying. I took charge, turned everything around, and now our fraternity is highly respected with no issues.”


Bonus TIPS TO CRACK JOB INTERVIEWS


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The Bottom Line On: What is your strength best answer sample


Job interviews can be nerve-wracking experiences, especially when faced with questions like "What are your strengths?" While it may seem like a simple job interview inquiry, crafting a compelling response requires thoughtful preparation and self-awareness. This crucial question offers an excellent opportunity to showcase your unique abilities and align them with the job's requirements. 

Responding to the question "What are your strengths?" is an opportunity to present yourself as the ideal candidate for the job. By thoroughly preparing, focusing on key strengths, providing specific examples, and aligning your response with the company's values, you can leave a lasting and positive impression on the interviewer. 

Remember to strike a balance between confidence and humility and tailor your responses to each job interview. By following these tips, you will be better equipped to showcase your strengths effectively and increase your chances of landing the job you desire.

Hope you liked this article on - How To Answer Basic Job Interview Questions.


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