Showcase Your Strengths
Every time you go in for an interview there are a few questions that are almost gaurunteed to be asked. One of those questions is "What are your strengths?" As cliche as it is, employers can learn a lot about a person by how you answer this question, what you think you're good at, and how easily you show that you understand yourself.
We all might spout out an answer like "My strengths are my ability to stay organized and work quickly." But, do you really know what your strengths are? Truly. Think about it--are you saying those things because you are 100% really great at them, or just because you know they will make you sound like an amazing candidate?
Knowing yourself.
Studies show that if you are using your strengths at work then you are more likely to be engaged and productive on a regular basis. When you're doing what you're best at then you're motivated to keep going, you get in a flow, and you really can zone in and understand what's going on. Your strengths can motivate you naturally in to getting things done and accomplishing them on time.So, since we want to really ace that interview, we have to be very introspective. Taking a look at yourself from as much of an objective view as possible will insure that you are truly answering this question correctly and letting your employer know what you are good at and what you would be best doing.
Taking the test.
Did you know that there are tests out there to help you figure out what your strengths are? Remember in high school how you completed that long and tedious survey that was supposed to tell you what job is perfect for you? Well, that's basically the same concept for these strengths tests. If you answer them honestly then you will be given a list of three or four top strengths and weaknesses that you exhibit.
These tests aren't set in stone. Sometimes when people take surveys of this nature they get upset because it's not what they wanted, or they focus on the outcome that they want so much that they choose answers to make that happen. But, you shouldn't look at tests like this as the perfect answer. This is just a tool to help you understand yourself from a more objective manner.
Be honest, be you.
In the end, no matter what you decide your strengths to be, make sure that you are honest and true to yourself. Lying about your strengths may make you fit in better with a company, but you won't be happy in the long run being someone that you're not. You are great just like you are, so be open and honest about what you're good at and what you're bad at!
What are your strengths? Do you use them to your best advantage on a daily basis? Let me know in the comment section below! Also, don't forget to follow me on Twitter.
