A reader involved in a job search just asked how to best answer the typical interview question ‘What are your strengths?’ This is a critical question because it usually comes early in the interview process, helps project focus and value and sets the tone of rest of the interview.
As part of my commitment to support the professional community, I regularly deliver pro bono presentations at several area job seeker organizations. One of my most popular topics is ‘Interview Communication Skills’, where I stress that each answer should be a mini-presentation. They should have a good, brief intro, a solid body with very specific and concise content and clear structure, and a solid conclusion. Answers should end, not just stop. Here’s a summary of my comments:
The “strengths’ questions ‘Introduction’ might be, “As you can tell from my resume, I bring a number of skills and strengths to this opportunity. Let me briefly highlight three that are very important to the position of ‘X – ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’. This shows that you have done research into the opportunity and that you know what the job is all about. It also makes it very easy for the interviewer to follow the flow of your comments. That’s the 10-15 second introduction.
Then, move into the ‘Body’ of the presentation’. Briefly describe each strength with specific examples and facts or numbers where possible. Indicate how you know each is strength – based on consistent customer comments, performance evaluation results, revenue increase or cost decrease, etc.
Please note, the ‘Body’ of this presentation is NOT an invitation to tell the poor interviewer everything you want to tell them about you. Instead, this is your opportunity to provide a concise answer showcasing what they need and want to know.
Finish with an enthusiastic ‘Conclusion’ – restating your three strengths and their important relevance to the position. Wait for the next question. After a long enough pause, ask if the interviewer wants more examples or details of the strengths you’ve just highlighted.
With your interview answer ‘Presentations’, adopt a ‘Twitter Mindset’ regarding brevity. Most answers ought to be 90 seconds or less and very focused and structured. Under the stress of the situation or because of lack of proper preparation, interviewees often talk too long and share too much information. Make points early in the game with your focused brevity and clarity.