A few of our favorites and why employers LOVE to hear about them.
You’re in your best suit jacket. An untouched water sits just outside your Zoom frame. And on your screen is the face of a hiring manager who has just asked you that dreaded question:
“What would you say are some of your strengths?”
It's a difficult question to answer, especially in the pressurized environment of a job interview. But there are plenty of vital skills you can (and should) mention that will give your potential employer more insight into who you are as an employee. While some (me) might refer to these abilities as a “vibe check,” recruiters prefer the phrase “soft skills.” It’s a term that was coined by the U.S. Army training as a way to differentiate from the “hard skills” of machinery and weapon operation – feel free to use that fun fact at your next dinner party. Soft skills are incredibly important as they are the interpersonal strengths that enhance an employee's ability to do their job. Knowledge of Microsoft Office and SEO is all well and good. But there is so much else to say when it comes to your talents– a whole heap, in fact. And many of those talents could flesh out how an employer sees you fitting within their organization. You just need to mention them!
ROGER THAT
Communication skills are a number one MUST mention in an interview. No one wants to work with someone who can’t get their ideas across. Remember, you don’t need to be the most talkative person in the room. Are you good with crafting clear emails and reports? Are you an active listener? Think about the ways you articulate your thoughts and respond to the input of others.
IN THE TRENCHES
Teamwork and collaboration are also a key skill in the workplace. Consider mentioning your ability to support your colleagues and contribute to the greater good. Perhaps there’s a time when you facilitated a group goal. Show them that, if hired, you’d be more than just a bench warmer.
MISSION CONTROL
Problem-solving is another great area to expand on. Bosses are always putting out fires, so proving you can pick up a hose and share that load can set you apart from other candidates. Try to think of a time you’ve found an effective solution to an issue in the workplace. No problem is too small! It’s all about taking initiative.
WING IT
Flexibility is a real buzzword these days in interviews. Employers LOVE to hear when someone is able to roll with the punches. A willingness to adapt to new challenges or changes is good to mention, especially for companies that are in the midst of any kind of transition. This could be anything from an upgraded technology system to a new leader to even a moving of the office location. If you’re someone who thrives in those spaces, say so!
But wait! There’s more! So many more. Take a look at the following, perhaps one of these soft skills speaks to your strengths. If so, they’re worth mentioning in your next interview:
-
WORK ETHIC & PROFESSIONALISM
-
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EQ)
-
TIME MANAGEMENT
-
CRITICAL THINKING
-
LEADERSHIP AND INITIATIVE
-
CREATIVITY
-
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
-
NETWORKING
-
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
-
NEGOTIATION SKILLS
-
STRESS MANAGEMENT
-
DECISION-MAKING SKILLS
-
SELF-AWARENESS