Ever wished you’ve thought about this question before going to the interview? Believe it or not, many applicants with great skill sets often stumble upon hearing this question.
To avoid stuttering, here are some tips to help you answer this interview question like a pro:
Start with the best trait you’re most proud of. Are you a team player? Perhaps you can adapt to any situation easily. If you thrive in a fluctuating environment and welcome new challenges on a daily basis, then feel free to share that with the hiring manager. Keep in mind that you must only mention these things if they really apply to you. (Lying will not serve you.)
Below are some of the positive traits that employers love:
- Innovating consistently
- Optimistic at all times
- Creative
- Excellent background and experience
- Behaves professionally
- Not scared to take action when needed
- Initiative
- High level of motivation
- Strong work ethic
Of course, the list can go on. Consider your inner strengths and list them on a piece of paper. This will help you organize your positive traits, and make it easier for you to determine what traits give you the greatest advantage over other applicants.
Avoid generic answers. Sure, you’re a team player and someone that works really hard. But your answer doesn’t have to sound plain and simple. Be spontaneous and cite some past experiences to prove your answer. (Hiring managers can easily spot candidates who have memorized their answers line by line.)
Practice, but don’t overdo it. It’s always good to practice your answers before the interview, but avoid sounding like a recording. Put some personality in your answer that will give you the little bit of spunk that you need.
Turn the negativity around. If you’ve just blurted out a negative trait unexpectedly, don’t allow the hiring manager to use it against you. Instead, think how the negative trait or remark helped you strive to become an even better employee. If you’reable to get your point across, congratulate yourself after the interview.
Be realistic. If you think you have all the traits every hiring manager wants, think again. Remember that no employee is ever going to be perfect. Set a limit on how to describe yourself. Keep in mind that you haven’t been hired yet. Evaluate your skills and explain your strengths in a way that won’t turn off the recruiter.
These simple tips should help you craft an answer on how to describe yourself. As long as you’re being true to yourself, there’s really no need to worry. Good luck on your next interview!
