Lesson 5 - I'm awesome - really I am

Chances are, you’ll be asked what your strengths and weaknesses are. And while it might be true that you can “conversate” or are good with people, you know, and are an “awesome multi-tasker,” they’re not very telling traits. In fact, simply saying you’re good or awesome at something (although don’t ever use the word “awesome” during an interview) doesn’t mean anything—unless you follow it up with a specific example of why you’re good.  If you’re good with people, give an example of how you managed a group of people or a difficult customer at a previous job. Demonstrate how this positive trait will benefit the company you’re applying to.

So what about your weaknesses? We all have them, but the trick is to turn them into a positive. Instead of saying you’re nonchalant, say that you’ve been known to be reserved in the workplace, but that this has helped you stay on top of stressful situations. And whatever you do, don’t say, “I work too hard.” That’s the oldest, most cliché thing people say as a “weakness” about themselves.

Whenever you’re asked what your strengths and weaknesses are, the trick is to be confident about yourself. Prepare your answers ahead of time so you’re ready to answer. Avoid empty descriptions like, “I’m good at this,” avoid, “you know,” “um,” and other expressions that convey uncertainty and avoid silence.

So what other questions should you expect in an interview, and how should you answer them? Check out the Common Interview Questions section for more info.