Interviewing 101: Amplify Your Strengths and Spin Your Weaknesses
The oldest interview mystery in the book is how to talk about your weaknesses without showing weakness. We’ve all heard the classic solutions- “I’m a perfectionist,” “I just work too hard,” or “I care too much.” Here at Northwestern Marketing Concepts, we know interviewers see right through these-and you do too. As a gift from us to you, today we are handing over some industry secrets on how to spin those weaknesses and amplify your strengths to sell yourself in every interview.
Strengths
- Strong Work Ethic
Interviewers don’t expect candidates to have all of the skills necessary for the job, but some qualities cannot be taught. Work ethic is something that an interviewee won’t pick up in new-employee orientation, or on the job training. Showing an interviewer that you have a strong work ethic and a sense of eagerness will set you apart from those less enthusiastic candidates.
- Adaptability
Very few jobs will have you working on the same exact task every day for the entirety of your career. A valuable employee is a versatile employee and proving to the company that you are adaptable and have the ability to complete any number of tasks immediately elevates your value in the workplace.
- I Have Experience
Nothing speaks louder than tangible experience. “I am a strong writer,” versus “I have 4 years of editorial writing experience for an on-campus magazine in college,” is the difference between night and day for an interviewer.
- Personal Investment in My Work
Simply put, you will not convince an interviewer to believe in your ability if you don’t. Confidence and investment in your own work speak volumes in an interview and in the workplace after you inevitably snag the job.
Weaknesses
- Non-Confrontational
No interviewer wants to bring in an explosive employee. Being “non-confrontational” is an honest and valid weakness, without being a detriment to the business or company culture. Also, conflict resolution skills are gained through experience- so this weakness is not necessarily with you for life, thus completely safe for an interview.
- I Struggle Delegating Tasks
This is essentially the “nicer” way to be a self-proclaimed control freak. The inability to relinquish control is a valid weakness, but at the same time, it shows personal investment and dedication in your work.
- I Juggle Multiple Projects at a Time
While the inability to focus on one project at a time can be a weakness that clutters up your mental state and your desktop, it also can be seen as a strength by companies with fast-paced environments that are accustomed to regularly juggling multiple projects or accounts.
- People Pleaser
The inability to make independent decisions for fear of disappointing a supervisor or a boss is a detrimental weakness, but it is not one that will send an interviewer running-in fact your eagerness to please might make you an even more attractive candidate for the company.
With these tips, you are sure to ace the next interview and share your weaknesses with pride. From all of us here at Northwestern Marketing Concepts, we wish you good luck!
