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My Strengths Essay

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How To Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength?” [With Examples]

Table Of Contents

Why do employers ask about strengths , how to answer “what is your greatest strength” , perform a self-assessment, match your strengths to the role, use the star technique, “what is your greatest strength” answer examples, list of strengths, mistakes to avoid when answering “what is your greatest strength”, making statements without offering proof, body language mistakes , sticking to the script , the bottom line.

In theory, it should be easy to answer the job interview question, “What is your greatest strength?” If you've done your interview prep–and of course you have–you’ve spent plenty of time reviewing your top skills, qualifications, and work experience.

But in practice, talking about what you’re good at can be tricky. Most of us are conditioned not to brag. It’s challenging to present your strengths in a way that doesn’t seem arrogant, falsely humble, or out of touch.

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To make sure you’re ready to answer this tough job interview question , it can help to know why employers ask questions like this. Then, you can formulate potential answers and practice delivering them until you feel comfortable.

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Asking about strengths may seem unnecessary. After all, the interviewer has your resume in front of them. If they didn’t like what they saw, why would you even be in this job interview?

But employers ask about strengths for several reasons beyond just wanting to know about your skills and qualifications. They’re trying to get a sense of the following:

• Do you know your best qualifications and abilities? Answering the strengths question requires self-awareness and the ability to assess your proficiencies. Hiring managers use this question to find out whether you understand your top skills.
• Do your strengths match their requirements? Companies hire employees to solve problems.  Interviewers want to know if your skill set is a match for their goals and needs.
• Will you be a good fit? The ideal candidate will have strengths that complement the team’s strengths and supplement their weaknesses . Employers ask about strengths to assess whether you’ll work well with your prospective coworkers. They also want to know if you’ll fit into the company culture.

This job interview question is an opportunity to showcase your most valuable skills, abilities, and qualifications. To make sure you take advantage of this chance to impress the hiring manager, do the following:

Ask yourself a few questions:

• What are your most valuable work-related skills?
• How did you develop these abilities?
• How has your skill set evolved over time?
• How do you use these proficiencies to solve problems at work?

If you have time, you might also consider asking your current or former colleagues about your strengths at work. You might be surprised at the skills and abilities they highlight. (Plus, it’s always good to go into a job interview with a reminder that you’re a valuable teammate.)

Take a look at the job description and any notes from phone screens or pre-interview research. How do your strengths match with the company’s needs and how would you use those strengths to solve their problems and achieve their goals?

Research from Checkster , a reference checking software company, finds that 78% of candidates lie during the job application process. But just because lying is common, doesn’t mean it’s acceptable–or likely to help you further your career.

Lying about your strengths can come back to haunt you in several ways:

• You could get caught in an inconsistency during the interview process and be dropped from contention.
• Your skills gaps might become apparent once you’re on the job, leading the company to terminate your employment.
• You might land the job and keep it–only to find out that you’ve finagled your way into a role that you don’t enjoy.

Join The Break Community

Human beings are wired for stories. We like narrative structure, cause and effect, and proof of concept. The STAR interview method helps you demonstrate, not just describe, your skills and abilities so that the hiring manager can visualize you using your proficiencies at the company.

STAR stands for:

• Situation (where you were working, what role you had, and any other factors involved)
• Task (the problem you solved)
• Action (what you did to solve the problem)
• Result (the outcome–bonus points if you can quantify it in terms of time, money, etc.)

Your answers to this question will vary depending on your experience and qualifications, as well as the requirements of the job. But these sample answers can help you brainstorm your own.

“My greatest strength is empathy. When I’m dealing with customer complaints, I’m able to really put myself in their shoes and understand how this issue is affecting them. As a result, I’ve been able to maintain my department's highest complaint resolution numbers for the past three quarters.”

“I believe that my greatest strength is flexibility. I’m one of those rare folks who genuinely enjoys change, which is why I like working at startups like your company. You’re never in the same job for long, regardless of whether your job title stays the same. In my current job, I’ve been able to learn social media management, design work, and several project management systems. I love the chance to keep learning.”

“My greatest strength is resilience. I bounce back from challenges and come away with new knowledge about my work, my team, and myself. My last employer underwent a major restructuring and I worked on three teams in six months. At one point, I was briefly assigned to assist the software development team and discovered that this was the place I wanted to build my career. I’ve spent the past few months taking classes, pursuing independent study, and earning certifications.”

Not sure which strengths to highlight in your next job interview? This list may inspire you:

• Attention to detail
• Collaboration
• Communication skills
• Emotional intelligence
• Entrepreneurial
• Flexibility
• Problem-solving
• Time management

Again, the biggest mistake you can make at a job interview is to be less than honest. But assuming that you’re prepared to be forthright and that you’ve done your homework, it’s easy to avoid the other pitfalls of talking about strengths.

Be positive and confident, not arrogant. Remember that you’re trying to help the hiring manager visualize you in the role, and that means coming across as someone who is enjoyable to work with. Avoid statements that rely on hyperbole, e.g., “I’m the best salesman in the world,” or that are difficult to back up.

The STAR technique helps demonstrate that you can do what you say you can do. It will also keep you from writing checks your skill set can’t cash.

Keep your answers concise and to the point. Notice if you’re starting to speak quickly or stray from the story at hand. Take a deep breath when you need it and don’t be afraid of pauses. Ask for clarification when you need it.

Especially if you’re a nervous interviewer, it’s easy to send one message with your words and a very different message with your body language. Sit up straight, avoid fidgeting, and maintain an open and friendly posture. If you’re interviewing with multiple people, remember to address and make eye contact with each of them in turn.

Practice answering this and other questions during your job interview prep, but don’t forget that an interview is a conversation. Be prepared to be flexible, listen to the interviewer, and adapt as the conversation unfolds. You’ll make a better impression and get a real sense of whether you connect with the hiring manager, as well.

Related: How To Answer “What Is Your Greatest Weakness?”

To talk about your strengths in job interviews with ease, remember that hiring managers want to hear about your talents, skills, and experience. By coming to the interview prepared to highlight your top qualifications, you’ll make their job easier, as well as improve the chances that you’ll land your next position.

Ready to find a job that builds on your strengths? Check out ZipRecruiter and find employers who are eager to hire applicants just like you.

Jen Hubley Luckwaldt

Jen is a content editor and writer with over 15 years of experience in the careers, personal finance, and small business space. She has previously written for The Balance and about.com, and now tackles all things hiring for Careercloud. Jen has a BA in English from the University of Massachusetts - Amherst.

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How to Answer “What’s Your Greatest Strength?” (Plus Examples!)

Among the other interview classics—like “ Tell me about yourself ,” “ Where do you see yourself in 10 years ?” and “ What are some of your weaknesses ?”—“What is your greatest strength?” seems like a pretty innocuous question.

But that doesn’t mean you can skip preparing for it. In fact, answer it well, and it’s one of the best ways you can show off your skills and stand out among other candidates.

Here how to do just that.

How to answer “What are your greatest strengths?”

The great news is that answering this interview question really boils down to two basic steps:

1. Choose a strength (or strengths).

Think strategically about what skills will position you as qualified for the job and a good addition to the company. Does the position require client interaction? Communication and relationship building make sense. Or if the environment is fast-paced and constantly evolving—your ability to multitask, adapt, and learn quickly would be good to highlight. A great way to approach this question is to think about skills you really want to emphasize during the interview, but haven’t had the chance to talk about yet.

You can also use this question to show that you’d really add to the company culture. Assuming you’ve done the crucial legwork of researching the company prior to interviewing, you should have a good sense of how the company perceives its own uniqueness. One company might be known for caring about loyalty. Another company might be notorious for how much it values open communication. Of course, you can only use this strategy if your personal values do truly align with the company’s.

To walk that line between confident and arrogant , definitely don’t just list a bunch of nice adjectives to describe yourself. Instead choose one to three attributes you want to mention (depending on whether the question asks for one strength or multiple) and cap it there. The worst response I’ve ever heard to this question was a full minute-long monologue during which the interviewee proceeded to list a string of positive attributes (outgoing, detail-oriented, hardworking, independent, friendly, easy-going, you name it) and just kept talking. One of the adjectives chosen was actually “humble.” I was speechless.

2. Back your strengths up with stories.

What’s more important than the strengths you choose is being able to back up your claims. Don’t just expect the interviewer to believe you without some evidence.

Start off by answering the question directly, and then segue into a story that shows off your skills. Make sure that you give any needed context for your interviewer to understand the story, describe clearly how you used your strength to solve a problem or improve something for your team or company, and share the impact that it had.

For example, your answer could sound like:

“I think some of my greatest strengths are my communication skills and willingness to take initiative. During my last internship, when I was helping to manage several social media accounts, I made sure that everyone on the team was on the same page and knew what our messaging strategy was by taking the initiative to send out a weekly email to keep the team up to date and to seek feedback. This ended up being so helpful that the weekly social media update was incorporated into a full-time staff member’s responsibilities.”

Read More: The Best Way to Talk About Your Strengths and Weaknesses in a Job Interview

50+ example strengths to talk about in a job interview

Struggling to think of one (or two or three) strengths to talk about in your interview? Here’s a list of examples. But keep in mind that these are fairly broad, so you’ll want to make sure you have stories to show how they’re specifically helpful for this job at this organization.

Analytical strengths

These strengths aren’t just important if you’re interviewing for a job with analyst in the title:

• Coming up with innovative solutions
• Interpreting data and/or results
• Making decisions
• Noticing small details
• Recognizing patterns
• Solving problems
• Thinking critically
• Troubleshooting
• Visualizing data

Communication strengths

If you’ll have to interact with anyone inside or outside the organization, your communication skills will be vital.

• Building relationships
• Communicating in writing
• De-escalating conflict
• Giving constructive feedback
• Handling tough conversations
• Listening actively
• Making conversation with new people
• Negotiating
• Providing customer service
• Speaking or writing persuasively
• Speaking to groups of people
• Telling stories
• Writing clearly

Management strengths

Whether or not you’ll be in a formal management role, showing your strengths as they come to leading others could pay off.

• Being aware of disabilities
• Being aware of diversity
• Creating roadmaps
• Focusing on the process
• Focusing on the results
• Handling conflicts
• Identifying employee strengths and weaknesses
• Managing projects
• Motivating employees
• Mentoring employees
• Setting deadlines
• Setting realistic goals

Teamwork strengths

Before choosing one of these strengths, think of how you’ll most likely be working with teams in this role.

• Accepting and incorporating feedback
• Being dependable
• Being willing to go above and beyond to help others
• Communicating across functions
• Having high emotional intelligence
• Noticing when others need help
• Responding to changes in a situation
• Taking charge when needed

Work style strengths

These strengths are more about how you approach things and get them done and they’re a great way to show you’d work well with a team already in place.

• Being adaptable
• Being proactive
• Collaborating with others
• Finding creative solutions
• Focusing on the small details
• Focusing on the big picture
• Multitasking
• Prioritizing
• Switching between different tasks quickly
• Self motivating
• Working well under pressure

Job-specific strengths

Depending on your job function and where you’ll be working, there are likely to be some highly specific strengths you have that would really add to the team or the workplace. Consider if you have strengths in any of these areas.

• Bringing experience with a problem that the company is currently facing
• Bringing knowledge to the table from another area or field that you may encounter frequently (for example, maybe you’re a marketer with sales knowledge, a data analyst who can spot grammar issues in presentations and reports, or someone who’s fluent in a second language commonly spoken by clients or customers)
• Expertly using a common piece of software
• Offering unique but valuable talents or skills that not many people have (for example, knowledge of a new software or quickly changing field)
• Spotting specific types of errors

Sample answers to “What is your greatest strength?”

Here are a few more example answers to questions about your greatest strengths:

A greatest strength answer about identifying patterns

“I’d say that one of my greatest strengths is identifying patterns. For example, as a junior operations analyst, I noticed that at a company my team was consulting for, mistakes tended to happen in clusters, but not always on the same days of the week or ahead of deadlines. But then, looking at the company’s meeting schedule, I noticed that all of the clusters happened on days where there was a staff meeting from 3 to 4 p.m. I realized that after these meetings, people must be either rushing to finish by 5 p.m. or not fully focusing after a meeting so late in the day. Once I pointed this out, the company made a policy where all larger meetings had to be over by 3 p.m., and these spikes in mistakes disappeared, leading to a 15% decrease in refunds.”

A greatest strength answer about building relationships

“My greatest strength is probably my ability to build strong relationships with my clients. I love meeting and getting to know new people so I always approach each new account as an opportunity to make a new work friend. By asking questions about my contacts and really listening to their answers, I’m usually able to build a strong rapport and I credit these relationships with my 90% renewal rate. I’ve even had contacts from clients move to different companies and then request to work with me again.”

A greatest strength answer about putting yourself in someone else's shoes

“I think that one of my biggest strengths is being able to identify questions and issues that our users will have surrounding a new product or feature. I’m good at putting myself in the shoes of different types of users, and flagging questions the product team may not have accounted for. Sometimes they’re able to fix these issues, but even if they can’t, the product marketing team can be proactive about addressing them. One time, a new product launch necessitated removing the live chat functionality from our website, which made sense from a product perspective but not from a customer service perspective. I knew people were going to have questions about both the new product and our existing products and being able to respond to them quickly is key. Unfortunately the product team wasn’t able to have the chat function ready in time, but they were able to make other ways to contact us more visible on every page of the site and we were able to prioritize answering user emails while the chat function was gone.

A greatest strength answer about emotional awareness and teamwork

“I’m good at reading people, and especially at recognizing when they need help. In a senior business class, we had a group project where each person needed to give a five-minute segment of our presentation in front of a large group. From the first meeting, I could tell that one student was especially uncomfortable with the idea of speaking in front of a crowd, so when it came time to pick our sections, I directed the conversation so that he’d be able to choose what he was most comfortable talking about. I also reached out to him later in the process and asked if he’d like to do some practice sessions together. He was eager to, and he was able to open up about his social anxiety one-on-one. I listened to his concerns, encouraged him, and gave him pointers. We even arranged a few group practices where we each invited friends to watch so that our graded presentation wouldn’t be the first time we were speaking in front of a group of strangers. We ended up acing the project and the other student and I are now close friends, and I know he’s now working at a job where he needs to give presentations regularly.”

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “What’s your greatest strength?” Your best bet in preparing for the “strengths” question (and questions like it) is to have your talking points prepared and a lot of good stories to turn to. Use open questions like this strategically, and then make sure your answer’s memorable by telling an awesome story. With a bit of preparation, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of this question—and get one step closer to landing the job.

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

Essay Curve

Essay on My Strength – Samples, 10 Lines to 1500 Words

Essay on My Strength: Strength is a quality that defines who we are and shapes our character. In this essay, I will delve into the depths of my own strengths and how they have helped me navigate through life’s challenges. From resilience to determination, each strength plays a crucial role in shaping my identity and guiding me towards success. Join me on this introspective journey as I explore the power of my strengths and how they have shaped me into the person I am today.

Table of Contents

My Strength Essay Writing Tips

1. Start by brainstorming a list of your strengths. Consider both personal qualities and skills that you possess. This could include things like being organized, being a good communicator, or having a strong work ethic.

2. Choose a few key strengths to focus on in your essay. It’s better to go into depth on a few strengths rather than trying to cover too many in a superficial way.

3. Begin your essay with a strong introduction that captures the reader’s attention. You could start with a personal anecdote or a quote that relates to your strengths.

4. Use specific examples to illustrate each of your strengths. For example, if one of your strengths is being a good problem solver, you could talk about a time when you successfully resolved a difficult situation at work or school.

5. Provide context for your strengths. Explain how they have helped you in various aspects of your life, such as in your career, relationships, or personal growth.

6. Reflect on how your strengths have developed over time. Have you always been a good communicator, or did you have to work on this skill? Discuss any challenges you have faced in developing your strengths.

7. Consider how your strengths set you apart from others. What makes you unique or special because of these qualities? How do they contribute to your overall success and happiness?

8. Conclude your essay by summarizing your key strengths and emphasizing how they have shaped you as a person. You could also discuss how you plan to continue developing and utilizing these strengths in the future.

9. Proofread your essay carefully to check for any errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling. Make sure your writing is clear and concise, and that your ideas flow logically from one to the next.

10. Finally, consider asking a friend, family member, or teacher to read over your essay and provide feedback. They may be able to offer suggestions for improvement or help you clarify your ideas.

Essay on My Strength in 10 Lines – Examples

1. My physical strength is evident in my ability to lift heavy objects and perform strenuous tasks. 2. I have strong mental strength, allowing me to stay focused and determined in the face of challenges. 3. My emotional strength enables me to remain resilient and positive in difficult situations. 4. I possess strong communication skills, which help me effectively convey my thoughts and ideas. 5. I have a strong work ethic, always putting in my best effort and striving for excellence. 6. My problem-solving skills are strong, allowing me to find creative solutions to complex problems. 7. I exhibit strong leadership qualities, inspiring and motivating others to achieve their goals. 8. I have strong organizational skills, enabling me to manage my time and responsibilities effectively. 9. My interpersonal skills are strong, making it easy for me to build and maintain relationships with others. 10. Overall, my strength lies in my ability to adapt, learn, and grow in any situation.

Sample Essay on My Strength in 100-180 Words

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to stay calm and composed in difficult situations. I have always been able to keep a level head and think rationally, even when faced with challenges or obstacles. This allows me to approach problems with a clear mind and come up with effective solutions.

Additionally, I am a very organized and detail-oriented person. I have a strong attention to detail and always strive for perfection in everything I do. This helps me to stay on top of tasks and responsibilities, and ensures that I deliver high-quality work.

Furthermore, I am a good communicator and have strong interpersonal skills. I am able to effectively convey my thoughts and ideas to others, and work well in team settings. This allows me to build strong relationships with colleagues and collaborate effectively on projects.

Overall, my strengths of staying calm under pressure, being organized and detail-oriented, and having strong communication skills have helped me succeed in both my personal and professional life.

Short Essay on My Strength in 200-500 Words

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to stay calm and composed in stressful situations. I have always been able to keep a level head and think rationally, even when faced with difficult challenges or unexpected obstacles. This strength has served me well in both my personal and professional life, allowing me to navigate through tough times with grace and resilience.

In times of crisis, I am able to remain focused and make decisions quickly and decisively. I do not let my emotions cloud my judgment, but instead rely on logic and reason to guide me through difficult situations. This has helped me to effectively problem-solve and find solutions to complex problems, even when under pressure.

Furthermore, my ability to stay calm under pressure has also helped me to be a strong leader and team player. I am able to inspire confidence in others and provide a sense of stability and reassurance during times of uncertainty. This has allowed me to effectively lead teams and collaborate with others to achieve common goals, even in high-stress environments.

In addition, my calm demeanor has also helped me to build strong relationships with others. I am able to listen attentively and offer support and guidance when needed, without getting overwhelmed by the emotions of others. This has allowed me to be a trusted confidante and advisor to friends, family, and colleagues, and has helped me to foster strong and lasting connections with those around me.

Overall, my ability to stay calm and composed in stressful situations is a valuable strength that has helped me to navigate through life’s challenges with grace and resilience. It has allowed me to make sound decisions, lead effectively, and build strong relationships with others. I am grateful for this strength and will continue to cultivate it as I move forward in my personal and professional journey.

Essay on My Strength in 1000-1500 Words

Strength is defined as the quality or state of being physically strong, mental power, or the capacity to resist force or pressure. It is an attribute that is highly valued in society and can manifest in various forms. Personally, I believe that my greatest strength lies in my ability to persevere in the face of challenges and adversity.

Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous obstacles and setbacks that have tested my resolve and determination. From academic struggles to personal hardships, I have faced a wide range of difficulties that have pushed me to my limits. However, instead of giving up or succumbing to defeat, I have always found a way to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

One of the key reasons for my resilience in the face of adversity is my positive mindset. I have always believed in the power of optimism and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even in the darkest of times. This mindset has allowed me to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than insurmountable obstacles. By focusing on the potential for personal development and self-improvement, I have been able to approach difficult situations with a sense of determination and optimism.

In addition to my positive mindset, another strength that has helped me persevere in the face of challenges is my ability to adapt and be flexible. Life is unpredictable and full of unexpected twists and turns, and being able to adapt to changing circumstances is crucial for success. Whether it is adjusting to a new environment, learning a new skill, or navigating a difficult situation, I have always been able to adapt quickly and effectively. This flexibility has allowed me to overcome obstacles and setbacks with ease, and has enabled me to thrive in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, my strong work ethic and determination have also played a significant role in my ability to persevere in the face of challenges. I have always been a hard worker, willing to put in the time and effort necessary to achieve my goals. Whether it is studying late into the night for an exam, practicing tirelessly for a sports competition, or working long hours on a project at work, I have always been willing to go the extra mile to succeed. This work ethic has allowed me to push through difficult times and emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side.

Another strength that has helped me persevere in the face of challenges is my ability to stay focused and maintain a sense of purpose. In the midst of difficult times, it can be easy to lose sight of one’s goals and become overwhelmed by the obstacles in one’s path. However, I have always been able to stay focused on my objectives and maintain a clear sense of purpose, even in the face of adversity. By keeping my eye on the prize and reminding myself of the reasons why I am working towards my goals, I have been able to stay motivated and determined, even when the going gets tough.

In addition to my positive mindset, adaptability, work ethic, and focus, another strength that has helped me persevere in the face of challenges is my ability to seek support and guidance from others. I have always been willing to reach out to friends, family, teachers, mentors, and colleagues for advice, encouragement, and assistance when facing difficult times. By surrounding myself with a strong support network of people who care about me and want to see me succeed, I have been able to weather the storms of life with grace and resilience. The encouragement and guidance of others have helped me stay motivated, focused, and determined, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

In conclusion, my greatest strength lies in my ability to persevere in the face of challenges and adversity. Through my positive mindset, adaptability, work ethic, focus, and willingness to seek support from others, I have been able to overcome numerous obstacles and setbacks in my life. By approaching difficult situations with determination, optimism, and resilience, I have been able to emerge stronger and more resilient on the other side. I am confident that my ability to persevere in the face of challenges will continue to serve me well in the future, as I navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and determination.

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Articles & Advice > College Admission > Articles

How to Find Your Strengths for College Application Essays

Everyone has strengths, even if you can't think of any right now! Here's how to identify your best and write about them in your college admission essays.

by Dia Huth CollegeXpress Student Writer

Last Updated: Jan 30, 2024

Originally Posted: Sep 2, 2015

One year ago, I was exactly where you are right now. Okay, maybe I wasn’t sitting in front of your laptop, but I was working hard on my college applications, trying (sometimes desperately) to answer all of those tough questions: Where did I see myself in five years? Why did I want to attend this college? And, hardest of all, what personal strengths would I add to the college community? This last question came in many different wordings, but it was always there, and it was always the most challenging for me. Honestly, sometimes I thought I didn’t have any strengths!

Time for the good news: I did have strengths, and they helped me get where I am today—sitting in a comfy chair in the library of my dream university, to be specific. Time for the even better news: you can lock in on your strengths and achieve your college goals too. And we’re gonna start right now with some questions you can ask yourself to figure it all out.

What have you overcome?

You have to be strong to overcome challenges, and a good first step toward finding your strengths is to look at the obstacles you’ve faced in life. Perhaps you’ve struggled with a health problem, like a physical or mental illness, or maybe you  fought against bullying in your high school . If nothing immediately comes to mind, look back at where you were a year ago, five years ago, 10 years ago. How have you changed since then? What lessons have you learned? Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But, Dia, all the obstacles people talk about in essays are huge. I don’t have any of those.” And I know what you mean. You may have read some essays about people at the forefront of a natural disaster, or people learning how to walk or simply hold a pencil again. Those are huge obstacles, and those stories are amazingly inspirational, but they aren’t the only ones out there. 

I didn’t have a story like that—or so I thought. At first glance, I’m pretty much your run-of-the-mill girl. But I needed to zero in on my strengths, so my solution was using the “five years ago” trick. It allowed me to see a massive change in my life: I had made amazing strides in healing my social anxiety. That might not seem like much, but it was “huge” in my life. Your obstacle might be along those lines too! Struggles come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe you overcame your stage fright to have a teeny tiny part in a school play like you’ve always wanted. No matter what kind of obstacle you’ve faced, coping with it shows your strength and drive. Think about  how you have overcome that obstacle: did it require diligence? Courage? Persistence? Those are wonderful traits that you can highlight in your admission essay.

Related: Top College Essay Tips From Admission Insiders

What do you enjoy?

The second way to find your strengths is a little easier. All you have to do is answer this question: If you could spend a day exactly the way you wanted to, what would you do? Think about the activities you instinctively turn toward when you want to relax or have a great time. These activities are “hints” at what your strengths are! Do you like to spend time with others? You’re social and might have strengths in communication. Do you enjoy volunteering? You like to help others , which shows compassion. Do you like to read or write? That shows communication skills as well as strengths like diligence and organization. Sports can show teamwork and persistence; a love of travel can show an appreciation of different cultures and a sense of adventure. Make a list of what you enjoy and brainstorm what each activity might say about you. It’s okay to “brag” a little here—just make sure that you are honest with yourself! You have strengths, and it’s okay to not have strengths in every single area that I’ve covered. We’re all wired differently.

What do people tell you?

For this third admission essay tactic, think about the people you trust. What do they have to say about your strengths and skills? Feel free to ask them too! You aren’t looking for endless praise; you’re just asking for help identifying your strengths. If you aren’t comfortable asking someone in person, shoot them a text or a Facebook message. I would recommend turning to your parents, your best friend, your youth leader, or anyone else who routinely lifts you up and makes you feel better about yourself. Sometimes, people tell you about your strengths without calling them by name. For example, let’s say that the president of your club asked you to be the club’s treasurer. He may not have said, “You’re so amazing at math, I need you to be our treasurer,” but the invitation can point to strengths in organization or financial skills!

Related: What Do Admission Counselors Look for in College Applications?

What stories do you have?

This is an important step of the essay-writing process, even if you've already found your strengths. What stories can you tell? Do you still remember the day you decided you wanted to work in a particular industry? Did you always help your grandmother cook dinner when you were a kid? Strong stories, anecdotes, and memories can help you identify your strengths, and they make interesting essays. Beginning an essay with a story that catches your reader’s attention; then, for your conclusion, all you have to do is finish the story and reiterate how it demonstrates your point!

If you can’t think of any stories, spend some time scrolling through your social media feed or flipping through photo albums. You might look back in your diary if you keep one. I’ve also found that parents and grandparents are usually excellent at telling stories or reminiscing over fun times! The best part about these stories is that they fit in with everything else discussed here. If you have overcome a challenge, odds are there's a story behind it! If you enjoy a certain hobby, I know you can think of a particularly memorable time when you did that activity. A conversation with a trusted person might bring up a story too. For example, your best friend might remind you that you’re always a positive thinker, which you demonstrated the time you and she were stuck in traffic for two hours.

Related: 5 Ways to Brainstorm Your College Essays

As you work on identifying your personal strengths for your college applications and essays, remember that they are there, and they all matter! While we all have different strengths, there isn’t such a thing as a “more important” strength. The world can’t run without leaders, but it also can’t run without compassionate people, good listeners, adventurers, and original thinkers either. Wherever your strengths lie, they are valuable, and they will be an excellent addition to whatever campus community is right for you.

Find more advice on strengthening your admission essays (and your writing in general) in our Application Essay Clinic .

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About Dia Huth

Dia has been writing for, roughly speaking, forever. Her first stories were about 162 imaginary ponies that “lived” in her backyard, but now she has graduated to penning sci-fi novels and tweeting like a madwoman. After a cross-country move her senior year of high school, she’s proud to be a part of Campbell University ’s Class of 2019! Besides writing, she loves art, pilates, and foreign films.

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•   Best Ways to Prepare for 5 Different Supplemental Essays
•   How to Write an Effective, Powerful Personal Statement
•   Don't Use Your English Paper as a College Essay
•   6 of the Worst College Admission Essay Myths You Shouldn't Listen To
•   Top College Essay Tips From Admission Insiders

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How to Showcase Your Strengths in Your College Application Essays

Your admission essay is an adcom’s greatest insight into who you are as a person. It can also be a tool to showcase your high school accomplishments. So, how can you craft an essay that both conveys your personality and portrays your strengths—without coming off as arrogant? Here are four tips to guide you.

1. Paint a picture.

This is a phrase that English teachers have drilled into your head, but it’s true for your college essay and in all your written work. Painting a picture of your accomplishments through examples and rhetorical devices helps adcoms visualize the steps you’ve taken to get to where you are today and the person you are and strive to be.

How can you show rather than tell? There are many ways to express yourself through language, from personalized metaphors —actions, experiences, or objects that mirror and symbolize your journey—to rich, vivid details. This is especially true in your essay, but you can also employ these rhetorical devices and language throughout your application, such as in your extracurricular accomplishment descriptions.

For instance, if you’re a pianist, you might use imagery to describe the progression of your musical development, initially exploring playing one note at a time to learning how to play the music you play today. You could evoke specific sounds and melodies to illustrate this development.

2. Use action-oriented verbs.

Rather than relying on soft adjectives, use action verbs like “implemented,” “facilitated,” and so on. These types of words are much more powerful and demonstrate that you do and make things happen. They also emphasize your ownership of your achievements, signifying that these achievements don’t just happen to you: you made them happen.

For example, rather than saying that you were responsible for speaking on behalf of the student body as student council president, you might say, “Raised awareness of X issue and implemented a procedure for handling complaints.”

3. Offer examples and details.

Examples are an essential feature of your essay. They illustrate your accomplishments, provide context, and show adcoms how you’ve made an impact in concrete ways. You should also use numerical values and other details to quantify your accomplishments.

In this post on successful activity entries, students use details to summarize and portray their accomplishments. While this post concerns another section of your application, you can apply the same concepts to your essay.

Example: “Provided homework and study help to underprivileged kids. I studied with one girl until her Cs became As. I love being the “go-to” mentor.”

Here, the applicant shows the impact of her tutoring, rather than simply stating that she tutored. In doing so, she demonstrates the impact on both her and the students she tutored.

Example: “I have been studying piano and performing in recitals since kindergarten. I’m currently working on Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F minor from Opus 2.”

This entry shows the progression of the applicant’s work by demonstrating how far she has come, exemplified by the challenging piece she’s currently playing.

These examples bring your experiences to life, so you’re not just listing achievements but also quantifying them and pointing to concrete ways in which they’ve affected you and others.

4. Tell a story.

Like any good story, your essay should have a narrative arc. Instead of a list of achievements, it should portray an experience that shaped you. No matter what topic you choose, you should be able to tell an account that captures your reader’s attention and has all the hallmarks of a compelling narrative.

For instance, if you’re a first-generation student, you might begin by describing a specific moment in your childhood when you realized that you would be the first member of your family to attend college and then narrate specific events along your journey, such as encouragement from your parents or teachers, difficulties you faced and how you overcame them, and how you finally reached this moment and are excited about the next chapter. This is much more effective than simply stating that you’re a first-generation student and listing the reasons why attending college is important to you.

If you can’t weave together a compelling story with the topic you’ve chosen, you may want to rethink it. Spend some time brainstorming to hone your topic and ensure that it is one that will both capture your audience and showcase your accomplishments.

Your Essay: A Reflection of You

Your essay is a concise glimpse into you as a person. While other areas of your application detail your accomplishments, grades, and extracurricular achievements, this is a place to showcase your qualities as a person. Still, your accomplishments are most likely integral to your personality. Keep these tips in mind as you craft an essay that both captures your character and your strengths as a candidate for admission.

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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How to Write an Essay About Your Strengths & Weaknesses

While you may be asked to write an essay about your strengths and weaknesses for an English course, this type of essay is more commonly requested for scholarship and school applications. Whoever its audience may be, the essay must have a focus, be well-organized and should paint a truthful and insightful picture of you.

Your essay should have a focus from the start. This will avoid turning the paper into no more than a list of strengths and weaknesses. The main point is expressed through the thesis statement, which should be included in the introduction of the essay. For example, you can write, "It was through my biggest failure as an older brother that I discovered my greatest strength." Or you can write, "While being a perfectionist is in many ways a strength, it also can be a weakness."

Organization

Make an outline charting the course of the essay before you write it. Begin with the thesis statement, then note the points you will make in each body of the paragraph. Make certain these points support the essay's main idea and that they are distinct from one another. List the evidence you will include in the body under each paragraph's topic sentence. Once it's complete, writing the essay will be more organized and quick, and you can flesh out the notes you made in the outline.

The content of the essay can address your achievements, failures and values. Show how the strengths and weaknesses you present are related to your personality, goals, relationships and work ethic. You can write about a specific experience that has changed you or taught you something new about yourself or life in general. Be honest and provide details, analysis and evidence. In the case of a scholarship essay, the Borough of Manhattan Community College advises that it should be "about you, your ideals, and/or your opinions."

To write a strong essay, you always should write more than one draft. After the essay is complete, read through it carefully to identify spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as to verify that you have properly addressed the prompt. You also can show your essay to a peer or instructor for review to make certain there are no confusing or unclear aspects. Finally, incorporate all the feedback into a rewrite of the first draft. The revision should be more developed, organized and polished than the original.

• Borough of Manhattan Community College: Writing the Scholarship Essay/Personal Statement

Soheila Battaglia is a published and award-winning author and filmmaker. She holds an MA in literary cultures from New York University and a BA in ethnic studies from UC Berkeley. She is a college professor of literature and composition.

• Interview >

What Are Your Greatest Strengths? [Interview Answer Examples]

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Unlocking the secret to acing interviews starts with understanding and confidently articulating your greatest strengths. Interviewers often ask "What are your greatest strengths?" during job interviews. It's a great opportunity for you to highlight your skills and experience, and to show the interviewer why you are the best candidate for the job.

When answering this interview question, it's important to be specific and to provide examples of how you have used your strengths to achieve success in the past. You should also choose strengths that are relevant to the job you are interviewing for.

In this blog, we are diving into the art of showcasing your unique abilities with flair and finesse. Discover how to showcase your talents like a pro with real-life answer examples that will leave employers nodding in awe. From communication wizards to problem-solving superheroes, find your strength, own your narrative, and land that dream job with confidence.

Confused about writing your strengths and weaknesses in your resume? Get a FREE Resume Assessment at InspiredResume

Understanding Strengths

In the realm of professional development, strengths are integral components that contribute significantly to an individual's success. These attributes go beyond mere skills or competencies; they encapsulate innate qualities and capabilities that not only enable someone to perform tasks proficiently but also set them apart in their chosen field. While skills can be acquired and competencies developed, strengths are deeply ingrained, reflecting one's natural talents and proclivities.

Differentiate between strengths, skills, and competencies: Distinguishing between strengths, skills, and competencies is crucial for a comprehensive understanding. Skills are learned behaviors or actions, often task-specific and trainable. Competencies, on the other hand, encompass a combination of skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for effective performance in a specific job. Strengths, however, represent the inherent capacities and inclinations that drive exceptional performance.

Emphasize the importance of identifying and developing strengths: Recognizing and cultivating strengths is paramount for professional success. Leveraging strengths allows individuals to not only excel in their roles but also derive a sense of fulfillment from their work. It aligns personal passion with professional pursuits, enhancing motivation and job satisfaction. Companies, too, benefit by harnessing the unique strengths of their employees, creating a dynamic and high-performing workplace culture.

How to Identify Your Strengths?

Engage in self-reflection and introspection: Self-reflection and introspection form the foundation for identifying strengths. This involves a deep dive into personal experiences, achievements, and moments of flow, where tasks feel effortless and enjoyable. Analyzing these instances provides valuable insights into innate strengths.

Seek feedback from peers, mentors, and supervisors: Feedback from peers, mentors, and supervisors serves as an external perspective, offering observations and insights that may not be apparent to an individual. Constructive feedback helps refine self-awareness, contributing to a more accurate understanding of one's strengths.

Utilize online assessments and tools: Online assessments and tools can provide structured frameworks for identifying strengths. These tools often utilize psychological principles and well-researched methodologies to assess personality traits, preferences, and strengths. Examples include the Gallup StrengthsFinder, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), or the VIA Survey of Character Strengths.

Tailoring Your Strengths to the Job Position

Focus on technical skills for technical roles: In crafting effective job applications, tailoring responses to specific job types is paramount. For technical roles, emphasis should be placed on showcasing one's proficiency in relevant technical skills. A meticulous breakdown of programming languages, software proficiency, and hands-on experience with specific tools will resonate with employers seeking specialized expertise.

Highlight interpersonal skills for customer-facing positions: Customer-facing positions demand a distinct approach, where interpersonal skills take center stage. Applicants should spotlight their ability to communicate effectively, empathize with clients, and resolve issues promptly. Providing examples of successful customer interactions can illustrate one's capacity to build positive relationships and contribute to customer satisfaction.

Showcase leadership qualities for managerial roles: For managerial roles, the focus shifts towards highlighting leadership qualities. Applicants should expound on their experience in guiding teams, making strategic decisions, and fostering a positive work environment. Concrete examples of successful project management and team collaboration underscore a candidate's capacity to lead and inspire others toward common goals.

In essence, a tailored application demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the specific demands of the role, aligning the applicant's skills and experiences with the key attributes sought by the employer.

Read here: How To Navigate Multiple Interviews Prior To Winning That Job  

Examples of Greatest Strengths

Communication skills : Effective communication is essential for any job, so if you have strong communication skills, be sure to mention them in your interview answer. You can highlight your ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. You can also discuss your experience working with different types of people, and your ability to build relationships and rapport.

Problem-solving skills: The ability to solve problems is another valuable skill for any job. In your interview answer, you can highlight your ability to identify and analyze problems, and to develop and implement effective solutions. You can also discuss your experience working under pressure and meeting deadlines.

Teamwork skills: The ability to work effectively as part of a team is essential for many jobs. In your interview answer, you can highlight your ability to collaborate with others, share ideas, and work towards a common goal. You can also discuss your experience leading and motivating teams.

Work ethic: A strong work ethic is essential for any job. In your interview answer, you can highlight your dedication to your work, your willingness to go the extra mile, and your ability to meet deadlines. You can also discuss your experience working independently and as part of a team.

Adaptability: The ability to adapt to change is essential for success in today's workplace. In your interview answer, you can highlight your ability to learn new things quickly, and your willingness to take on new challenges. You can also discuss your experience working in different types of environments and with different types of people.

Tips for Answering the Question

Here are some tips for answering the interview question "What are your greatest strengths?":

Be specific. Don't just say that you're a "hard worker" or a "good communicator." Provide specific examples of your skills and experience. For instance, you could say, "My proficiency in communication is demonstrated through my capability to deliver clear and concise presentations to sizable audiences."

Be relevant. Choose strengths that are relevant to the job you are interviewing for. For example, if you are interviewing for a job in sales, you could mention your strong communication and persuasion skills.

Be honest. Don't overstate your strengths or make up examples. The interviewer can understand whether you are sincere or not.

Be positive . Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses. This is a chance to sell yourself to the interviewer and show them why you are the best candidate for the job.

Sample Interview Answers

Here are some sample interview answers for the question "What are your greatest strengths?":

• "My major strength is my ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and compact manner. I have experience giving presentations to large groups of people, and I'm also a skilled writer. I'm confident that I can use my communication skills to be successful in this role."
• "My greatest strength is my aptitude for problem-solving. I have a proven track record of identifying and analyzing problems, and developing and implementing effective solutions. I'm also able to think critically and creatively, which helps me to come up with innovative solutions. I'm confident that I can use my problem-solving skills to be successful in this role."
• "I excel in team collaboration, showcasing a strong ability to work harmoniously with others. I have experience working on a variety of teams, and I'm always willing to share ideas with others. I'm also a good listener, and I'm always willing to help out my teammates. I'm confident that I can use my teamwork skills to be successful in this role."
• "My greatest strength is my work ethic. I'm dedicated to my work, and I'm always willing to go the extra mile. I'm also able to meet deadlines and work under pressure. I'm confident that I can use my work ethic to be successful in this role."

Bottom Line

As you embark on the journey of tackling interview questions and articulating your greatest strengths, remember that this process is not just about impressing interviewers, it's about understanding yourself on a deeper level and aligning your innate abilities with your professional pursuits. In a world that values authenticity and uniqueness, unveiling your strengths is a powerful act of self-discovery and self-empowerment.

Also read: How To Answer The Interview Question Why Are You Looking For A New Job  

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Essay on My Strength In Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Strength In Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Strength In Life

My positive attitude.

My greatest strength is my positive attitude. No matter what happens, I try to stay cheerful and see the good side of things. This helps me to face challenges without fear and keep going even when things get tough.

Hard Work and Determination

I am also a hard worker. I give my all to every task and never give up. This determination means that I keep trying until I succeed, which is important for achieving my goals.

Supportive Family and Friends

Lastly, my family and friends are my rock. They encourage me, give me advice, and cheer me on. Their support gives me the strength to believe in myself and reach for my dreams.

250 Words Essay on My Strength In Life

My source of strength.

Everyone has something that gives them power to face daily challenges. For me, my strength in life comes from my family. They are like a solid rock that supports me. When I am sad or dealing with a tough time, they cheer me up and remind me that I am not alone. Their love and belief in me make me feel strong.

Belief in Myself

Learning from mistakes.

I also find strength in the mistakes I make. Yes, you read that right! When I do something wrong, I try to learn from it. This helps me to do better next time. It’s like each mistake is a teacher, showing me a better way to do things.

Kindness and Friendship

Lastly, being kind and having good friends are strong points in my life. When I am kind to others, I feel good inside. And having friends means I have people to share fun times with and to help me when I need it. Their friendship is like a warm blanket on a cold day.

In conclusion, my family, self-belief, learning from errors, and the power of kindness and friendship are my strengths in life. They are the tools I use to face any problem and to keep moving forward.

500 Words Essay on My Strength In Life

Introduction to my strength.

Everyone has something that gives them power and courage to face challenges in life. My strength is my ability to stay hopeful no matter what happens. This essay talks about the different parts of my strength in life.

Being Hopeful

Hope is like a light in my heart that never goes out. It helps me to keep going, even when things are tough. When I have a hard time in school or when I am sad, I remember that tomorrow can be better. This belief is a big part of my strength. It’s like having a best friend inside me who says, “You can do it!”

Hard Work Pays Off

I believe that if I work hard, I can reach my goals. When I have a lot of homework or a big project, I take one step at a time. I don’t rush. I give my best effort, and slowly, I see progress. This teaches me that hard work really does lead to success.

Family and Friends

My family and friends are a huge strength for me. They love me, help me, and cheer me on. When I am with them, I feel like I can do anything. They are my team, and knowing they are there for me makes me strong.

Staying Curious

I love to learn new things. Being curious about the world keeps my mind active and excited. When I learn, I feel like I am getting stronger because knowledge is power. It’s like adding more tools to my toolbox that I can use in life.

Conclusion: My Strength Is Unique

In conclusion, my strength in life comes from being hopeful, learning from mistakes, working hard, having support from loved ones, being kind, and staying curious. These parts of my strength are like pieces of a puzzle that fit together to make me who I am. They give me the power to face life with a smile and a brave heart. Remember, everyone’s strength is different, and that’s what makes each of us special.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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What is Your Greatest Strength – How to Answer + 9 Samples

For as long as you’ll be out there, looking for a job, one thing is certain:

You’ll be taking interviews.

A lot of them.

You will also be asked this same question on each and every one of them:

“What is your greatest strength?”

Your answer has to be short but not rushed; concise but not unclear; it has to show your skills but without bragging.

You might be thinking: “How the hell do I come up with an answer like that??“

We got your back!

We’ve created a guideline that will help you structure an amazing answer.

You’ll be looking forward to being asked about your greatest strength from now on!

Here’s what our guide consists of:

• 5 Key Tips to Answer “What is Your Greatest Strength”. How to understand the question, pick your strength, and tell an impressive story.
• 9 Sample Answers. Each for a different seniority level, professional background, and job field.
• 30+ Greatest Strength Examples to pick from in case you’re running low on creativity.

Without further ado, let’s get to it!

How to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength”

Tip 1: understand the question.

The key to giving a great answer to anything is first understanding the question well.

What does the other person want to know?

In this case, what does the interviewer want to hear?

Here’s the thing:

Interviewers already know what they are looking for in an applicant. They’re using this question as a way to see if you check the boxes for those qualities.

Meaning, you should look for answers that are relevant to the job position and/or company you are applying for.

Mentioning “great writer” as your biggest strength when applying for a data analyst position will not do you any good.

Good analytical skills, however, are the essence of the job.

Tip 2: Pick the Right Strength

Need a starting point to pick a strength?

Analyze the job posting!

In most cases, the job description itself will specify what qualities the company is looking for in an applicant.

It usually looks something like this:

“We are looking for an organized and ambitious candidate to join our diverse and energetic team. If you are recently graduated and love researching and finding creative solutions to problems, this might be the job for you!”

The answer to what they are looking for is right there!

If you were to apply for this position, a great answer to “what is your greatest strength?” would be: being a good problem-solver or being detail-oriented.

You’ll notice that most of the wanted qualities in this example are soft skills (personal attributes, like communication skills) instead of hard skills (teachable abilities, like C++).

That’s because recently, employers are valuing soft skills more and more (especially interpersonal and people-oriented skills).

When the interviewer asks about your greatest strength, it would be better to answer with a soft skill .

Most of your hard skills can be found on your resume anyway.

This is your opportunity to tell the interviewer about any valuable quality that they won’t be able to read about on your resume – that’s usually soft skills.]

Can’t come up with the proper skill? We’ve compiled a list of 30+ greatest strength examples for you below. Just keep on reading!

Tip 3: Stick to One Strength

Sometimes, your interviewer/s might ask about your top strength s , so it’s good to have a few options prepared.

However, don’t get carried away and overdo it.

Reciting a list of qualities will only make it seem like you’re saying whatever comes to mind, hoping one of them might stick and impress the interviewer.

It will do the opposite.

[ Example of what NOT to do:

“I have excellent leadership skills. That means I’m a great organizer, communicator, supervisor, and problem solver. I’m very patient and understanding too. Always worked well in teams.”]

Tip 4: Tell a Solid Story

After you’ve decided what you think is your best strength, it’s time to work on a story to support it.

The ideal story will show how you’ve used this skill successfully or how this came to be your strength in the first place.

This will reassure the interviewer that you really own this quality and you’re not just rambling.

Speaking of rambling: that’s something you should avoid at ALL COST.

Try to keep your story concise and skip unnecessary information .

The more into details you go, the more you risk losing the interest of the interviewer/s or end up sounding self-centered.

And don’t oversell yourself or be arrogant under ANY circumstances.

However, this doesn’t mean you should downplay your abilities, like:

“Eh, I guess I am an OK team player. You know who’s awesome, though? My previous manager. That sale I made? All thanks to him. Come to think of it, it was more of a team effort, really.”

Sounds a bit too fake, right? It seems like the candidate is dodging the question.

Here’s the lesson:

Don’t overdo it on either humbleness or confidence.

You want to go for a happy balance.

If it sounds a little confusing, take a look at the samples below and think about which of these two people you would be more willing to hire.

“I’m really good at managing crises. My first job was as an assistant at a wedding planning company. That required a lot of thinking on my feet and dealing with last-minute problems like delayed orders, demanding mothers-in-law, missing items, or wrong arrangements. After just 3 months, my manager gave me a raise and a promotion. She said I was the first to achieve this in such a short time.”

versus…

“I’m a great crisis manager. I was so good at this at my previous job. It was a wedding planning company. My manager there just loved me. I saved a loooot of weddings, just by solving the problems that we encountered and being so quick on my feet. This one time, we had two weddings going on at the same time. They were on opposite sides of the city, like a good 20min drive without traffic. And the weather was exceptionally bad that day, so you can imagine the traffic! So, it was one hour before the weddings and the flowers still weren’t there. I called the flower company but nobody was answering so I called …. *interviewer falls asleep*”

And the winner…

What’s the point, you already guess it’s #1.

Without getting into details, it demonstrates the applicant’s strength and shows how it was key in their success at work and how their supervisor appreciated and valued it as well. The candidate doesn’t downplay his/her achievements and neither oversells him/herself.

Straight to the point.

It kills all three birds with one stone.

Tip 5: Be Honest

If you don’t have any previous work experiences that showcase your strengths, don’t be intimidated.

There’s no need to come up with a superhero story that isn’t true.

Your strength and story can come from anywhere.

It could be something you have developed during school, a part-time job, or even within your family.

An honest and realistic answer is appreciated by most recruiters.

For example:

“One of my biggest qualities is being a good mediator. Growing up as the oldest of three siblings meant I was always acting as the judge between them. It made me develop a good sense of fairness and ability to negotiate. That is what made me decide to get into law school in the first place and I like to think it served as practice for me to excel in all of my classes. I would love to have the opportunity to put the same amount of effort into your law firm as well.”

9 “What Is Your Greatest Strength” Answer Samples

Now that you’ve gone over the theory, it’s time to put that knowledge into action.

To make your life easier, we created some answer samples for different seniority levels and some key industries:

• Entry-Level, Student, or Recent Graduate Answer Sample
• Mid-Level Professional Answer Sample
• Senior Professional Answer Sample
• University Admission Answer Sample
• Service Industry Answer Sample
• Creative Industry Answer Sample
• Business Industry Answer Sample
• Financial Sector Answer Sample

Entry-Level, Student, or Recent Graduate Answer Sample:

“I’m great at multitasking. During my studies at University X I was involved in a lot of activities. I was an active member of 3 clubs, participated in Model UN, and worked as a Student Assistant, all while studying for my double degree. I remember one time during my Junior year, a lot of events were on the same week as my final exams. I managed to help organize one talent show and one TedX event, and I even got a 3.7 GPA at the end of the semester. I like being busy and active, and I always put a lot of effort and passion into everything I’m involved with.”

Mid-Level Professional Answer Sample:

“I’m a very skilled public speaker. As head of the marketing team at company X, it was my duty to pitch our campaign ideas to the board. Our company went through a merger a few months ago and both our and their marketing team would be competing for the winning campaign to represent the brand. My team worked very hard and I was honored to present our idea. It was in front of both boards and with a lot of on-the-spot questioning, but in the end, our team’s project was chosen as the winner. The CEO said it was as much due to the convincing presentation as it was due to the great idea.”

Senior Professional Answer Sample:

“I’m a very flexible person. Throughout my years in the engineering field, I’ve worked as a team leader and supervisor in construction for 7 years and as a consultant in an architectural firm for 5 years. I also taught structural engineering to third-year students at X University. I can easily adapt to new working environments and teams and put my skills and knowledge to different uses.”

University Admission Answer Sample:

“Up to this point, I think I have shown strong leadership skills. Throughout high school, I was very interested in participating in discussions regarding students’ problems. I was elected three times as a student senator and was very devoted to my duties. Every concern my peers presented to me, I made sure to proudly represent and bring to the board for discussion. One of the wins I am most proud of was the year we created an official girls’ volleyball team for our school.”

Service Industry Answer Sample:

“I have very good communication skills. In all the years working as a sales assistant, I have always exceeded my sales goals by at least 10% and gotten end-of-the-year bonuses. I’m very quick in building connections with customers, understanding their issues, and effectively helping them. When I started working at store X I was told about a very difficult customer they had. She always complained about something, so all employees were hesitant in helping her. The next time she came to the store, I offered to help. It took me just a few minutes to figure out her type of character. She wasn’t very talkative, but she wanted the person helping her to be. So that’s what I did. I talked in detail about each item she was interested in – the material, the brand, how to best style it -, I gave my thoughts on everything she tried on and was 100% focused on her. She asked to always be assisted by me after that day. A lot of other customers prefer to be left alone while shopping, so I always try to figure out their type and find the right way to communicate with them.”

Creative Industry Answer Sample:

“I can work extremely well under pressure. In the design business, it’s normal for your first draft of work to get turned back. Clients are very hard to please, but I’m quick with turning the situation around and getting them the final desired product. A lot of times, I’ve found myself having to deliver a project in a very short time. A client once demanded a custom-made pitch deck for a new product release to be ready in 48h. Not even the first draft, the final one! It was ready for him in 24h.”

Business Industry Answer Sample:

“I’m a very skilled organizer. I like to structure tasks and time so work is more efficient. When I was at Company X, I was leading the real estate team responsible for the Y region. When I was first introduced to them, I could tell that there was more to be done. I spent time with all members and identified their strengths in order to give them the right tasks. For example, I found out one of our secretaries had great writing skills, so I put her in charge of writing for our website – mainly describing the houses we were listing. The person who was previously doing this was a great communicator so I let him assist our agents with talking to clients. I did some restructuring around the team and it proved to be so efficient and helpful. The work dynamic completely changed for the better. We were rewarded by the company as the team with the most sales, three years in a row. ”

Financial Sector Answer Sample:

“I possess great interpersonal skills. As an accountant, apart from being good with numbers, I’ve noticed that communication and empathy have been very helpful to me. I once had a client, one of my first clients actually, whose business wasn’t going that well, so he was ready to sell it. However, I always try to get to know my clients and their companies better. I knew how many years my client had put into building this company, what they stood for, and how hard it would be to find a buyer that would keep the same values. So I did a lot of research and found another company with which my client could merge. He went for this option, even though he had never thought of it before. He made me an amazing recommendation and brought me a lot of other clients. What they all valued was the fact that I was as much their advisor as I was their accountant. Sometimes clients want more than just profitable options.”

Technology Sector Answer Sample

“My greatest strength is my motivation to learn. I’m constantly picking up new trends in the industry and incorporating them into my work. There are so many new languages, frameworks, and methodologies going out so quickly. I try to be on top of everything that is helpful to my career. When I applied for the position at the company I was previously working at, I didn’t fulfill their minimum years of experience, so I knew there was a chance I might get rejected. At the interview, however, they told me that they would be introducing a new information system at their company and asked me if I would be willing to learn that. That was a program that I already knew a lot about. I’d already started learning about it myself. They not only hired me but also put me in charge of teaching and assisting the other employees.”

30+ Greatest Strength Examples

While prepping for answering our at-this-point-very-familiar question, the worst-case scenario might be not being able to come up with a strength at all.

Don’t let that stress you!

All it takes is a little inspiration.

Here’s a list of 30+ greatest strength examples most commonly used, sorted by job field.

You’ll notice that most of these skills aren’t very specific or personalized. No doubt, there’s going to be other applicants also claiming them.

What will make you stand out is your story.

So, whatever you pick, make sure you’ll be able to demonstrate and personalize with your story.]

Management Job Strengths

(For positions like: manager, supervisor, etc.)

Organization

Responsibility

Coordination

Crisis management

Communication

Constructive criticism

Employee motivation

Analytical Job Strengths

(For positions like: analyst, accountant, economist, developer, etc.)

Problem-analysis

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Effective research

Communication Job Strengths

(For positions like: human resources, public relations, marketing, sales, etc.)

Collaboration

Persistence

Detail-orientation

Active listening

Effective communication

Multitasking

Negotiation

Creative Job Strengths

(For positions in: advertising, designing, art, publishing, etc.)

Imagination

Out-of-the-box thinking

Visualization (visual art)

Detail-oriented

Personality traits

(Appreciated and useful in any position)

Trustworthy

Handles pressure

Understanding/Empathetic

[ If you still find yourself uncertain about your strengths, you can always take the Gallup StrengthsFinder Test . It’s a behavioral assessment test that will help identify your top 5 unique strengths. However, it’s not a free test as it was made for employers to assess their prospective employees or better distribute their current ones. Here’s a free alternative you can try! ]

Key Takeaways

Now that you know all there is to know about the “What’s your greatest strength?” question, you’re one step closer to nailing the interview.

Before you go, though, let’s run over everything one last time:

• Make sure your strength is relevant to the position/company you’re applying for. You can scan the job posting and find what the hiring manager is looking for.
• Tell a story that will complement your strength. Make sure to mention a specific accomplishment to back it up and avoid rambling.
• Find a balance between modesty and confidence. Avoid getting overly arrogant or not owning up to your achievements.
• Be professional and be truthful.

You got this!

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Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

March 11, 2024

Four Ways to Highlight Your Strengths in Your Application Essays

One of the most important pieces of advice you will ever learn regarding your personal statements and application essays is this: Show, don’t tell . 

It’s a classic writing lesson, and you’ve probably heard it before, perhaps many times. But how do you actually “show, not tell,” in your essays? 

Simply “telling” is ineffective, because it usually involves boastful claims such as “I am a wonderful team leader” or “I have excellent communication skills.” These are not convincing if they’re not backed up with evidence. Empty claims are perilously bland and unpersuasive. 

Instead, show your strengths through vibrant, compelling details. Here are four tips to help you do just that:

1. Lay out the steps you’ve taken.

If you are writing about a goal you achieved or a project you completed, spell out the process you followed. This will add depth and validity to your claims. The statement “Within six months, I was promoted to Junior Account Manager” is generic and “blah.” Consider this rewrite: “After completing my training in record time and then doubling sales in my territory, I was promoted to Junior Account Manager after only six months on the job.” There, isn’t that better? Explaining the specific measures you took to obtain that promotion shows how you did it. Similarly, if you are asked to discuss a weakness, don’t just tell the adcom what your weakness is and state that you have overcome it. Instead, show concrete examples of specific steps you’ve taken to improve. For example, let’s say the weakness you are highlighting is a tendency to procrastinate, and you have worked hard to become more efficient. Do you now plan your projects when you get them and stick to the schedule you set for yourself? Do you check your calendar at least twice daily to ensure that you don’t miss a task, call, or appointment? Show both your system for success and the results you’ve achieved, such as the fact that you haven’t pulled an all-nighter since you implemented these changes.

2. Provide examples of strengths and skills.

You say that you are creative, mature, and an excellent leader . But what have you done specifically that proves it? What impact have you made on your teammates, coworkers, company, or community? Remember, simply claiming that you’re creative isn’t convincing. Sharing a story or painting a picture (with words) that truly depicts the creative workings of your mind is. Leadership is a quality that is highly valued by most graduate schools, so make sure to provide an example of your leadership and impact for these programs.

3. Offer relevant, compelling details.

Supporting details make your success story more believable and memorable. These supporting details show your achievements at a much higher level than just telling about them would, and they help fill out the picture of who you are and what you’ve done. Details can include the number of people on your team, the amount of money you raised, the butterflies you felt in your stomach when launching your new product, the fear you experienced when you botched a project, followed by extreme remorse and then the resolve to do better. These specifics make your story come alive. 

4. Tell a story that reveals your strengths.

Admissions committee readers are just like you and me: they love a good story. And at its core, a good story needs a problem – one with some emotion or tension. It needs a main character who confronts the problem, struggles with it, and finds a resolution. In application essays, you – as the applicant – are the main character coping with a challenge or problem. You reveal your strengths by showing how you figured out a solution – or a path to a solution – to your challenge or problem. In doing so, you might have benefited others and set yourself on a path to further personal and professional growth.  

When you tell a story that spells out your initial challenge or dilemma, includes the steps you took to resolve it, reveals your strengths, and keeps the reader engaged with colorful details, your essay will greatly enhance your admissions chances.

If you’d like additional help showing the adcom what you’re all about, our experienced consultants can show you the way! Discover how to create an application that will get you accepted ! Schedule a free consultation with an Accepted admissions expert. 

By Judy Gruen, former Accepted admissions consultant. Judy holds a master’s in journalism from Northwestern University. She is also the co-author of Accepted’s first full-length book, MBA Admission for Smarties: The No-Nonsense Guide to Acceptance at Top Business Schools . Want an admissions expert help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Five Fatal Flaws to Avoid in Your Grad School Statement of Purpose , a free guide
• Three Must-Have Elements of a Good Statement of Purpose
• Admissions Straight Talk Podcast

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How to Answer “What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?”

• Joel Schwartzberg

Advice and examples to help you craft an authentic answer to this common interview question.

Don’t take common interview questions lightly just because they’re predictable. Underpreparing for them can make the difference between moving ahead and moving on. One question that often comes up: What are your strengths and weaknesses? In this article, the author outlines clear steps for how to describe your strengths and weaknesses along with sample language to use as a guide.

Some questions come up again and again in job interviews . At the top of the list: “ Tell me about yourself ,” “ Why do you want to work here? ” and “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?”

• JS Joel Schwartzberg oversees executive communications for a major national nonprofit, is a professional presentation coach, and is the author of Get to the Point! Sharpen Your Message and Make Your Words Matter and The Language of Leadership: How to Engage and Inspire Your Team . You can find him on LinkedIn and X. TheJoelTruth

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Interview Questions

Comprehensive Interview Guide: 60+ Professions Explored in Detail

What is Your Greatest Strength? Answer Samples

By Biron Clark

Published: November 19, 2023

When interviewers ask “what is your greatest strength?” there are a couple of key elements they’re looking to hear. There are also a few things they really do NOT want to hear. So in this article, we’re going to look at some sample answers to “what is your greatest strength?” and tips for creating your own answer that will impress the interviewer.

Let’s get started…

How to Answer “What is Your Greatest Strength?”

Being put on the spot and asked to brag about yourself in the interview is never easy. However, there are a few steps you can follow to make sure you give a solid answer that interviewers will like.  Here are some key rules to remember when answering, “What is your greatest strength?” in an interview.

1. Choose One Strength

It’s going to be a lot easier to give a clear, concise interview answer (which is always a good thing!) if you just pick one strength.   So choose one thing, keep your answer brief, and focus on making that one point and describing that one key strength of yours. If you aren’t sure what strength to choose, keep reading. We’ll cover that in the next step…

2. Know What You’re Going to Say Ahead of Time

Do NOT just go in and “wing it.” Even preparing a half-decent answer will be better than making it up on the spot. You’re going to gain a big advantage by doing this right now. So make sure you know what strength you’ll talk about ahead of time.

3. Choose a Strength that Relates to Their Job

When answering, “What is your greatest strength?” it’s best to pick something that will help you succeed in their job. This makes it more likely the interviewer will offer you the position. So think about what strengths of yours will help you most in this job you’ve applied for. Look at the job description, figure out what the job requires or what’s most important to the company. Think about whether the job is highly technical or not. Is leadership involved or will you be working as an individual? Will you be interacting with customers or not? Does the job use creativity or logic more? You need to be looking at the job description and asking yourself those questions BEFORE choosing which strengths you want to share. Because the whole idea is to share a strength that will make the company think you’re a valuable candidate and someone they should hire for their job.

4. Explain Why This Strength Will Help You Succeed in Their Job

After sharing your strength, point out exactly how this will help you succeed in their job. For example, you could say:

“My greatest strength is attention to detail. I’ve always been detail-oriented in my work, and it’s something I enjoy. I saw on your job description that this role involves a lot of detail-oriented work, which is one reason I applied.”

We’ll cover many more answer samples in the next section of this article.

5. Give Specific PROOF

After you tell them what your greatest strength is and why it will help you in their job, try to back it up with some proof. How? By telling a story or giving an example of how you’ve used this strength in the past – to help a previous employer.  Giving a detailed example is 10-20x more powerful than just saying you’re good at something. So talk about how you used this strength to achieve a specific result.

Using the example answer we just looked at above, you might continue and say:

“In my last job, I was frequently required to manage 8-10 client projects at a time, and often had 75 different tasks going on in those different projects. Being detail-oriented allowed me to deliver 100% of my projects on-time to our clients. In fact, I finished 45% of my assigned projects ahead of schedule.”

The key piece to remember here is: It’s always good to be detail-oriented and specific when answering questions about your strengths. Your answer (and past work) will seem much more impressive to the interviewer when you get specific and name real results and numbers like the example answer above.

“What is Your Greatest Strength?” Answer Samples

Now you know the steps to follow to give a great answer when the interviewer asks for your biggest strength. Now let’s look at some example answers to help you create your own answer.

First, here’s the answer you’d get if you combine the pieces we looked at in the steps above…

Sample Answer 1:

“My greatest strength is attention to detail. I’ve always been detail-oriented in my work, and it’s something I enjoy. I saw on your job description that this role involves a lot of detail-oriented work, which is one reason I applied. In my last job, I was frequently required to manage 8-10 client projects at a time, and often had 75 different tasks going on in those different projects. Being detail-oriented allowed me to deliver 100% of my projects on-time to our clients. In fact, I finished 45% of my assigned projects ahead of schedule.”

Now let’s look at some other good answer samples for your greatest strength.

Sample Answer 2:

“My greatest professional strength is the ability to handle pressure and work under a tight deadline. I think that would help me succeed in this position because of the large number of clients and deadlines I’d be working with here. In my last position, I handled difficult projects on short notice for a number of our top clients like Coca Cola and Microsoft. I completed 100% of the projects I was assigned and this resulted in us winning $2 million in additional business from these clients.”

Always remember, the number one thing a hiring manager wants to know is how you’ll help the company make money or be more successful. 

What can you do for THEM? So that’s what we’re doing in the sample answers above. You’re not just sharing your greatest strength, but you’re making it crystal-clear why this strength will help THEM, and you’re proving this by sharing how it has helped your previous employers. That’s the basic strategy for answering, “what is your greatest strength” in any type of interview , whether it’s a first phone interview or a face-to-face interview. So the question of “what are your greatest professional strengths?” isn’t just a chance to brag, it’s a chance to prove you can help the company! And that’s what will get you hired.

Mistakes When Answering, “What Is Your Greatest Strength?”

Now that you know how to answer questions about your greatest strengths and have seen two full answer samples for this question, let’s talk about some mistakes to avoid in your answer!

First, you never want to say, “I’m not sure” or “I don’t know”. Always have one specific answer ready, that’s “tailored” for the company you’re interviewing with. (This should sound familiar if you read the steps near the top of this article). The next mistake to avoid is sounding scattered or naming too many strengths. As mentioned earlier,  it’s best to pick one single strength to talk about. You can stretch this to two strengths if you really want, but don’t name any more. The third and final big mistake to avoid is sounding too humble/shy. There’s a time and place to be humble, and a time to be confident and brag a bit about yourself . This is an interview question where you really do need to be comfortable talking highly of your own skills.

So make sure you practice sounding confident when you give your answer.

If you do follow the steps I’ve laid out above, you will have an impressive answer for, “what are your strengths?” or “what is your greatest strength”… so you can get more job offers and avoid feeling anxious when you hear this type of question.

If you want more help preparing, I’d also recommend preparing to answer questions about your greatest weakness .

You can also read a list of the top 20 interview questions and answers HERE .

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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15 most common pharmacist interview questions and answers, 15 most common paralegal interview questions and answers, top 30+ funny interview questions and answers, 60 hardest interview questions and answers, 100+ best ice breaker questions to ask candidates, top 20 situational interview questions (& sample answers), 15 most common physical therapist interview questions and answers, 3 thoughts on “what is your greatest strength answer samples”.

What if I tell them some technical thing as my greatest strength like programming especially JAVA? Will that be considered, as the position I am looking for is highly technical. I want to sound that I have technical knowledge.

That’s a fine answer. I might go into some detail and explain why you feel that’s your strength and how you’ve built up that skill. But it’s a great response.

I think you should mention that at a later question, for now you should just say what your strength and weakness is. This is late though, so I hope you got the job anyways!

Comments are closed.

What Is Your Greatest Strength - Perfect Answers for 2024

You’re in the middle of the job interview, and it’s going great.

The interviewer asks, “What is your greatest strength?” and you’re ready.

You answer, “It’s time management!” and wait for the interviewer to move on to the next question.

But they don’t. They just keep sitting there, as if expecting more from your answer.

You freeze. What did you do wrong? After all, you answered the question, didn’t you?

There’s a lot more to this simple interview question than it seems.

Thankfully, we’re here to help.

In this guide, we’re going to cover:

Why Do Interviewers Ask This Question?

• How to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength?”
• 170 Examples of Strengths for Different Professions

Read on to find out.

Before you can dive into answering this interview question, you need to understand why interviewers ask it in the first place.

“What is your greatest strength?” gives interviewers insight into who you are as a candidate. 

This question lets them:

• Check your self-awareness. Your answers will show the interviewer whether you can identify your own strengths and back them up. Self-awareness is crucial for both personal and professional growth, so employers value it as a quality.
• Assess how prepared you are. How you respond can show whether you took the opportunity seriously and took practicing for the most common interview questions seriously.
• Evaluate if you’re right for the job. Your greatest strength tells them if you fit the requirements of the job and how good of a match you would be for the role.

As you can see, this is one of the most important job interview questions.

But it’s also a question that gives you the opportunity to highlight your skills and personality, so it’s your chance to really ace your job interview.

How to Never Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength?”

There are certain mistakes you should avoid when answering this interview question.

Here’s what you should never do when talking about your greatest strength:

• Say something obvious. Saying things like "I'm a hard worker" or "I'm detail-oriented" comes across as disingenuous and unimaginative. The interviewer is going to expect a better answer than that.
• Be too humble. Don’t downplay your strengths out of modesty. That’s going to make you seem either insecure or ignorant about your own qualities.
• Skip the examples. Simply naming a strength without backing it up with concrete data isn’t a good answer. Be ready to give specific examples or talk about achievements to convince the interviewer you’re being honest.
• Go off-topic. Don't get sidetracked by going into excessive detail. Your answer should be clear, concise, and focused on explaining your greatest strength, not your life story.

Check out what some of the biggest interview mistakes are in our dedicated article.

5 Tips to Answer “What Is Your Greatest Strength?”

Now that we got the “why-s” out of the way, let’s talk about some practical tips you can take advantage of when discussing your strengths:

#1. Stay Relevant

You should mention strengths that are relevant to the job you’re applying to.

Before your interview, research the company . Find out what their values are and think of strengths that reflect them. If the company values independent work, your self-discipline or time management skills could be a great strength.

Be sure to also read the job description so you can tailor your answer to the specific role you’re applying for. Highlight your most relevant strengths to show the interviewer that you’re the right person for the job.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as a server , some of your strengths could be having a good memory so you can memorize orders or being friendly and welcoming to guests.

Don’t bother talking about strengths that aren’t relevant to the job. You want the interviewer to know you’re perfect for the job you applied for, not how cool you are outside of work.

#2. Back-Up Your Claims

If you want to really make an impression during your job interview, back up everything you say with examples.

Don't just say you’re a great problem solver and leave it at that. When it comes to job interviews, the rule of thumb is “show, don’t tell.”

So, instead of saying, “I’m a great leader,” back it up with an impressive achievement . For example, “I’d say my strength is being a team leader. In my previous role, I led a team of five that increased company sales by 20% in seven months.” 

Once you give a real-life example, the interviewer can actually picture you putting that strength into action and how you can do the same at their company.

#3. Show Humility

Talking about your greatest strength is your chance to market yourself during your job interview.

But you don’t want to overdo it. If you’re too confident, it might come across as arrogant and rub interviewers the wrong way.

You want to sell your key strengths but stay grounded and humble at the same time. Don’t make grandiose statements or act like you’re the best candidate they’ll ever have.

Your communication skills can help you here. Try to be objective when talking about your strengths, and stick to the facts without bragging. Acknowledge that while you’re good, you still have room for growth and the willingness to learn more.

Talking about your strengths is close to an elevator pitch . Our article on how to make an impactful elevator pitch can help you perfect your answer.

#4. Be Authentic

When you're on the spot answering "What is your greatest strength?" it can be tempting to exaggerate a bit.

But make no mistake - your answer here should always be perfectly honest.

Don’t exaggerate or embellish your strengths, and, most importantly, do not lie about them.

Embellishing or straight-up lying about your strengths is never a good idea. For one, interviewers can usually tell when a candidate isn’t being honest, and when they catch you in a lie, your whole interview goes down the drain.

More importantly, even if you do get the job by exaggerating, it's going to come back to bite you. Sooner or later, your employer will find out you’re not as good as you made yourself out to be, and that’s not a situation that you want to be in.

#5. Relate It to the Company

When discussing your greatest strength, don't just mention it and move on. Explain how that particular strength can provide value to the employer.

The interviewer doesn't just want to hear how cool you are; they need to know if you have important skills and can contribute to their company’s success.

So, make sure to tie your strengths directly to the company’s goals. For example, if your greatest strength is creativity, you could say something like: “Creativity is one of my biggest strengths, and I think it will help me create more successful and engaging advertising campaigns for your products.”

This way, you can connect the dots for the interviewer, show them that you’ve done your research, and visualize how you'd bring them the results they want.

7 Tips for Identifying Your Greatest Strength

Now that you know the basics about answering this tricky interview question, there’s only one thing left - identifying your strengths before the job interview.

Let’s go through some tips you can use to find them.

#1. Make a List of Your Skills

The first step to identifying your greatest strength is to assess your skills.

Make a list of all the skills and qualities that make you a great candidate for the job. Things like communication, problem-solving , attention to detail, and so on.

Don’t skip anything - write down every skill you can think of, both technical skills for your field and broader soft skills .

But don’t just list the obvious ones either. Think about some of your more nuanced or underrated skills. For example, skills like emotional intelligence , adaptability, or fostering inclusivity might not immediately come to mind, but they’re worth writing down.

Once you have your complete list of skills, you can use it to find the greatest strengths that truly set you apart.

#2. Think About Your Accomplishments

One of the best ways to find your greatest strengths is to reflect on your greatest accomplishments and professional achievements.

What skills and qualities led to those impressive results? What helped you achieve your greatest successes is likely among your greatest strengths.

Make a list of your proudest achievements from previous roles. Things like winning a major new client, implementing a new efficient process, leading a critical project, or solving a complex problem, are all examples of professional achievements.

Then, break down the strengths that were instrumental to reaching those goals. Maybe it was your strategic thinking, your ability to master new hard skills quickly, or your leadership skills .

But don't just consider obvious strengths - look for qualities that helped you go above and beyond.

Once you pick out your greatest achievements, you’ll be able to pinpoint your greatest strengths.

#3. Ask for Outside Perspectives

While self-reflection is important for identifying your strengths, it's also valuable to get an outside opinion.

Ask people who have seen you in action. Coworkers, managers, mentors, or friends can share what they see as your greatest strengths.

A different perspective can give you insights into what you might miss or take for granted about yourself. People who work closely with you are likely to notice strengths that you wouldn’t immediately think of.

For example, your manager might point out your organizational skills , or a teammate could be impressed with your ability to work under pressure.

Just make sure the people you ask know you want genuine feedback, not flattery. Ask them to provide specific examples to explain why they think those are your strengths.

Once you have input from others, you can get a more comprehensive understanding of yourself and what your greatest strengths are. From there, you’re well on your way to conveying them to future employers.

#4. Assess Your Personality

Looking at the results from personality tests or assessments you've taken can help you identify your greatest strengths.

Things like the Myers-Briggs or DiSC personality types are designed to reveal your core personality traits and approaches to different situations. Not to mention that your personality is directly linked to the career path you should put yourself on.

So, look at your personality and see what it says about you. For example, if you’re introverted, you might be better at working independently instead of relying on your teamwork skills .

Once you have your results, we recommend you read into them in detail. Don't just skim the surface-level descriptions.

The more you learn about your personality profile, the easier it’ll be to find your standout strengths and weaknesses that you might need to foster or work on.

#5. Think About What Motivates You

Pay attention to the types of work activities and environments that really energize you. Ask yourself: “What do you naturally gravitate towards?”

Maybe you thrive when you have to analyze data, or you prefer working as part of a close-knit team. Either way, that could give you a hint about where your strengths are.

Think about the last time you were so absorbed in what you were doing at work that you didn’t notice the time fly. That sort of flow state is a clear sign that you have tapped into your core strengths.

Naturally, people love doing things they’re good at. So, once you find what you love doing at work, you’ll be that much closer to finding your greatest strengths.

• “My greatest strength is my passion for continuous learning. For example, whenever new software is released, I am always the first to test and get familiar with it. I enjoy exploring and learning every aspect of the software, as I believe it's essential to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry. I believe this position would provide me with the opportunity to apply my eagerness to learn and use it as an asset to help Company X adapt to new tech.” 

#6. Match Your Strengths to the Job

Once you’ve got your strengths figured out, it’s time to narrow them down.

You don’t want to go to your job interview and talk about strengths that won’t actually help you do that job.

For example, if you’re great at working under pressure, that might be perfect for a busy restaurant, but when you’re applying for a sales position at an art gallery, your stress management isn’t going to be that impressive.

Start by reading the job ad carefully. Find the keywords and requirements for the role, then think about what strengths you have that match them.

For example, if the job involves leading cross-functional project teams, your strengths might be in areas like communication, organization, and conflict resolution .

#7. Find What Makes You Stand Out

When you want to identify your greatest strength, you don't want to go with something obvious that anyone can have.

Think about the specific skills, talents, and qualities that really make you different and set you apart from the crowd.

Maybe you’re fluent in several languages , or you’re great at simplifying complicated information.

You have to find that distinctive blend of strengths that shows who you are and how you work. Look back on your work experience and think about the qualities that set you apart from others you worked with.

For example, maybe you always kept your workspace more organized, or you were always ahead of your deadlines.

Whatever your specific strengths are, be ready to talk about them and the results they’ve helped you achieve throughout your career.

“What Is Your Greatest Strength?” Sample Answers

Looking for more inspiration on how to talk about your strengths? Check out these 6 sample answers for different professions and levels of experience.

#1. High School Student

“I’m very communicative, and I get along well with people.

I’ve developed strong communication skills through school projects and different extracurricular activities. I’m good at building rapport and engaging with others, whether it's classmates or teachers.

I’m also good at performing under pressure. During exam periods, I often have to manage multiple assignments and activities at the same time. It can get pretty hectic, but I enjoy the challenge and always manage to stay on top of things.”

Read a full high school resume example here.

#2. College Applicant

“I would say that it’s my time-management skill by far. 

During my senior year, I managed to maintain a 3.7 GPA while at the same time doing a ton of different extracurricular activities. Specifically, I’ve volunteered, been part of the student council, and am part of the managing team of the business club.

I’m a huge fan of scheduling pretty much everything I do. I need to know what I’m doing, when, and how long it’s going to take me. This way, I’ve never missed a deadline, an assignment, or any other responsibility.

On the other hand, you could also say that that’s my weakness, haha. If the organization or team is unorganized, I’m not going to be too happy working with them.”

Read a full college applicant resume example here.

#3. College Student

“My greatest strength is problem-solving. In college, I’ve tackled a lot of challenges through my courses and projects.

For instance, in my engineering class, I led a team to design a water filtration system. We ran into several technical problems, but by breaking them down and brainstorming solutions together, we finished the project ahead of schedule.

Also, balancing my studies with a part-time job has really improved my time management. I’ve learned how to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines efficiently. I think these problem-solving and organizational skills would be really useful in this role.”

Read a full college freshman resume example here.

#4. Recent Graduate

“I work pretty well under pressure. When I was studying at University X, I had several situations where I had to come up with a solution to some problem or another within a very limited time frame.

During a class on Databases, we had to come up with a relational database for a fake business. Our team leader turned out to be extremely unorganized - he organized a single meeting, gave us some vague tasks, and we never heard from him again. 

I already had some experience working with databases, so I did my part in advance and started waiting for the rest of the team. I was in charge of doing the design, and the team was supposed to translate the schema into an actual database. 

Around a week before the deadline, I saw that no one was doing anything, so I organized a sync meeting. 

It turned out the rest of the team didn’t do anything, and the team lead was out of town. So, I had to take charge of the team and make sure we had the project ready by the deadline. I personally helped each of my teammates do their part and also organized two more sync meetings to make sure we did everything right.

Eventually, we ended up submitting the project on time and getting an A.”

Read a full recent graduate resume example here.

#5. Mid-Level Professional

“One of my greatest strengths is probably my attention to detail. Even small mistakes can lead to big problems down the line when you work in construction, so I take everything seriously.

For example, on a recent project, we were building a residential complex. I noticed that the measurements on the blueprints didn't align correctly with the foundation layout. If we had continued, it would have caused significant structural issues before the project was even finished. I brought this up with the project manager, and we double-checked everything. It turned out that there were several other small errors that needed to be fixed.

Thankfully, we caught the mistakes early, so we avoided expensive reworking and kept the project on schedule.”

Read a full construction project manager resume example here.

#6. Experienced Professional

“I’m a very good writer.

My last two jobs were 99% copywriting. So far, I’ve done pretty much everything writing-related: email marketing, website copy, blog posts, and I’ve even ghost-written an e-book for a client.

I’ve also guest-posted on several popular blogs, such as Blog X and Blog Y.”

Read a full writer resume here.

170 Examples of Strengths for Every Field

Looking for examples of strengths you can mention during your job interview? We’ve got you covered.

Check out these great strengths for every field out there:

#1. Retail and Sales

• Customer Service Skills
• Communication
• Adaptability
• Product Knowledge
• Attention to Detail
• Problem-Solving
• Sales Skills
• Time Management
• Relationship Building

Read a full sales associate resume example here.

#2. Customer Service

• Positive Attitude
• Active Listening
• Persuasiveness
• Stress Management

Read a full customer service resume example here.

#3. Hospitality

• Flexibility
• Multitasking
• Cultural Awareness

Read a full receptionist resume example here.

#4. Food and Beverage

• Hygiene and Safety Awareness
• Physical Stamina

Read a full waiter resume example here.

#5. Marketing and Advertising

• Analytical Skills
• Strategic Thinking
• Digital Literacy

Read a full digital marketing resume here.

#6. Administrative and HR

• Organizational Skills
• Technological Proficiency
• Interpersonal Skills

Read a full administrative assistant resume example here.

#7. Business

• Financial Acumen
• Negotiation Skills
• Decision-Making

Read a full business analyst resume example here.

#8. Finance

• Mathematics
• Ethical Judgment
• Risk Management

Read a full accountant resume example here.

#9. IT and Software Development

• Critical Thinking
• Analytical Thinking
• Technical Proficiency

Read a full software engineer resume example here.

#10. Nursing and Healthcare

Read a full nurse resume example here.

#11. Art and Design

• Originality
• Open-mindedness
• Versatility
• Color Theory
• Project Management
• Conceptual Thinking

Read a full graphic designer resume example here.

#12. Writing and Editing

• Research Skills

Read a full editor resume example here.

#13. Journalism

• Objectivity
• Persistence

#14. Education

Read a full teacher resume example here.

#15. Science

Read a full research assistant resume example here.

#16. Social Work

• Conflict Resolution
• Advocacy Skills
• Listening Skills

Read a full social worker resume example here.

#17. Management

• Organization
• Communication skills
• Detail-oriented
• Responsible
• Strategic Planning

Read a full project manager resume example here.

To recap, here are the list of strengths based on the type of job you’re applying for:

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

Before we say “bye!” let’s quickly go through everything we’ve learned in this article:

• Talking about your strengths is your opportunity to sell yourself to the interviewer, so make sure you prepare in advance.
• Identify your greatest strengths before your interview. For each position you’re applying for, think of your top two to three strengths that are going to help you excel.
• When answering, mention what your top strengths are, provide examples of how you’ve used them in the past, and describe the results you’ve gotten.
• Be super specific with your answers. Don’t just say you’re good at something - really dive deep and give the interviewer a comprehensive answer.

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Strengths and Weaknesses in Writing

By Sarah Oakley

Table of Contents

5 writing strengths you need to have, 4 writing weaknesses to overcome, how prowritingaid can help you become a better writer, conclusion on writing strengths and weaknesses.

Even the best writers have strengths and weaknesses in writing. Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses is vital if you want to be a good writer.

If you develop your writing skills, you’ll be able to ensure all your writing is of high quality. This applies to creative writing, academic writing, and business writing. 

In this article, we’ll explore five strengths you need and four weaknesses to work on. You’ll also learn how ProWritingAid can help you become a better writer.

A writing strength is a characteristic of great writing and it gives your reader the impression you know exactly what you’re doing. You can learn and develop writing skills so you don’t need to worry about being naturally gifted.

You can build your writing strengths before you write so your first draft has solid foundations, or you can gain them over time as you write. Don’t exhaust yourself trying to make the first draft perfect; it’ll need editing later on.

We’ve picked five strengths we think are the most important when writing any document. These skills are imperative for those who want a writing career.

Strength 1: A Rich Vocabulary

One of the best things you can do as a writer is to develop the number of words you know. Therefore, you’ll have a diverse word choice to pick from when you’re writing.

You can achieve this strength through reading. Read everything you can get your hands on. It’s not enough to read within your chosen genre, business area, or subject area.

By learning new things and opening your mind to other writing categories, you’ll develop a vivid imagination, and you’ll have an excellent vocabulary to work with.

Learning new words and concepts can also help you reduce writer’s block, which is a bonus strength that will help you achieve your goal of finishing writing projects more often.

It’s said that only 3% of novel writers actually finish writing their novel. Arming yourself with a rich vocabulary will help you become one of those 3%.

If you don’t have time for reading as widely, or you’re not sure you’ll be able to remember so many words, some writing apps have built-in thesaurus features you can use. 

Strength 2: Use of Literary Devices

There are many literary devices writers can use to keep their readers engaged. You might be familiar with a few of them, but if you develop your knowledge of all of them, you’ll create variety in your writing by having more to choose from.

We can’t go over every single literary device you could use in this article. However, we have picked three important ones you can use to strengthen your writing straight away.

Foreshadowing is the technique of revealing details and clues for your reader to give them an idea of what is coming. You can use this in fiction writing to create suspense, excitement, or apprehension. In business and academic writing, you can mention something briefly that you will go into detail about later.

Metaphors and similes are ways to describe things as though they are something else or compared to something else. They are great devices to use in poetry and fiction writing. You can engage your reader with metaphors and similes by making their mind work harder to imagine the things you’re describing.

The opposite of using metaphors to describe something figuratively is using concrete imagery in your descriptions. This is where the “show, don’t tell” rule comes into play. You need to show your readers what you’re writing about through sensory details.

Strength 3: Varying Sentence Lengths

Sentence lengths are important as they help the flow of your writing and contribute to its pacing. Long sentences take longer to read but can include a lot of information. Shorter sentences can have more impact.

If you want to give the reader a sense of urgency in the pacing of your writing, use shorter, snappier sentences. They can be as short as one word. 

Be careful when writing short sentences for pacing. You don’t want to write an entire scene in short sentences because your reader might rush through without picking up any details.

Longer sentences can comprise several clauses and even feature additional information in brackets or between em dashes. They take a while to read, so do your reader a favor and remember to add punctuation for pauses. 

Strength 4: Target Reader Awareness

When you know who you are writing for and what they expect, you can focus on achieving and exceeding those expectations. This works for creative, business, and academic writing. The ability to tailor your content to the intended audience is a mark of a great writer.

If you’re working on a creative writing project, such as a novel, you need to be aware of the basic requirements of a novel and any specific elements of your chosen genre. This could include story length, number of characters, and the amount of exposition.

For business writing, such as sales emails and internal company documents, it’s important to use the correct professional tone and vocabulary for your intended reader. You need to ensure your writing is clear and doesn’t use too much business jargon that could make your reader lose interest.

When writing an academic essay or thesis, your reader is likely to be an examiner or a peer in your academic field, so they should understand the subject you’re writing about. This means you can use more technical language and statistics to back up your points. You’ll also need to use formal language.

Strength 5: A Strong Writing Voice

Your writing voice makes anything you write sound uniquely yours. So it’s important to work on achieving a strong, authoritative voice to make readers pay attention to what you’re writing about.

Developing your writing voice is something that takes time and a lot of practice. Most writers start off by emulating other writers to learn how to write things effectively. Once you know how to write well, you can start developing your own way of doing it.

You should adhere to the objective elements of good writing, such as grammar and spelling, to avoid making mistakes. You might even have to follow style guides for business or academic writing. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t break stylistic or optional writing rules, such as using the Oxford comma, to develop your personal writing style.

When you’re writing with confidence, the reader will hear it. You’ll use phrases and details only experts and enthusiasts would know. Your writing will sound natural, like you’re talking to your reader directly. A strong writing voice is one of the most engaging parts of writing.

Producing great writing is tough, and there are several weaknesses you’ll need to overcome if you want to create amazing pieces of writing. Luckily, most weaknesses only require practice and some studying to resolve them.

I’ve highlighted the four most common weaknesses writers should work on.

Weakness 1: Your Writing Lacks Substance

If you are trying to convince your readers you know what you’re talking about, you need to include details that will give them the right impression.

For a fiction writer, it’s not enough to just add extra details to your descriptions. You need to create unique characters and worlds your reader will want to invest their time in. Even genre fiction readers want to see a new spin on tried and tested plot structures.

You can always improve business and academic writing with some facts and statistics. If you’ve got research findings, add them where appropriate.

In essay writing, don’t use vague statements or general ideas. Your reader will believe your points if you can prove there’s weight to what you’re writing. Make strong points and back them up with evidence. Don’t forget to check your references and citations.

Weakness 2: Poor Grammar, Spelling, and Punctuation

A sure-fire way to lose a reader’s attention is poor grammar, misspelled words, and punctuation that skews the meaning of your sentence. Mistakes make the reader focus on the quality of the writing rather than what you are writing about.

There are many books and online courses available for improving your knowledge of grammar, spelling, and punctuation. If you’re uncertain about a rule, you can simply Google it to find out more. Writing style guides are also great places to find grammar rules.

Alternatively, you can use an editing software to tighten up your writing after you’ve finished your first draft. ProWritingAid is an editing software that includes helpful tips and information about the rules you need to brush up on. You’ll learn by doing if you edit your writing with ProWritingAid.

Never make another grammar mistake

ProWritingAid's AI-powered spelling and grammar checker will help you sound professional every time.

Weakness 3: Disorganized Writing

There are structures and templates for literally any piece of writing these days. So there’s no excuse for writing that meanders from one point to another with no apparent connection between each one. Organized writing is a must for all writers.

Before you write anything, you need to plan what you’re going to write. This plan doesn’t need to be very detailed, but it needs to have a logical flow from one point to the next. 

For academic writers, you’ll need to include transition words to join points and ideas together. Connecting your points with transition words will keep your reader engaged.

Weakness 4: Lack of Focus on Writing Projects

One of the biggest weaknesses writers face is a lack of focus. If you allow distractions to overwhelm you when you’re trying to write, it will affect your writing.

Writers need to create a suitable environment that will encourage creativity. This is different for each person, but most writers agree that a quiet room with a desk and a comfy chair are the minimum requirements.

Another factor to consider is whether you’re getting enough sleep. Tired writers don’t make amazing literature. First drafts might be safe to complete when you’re sleepy, but editing is something you should do when you’re alert and able to check your work for imperfections.

As I mentioned earlier, ProWritingAid is a piece of editing software that will coach you through your strengths and weaknesses as you make edits to your writing. One of the best things about ProWritingAid is that you can use it at any stage of your writing process.

When you use a ProWritingAid integration, you can check for grammatical errors as you type with the Realtime checker. If you hover your cursor over an underlined word or phrase, you’ll see a pop-up that will tell you what improvement needs to be made, and it’ll give you an option to apply a pre-generated improvement.

The Realtime checker gives you suggestions to improve your grammar, spelling, punctuation, readability, and passive voice. If you want to edit your writing further, you can run any of the 20+ reports that will explore specific things, such as your average sentence length and the use of sensory details.

While there are many strengths that great writers possess, the five strengths and four weaknesses we’ve highlighted in this article are some of the most important ones to focus your efforts on to begin with.

Remember, weaknesses will undermine your hard work to become a better writer. You’ll need to make sure you’re not letting yourself down by making the mistakes we’ve mentioned above.

ProWritingAid is here to help you with strengths and weaknesses in writing so you can ensure your own writing is perfect every time. Though it won’t tell you how much sleep to get or how to rearrange your writing environment. That’s all down to you.

If you want to become a skilled writer, give ProWritingAid a try today.

Sarah Oakley

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When You Write

Strengths and Weaknesses in Writing

As a writer, I always strive to be better—and in some categories, the best. I believe that understanding my writing strengths and weaknesses helps me improve my writing skills and become a master of this art.

If one doesn’t understand their strengths and weaknesses in writing, it means they can’t genuinely edit their work and cannot pinpoint areas that need improvement and those that are their strengths.

Constant self-evaluation is the passe-partout of any practice or line of work, but to accurately evaluate yourself you have to know what you’re looking for.

Every writer has strengths and weaknesses. For example, you might have a rich vocabulary—which you efficiently use—or showcase good usage of literary devices. Those two would be called strengths in your writing.

You might also have weaknesses in your writing such as lack of coherence, long-winded sentences, and organization.

Let us delve further into writing strengths and weaknesses and understand how you can use your strengths and overcome your weaknesses!

8 Must-Have Strengths for a Writer

It is also important to know and have some particular strengths as a writer to be more than an ordinary writer.

Here are some of those essential strengths:

Focus is essential in almost everything you do. Without focus, you could have the best skill set and still produce average work dues to errors and complacency.

Every writer wants to stay focused, but it’s not easy. You have to teach yourself to stay focused, whether it involves conditioning your body or tricking your mind.

Do whatever is necessary and within healthy limits. When you start writing and reading routinely, your body and mind start responding to them as the normal order of your day.

Enough sleep and a cup of coffee also help you maintain focus during your writing sessions .

And, get rid of distractions! Put down your phone, turn off your Wi-Fi, and get away from your Tele.

2. A Rich, Diverse Vocabulary

We are not talking about having a rich vocabulary only, but also using the words expeditiously.

This diverse vocabulary should make you write pieces that are not readable and make your readers slave through their reading.

So, you should always make sure that you choose (from this excellent vocabulary and diverse word choice) the right and unique choice of words that would look appealing to your readers.

You have to keep learning new words and the correct usage of those words.

3. A Burning Passion for Reading

I hear a lot of writers—self-published writers to be specific—say that they don’t like reading. For them, writing is a natural talent that doesn’t need to be nourished by reading.

One thing they are oblivious of is that without reading, they can’t understand what they are doing wrong, what they’re doing right, and other things that made other writers successful.

These types of writers put themselves in a “box.”

By reading other people’s works, you get to see writing from different perspectives and you can analyze your writing, a vantage point that helps you perfect your writing skills.

You don’t even have to buy these reading resources because they’re gazillions of blogs, eBooks, novels, and others online.

4. Organized Writing that Follows a Logical Flow

If whatever you’re writing doesn’t flow and therefore isn’t coherent, it is nothing but utter rubbish!

Your writing needs to show a naturally logical progression of thought and must be easy to read for the intended audience. If the progression doesn’t make sense to your reader, then who are you writing for?

Your thoughts should be linked within and between paragraphs. The use of transitional words facilitates this purpose. Words such as “however,” “also,” “yet,” and “although,” among others help you show these transitions.

You should aim at making it easy for your readers to navigate and read through your content.

Organized writing is an essential strength for a writer. The way you present your ideas in sentences and paragraphs impacts the readability and navigability of your content.

Make sure your sentences are short and your paragraphs just meaty enough for the ideas presented in them—and avoid run-on sentences.

Your content needs to have enough signposts and breaks. Be efficient with headings and subheadings, and have so many if the information keeps changing from paragraph to paragraph to make it easy for your readers to find the right information in your content.

5. Creativity

For professional writers, creativity is of the greatest essence. It is even more indispensable for fiction writers.

Our goal as writers is not to bore our readers to death. We always have to think out of the box to craft pieces that will win the hearts of the readers and make them want more of our content.

A good and wonderworking—and sometimes libertine—imagination is necessary to craft unique, stirring pieces.

Sometimes, you have to let your imagination wander off and come back with crazy and wild ideas. If you’re a fiction writer, let your imagination help you create a unique world, with unique characters, using your own nomenclature!

Remember, there’s no single rule on what kind of imagination is bad or good in creative writing.

There are various ways of increasing one’s creativity, but I have discovered that I’m more creative when I take time to appreciate other pieces of art before I start writing. Before I write I listen to some music, read poetry, or just look at a painting.

It’s not for everyone, but it works for me!

Your writing should be as clear as a summer day, as lucid as you can make it.

This element goes hand in hand with the organized writing I discussed in strength number 4, your writing should be clear enough for your readers to grasp and appreciate the ideas in your content quickly.

For blogs, newspaper articles, and magazine pieces, writing chunky paragraphs is—for lack of a word—taboo. You should always be conservative with the size of your paragraph and be straightforward with your explanations.

Just make your writing simple but comprehensible.

7. A Unique Writing Style

One thing all successful writers have in common is a unique style. For example, when you read anything by Dr. Seuss, you understand that his style involved the use of mirthful new words. The best writers write using a distinguished voice or style.

You have to discover your writing style—and for many, it just happens naturally and in some cases, it’s the readers or critics that notice the uniqueness of the writer.

8. Understanding Your Audience

We write because it’s our passion, but if we think about it, that is rarely the sole reason for writing and publishing our work.

We want our audience to love our content or appreciate the message in it. So, it’s all about our interests, but also the needs of our audience.

If you want to make your audience happy, you have to know what they like first. Dr. Seuss understood what kids want to read and what characters would work well with a young audience. If you’re writing on a tech-related topic, tech experts and geeks like; likewise, if you’re about MLS, know what soccer fans like.

Armed with that knowledge, you can craft pieces that strike a chord with your target audience, leading to the success of those pieces.

Weaknesses in Writing and Ways to Overcome Them

1. lack of substance.

You might be a yeasty writer with much-needed experience, but if your writing lacks substance, it’s bound to run into negative reviews, and hence it is going to be less impactful!

This is especially crucial for nonfiction content, if your writing straggles and wanders all over the place, your content will be shallow.

For your content to have depth, you have to concentrate on one particular argument at a time.

And, to give your argument more depth, give supporting points and sprinkle some stats here and there.

How do you deal with the lack of substance in your writing?

Here are some tips:

• Focus on the depth of your arguments rather than the length of your article (you could have a cherry-sized paragraph that is more insightful than a chunky paragraph).
• Use literary devices to make your arguments more perspicuous.
• Use stats, case studies, or research findings to further exemplify your key arguments (use infographics where necessary).
• Your content should answer questions relevant to the topic.
• Offer tips to readers.

2. Your Writing Is Too Draggy for Your Readers

Among the 8 strengths that I explained in the previous section was understanding your audience.

If you don’t understand your audience or ignore them when writing, you end up communicating with nobody.

It’s like you’re speaking to yourself, in a big hall!

As said in the previous section, we write to touch our audience in some way; whether we want them to laugh, inspire them, inform them, or educate them.

It is a terrible idea to think that you write for yourself! If that’s the case, why don’t you just hang your content on your wall?

Here are some tips for polishing draggy content:

• Understand who you’re writing for and write for them. It doesn’t matter who (it could be you, your imaginary friends, anybody!).
• Write to solve the audience’s problems. Your writing should be a solution to your reader’s pain, personal struggles, and it should also improve their lives in some way.

3. Lack of Rhythm

Ignore the importance of rhythm at your peril. In truth, writing cannot entertain without rhythm, especially creative writing.

Just like in music, rhythm steers writing and acts as a guide for the reader.

Readers can feel your writing’s rhythm and that alone can be stimulating (that is if your writing has rhythm).

If your content lacks rhythm the pace seems invariable, it neither speeds up nor slows down.

The content also seems to lack a lot of natural pauses.

This is how you can improve it:

• While paying attention to context, mix up your sentence lengths; a long one here, a short there.
• Use transition words to maneuver the passage from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph.

4. Chaotic Flow

Imagine listening to a 5-year-old talk about all the wonderful things she experienced during the day: school, her cousin’s weird laughter, the dog’s thievery.

Unloading all that without any logical arrangement of information. None, at all!

I’d have said that that’s how your readers feel, but they are not listening to an adorable 5-year-old, are they?

They’re looking at a piece of writing—written by a supposedly mature individual—that’s full of hiccups and abrupt endings.

Your writing needs to be structured to unload information step by step. Your readers need to know that from A, they go to B. They need to know this is because of that, and this and that are related.

Your content has to answer your readers’ questions, give tips the reader would care about, and have contextual solutions.

Here are a few tips on improving flow in your writing:

• Go through your main points and ascertain whether they feel logical. If they aren’t, re-organize them in a logical order or start all over again.
• Look at the questions your content is answering and For every section, write down which question the content answers (or summarize in one bullet point)
• When editing , slowly survey the content for inconsistencies. There are little details you could miss if you read fast.

How to Turn Your Writing Weaknesses into Strengths

Nobody is perfect. We all have weaknesses. But, some of these writing weaknesses can be turned into strengths.

As a writer, how can you improve your writing?

• Ask for help . You can strengthen your writing skills on your own (no doubt about it), but it’s a lot less tedious when you reach out to other writers to help identify your weak areas and offer other insights.
• Read . Not only will you get an education from books and publications, but you’ll also find inspiration.
• Persevere . Perseverance can help you deal with problems such as writer’s block. It is also perseverance that will see you through periods during which you’re suffering from imposter syndrome.

Final Words on Strengths and Weaknesses in Writing

To be a better writer, you’ve got to know which areas to strengthen and which weaknesses to overcome.

 You’ll—in abundance—focus, perseverance, creativity, and a lot of humility. It will be laborious work but worth every joule expended and every second used.

You have got to believe in yourself as a writer, but don’t let your confidence blind you—there will always be something that your writing is missing.

Recommended Reading...

How to get over writers block: 30 ways to unleashing your creative potential, 9 effective ways to overcome your fear of writing.

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