Oh no, that dreaded interview question has arrived: \u201cWhat three words would you use to describe yourself?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve probably spent time researching the company and rehearsing answers to the most common interview questions<\/a>. Maybe you assume that you can skip practicing this one. After all, you already know the subject.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t do it! A lack of preparation might find you stating you were more dedicated than everyone <\/em>at your last job. Hmmm…sounds like you\u2019re difficult to work with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Or you might start rambling about how you’re super friendly when actually, you\u2019re starting to appear unorganized. Worse yet, you can start blurting out words that almost guarantee no callback<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead, spend some time creating a list of words that appropriately describe you<\/strong>, and then jot down a few notes or experiences that support your claim to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Similar to how you would tailor your resume for each job<\/a>, study the job description and what kind of characteristics will be considered a great fit. Pick three specific traits and rehearse them<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Which ones should you choose? Well, it depends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A hiring committee at an accounting firm, for example, might be looking for someone organized<\/em>, diligent<\/em>, and hardworking<\/em>, whereas a team hiring for a sales role<\/a> may be more impressed with someone flexible<\/em> and resilient<\/em>. Consider commonly-used adjectives that are often used to describe individual roles<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Most companies are seeking common traits in their leaders<\/a>. Contrary to what you might think, it\u2019s not just about the results but also about how you got there. Consider the nuances of showcasing how you support<\/em> and empower<\/em> your team, rather than enforcing discipline and boundaries. Great leaders understand that inspiring others will yield better results<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be cautious that you are describing leadership rather than management. If your answers are bold<\/em>, take-charge<\/em>, <\/em>and assertive<\/em>, you might give the impression that you\u2019ll get the job done at any cost. When considering how you\u2019ll lead a team, the company may be more impressed with someone confident<\/em>, proactive<\/em>, and supportive<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the reasons employers ask you to describe yourself is to understand how you\u2019ll fit into the team culture<\/a>. For example, someone who enjoys routine and clearly-defined boundaries may struggle in a remote company with flexible schedules. Highlight how you work within a team<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When showcasing your soft skills<\/a>, remember to avoid sounding arrogant. While certain terms might be justified and earned, they can come across the wrong way if you apply them to yourself<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Maybe your coworkers always comment on how humble<\/em> or charismatic<\/em> you are. But saying you\u2019re humble makes you sound like the opposite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When compiling your list of words to describe yourself, choose words that you can back up with an example. For instance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cI\u2019d describe myself as mindful<\/em><\/strong>, responsive<\/em><\/strong>, and focused<\/em><\/strong>. In my most recent role, I helped lead the transition to a new software system. Being mindful<\/em><\/strong> <\/em>that many team members were uncomfortable changing from their familiar system, I was intentionally responsive <\/em><\/strong>during the transition. <\/em><\/strong>I quickly answered their questions, and I focused<\/em><\/strong> on addressing common struggles so they could feel comfortable supporting one another.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n This answer showcases empathy with the team, a big-picture perspective, and an organized approach to a situation. While you need both hard and soft skills<\/a> to succeed, soft skills showcase your personality and people skills in ways that a certificate can\u2019t demonstrate<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Skill Set Should You Showcase in a Job Interview?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Best Words to Describe Your Leadership Qualities (Examples)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Best Words to Describe Your Work Ethic (Examples)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Best Words to Describe Your Soft Skills (Examples)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to Describe Yourself:
Support the Words You Choose With Stories<\/h3>\n\n\n\nPrepare and Practice for Successful Job Interviews<\/h3>\n\n\n\n