A big part of your life involves other people — whether it’s those you work with, classmates in college, potential dates or friends on social media. In some cases, your actions speak louder than your words, but when it comes to describing yourself in job interviews or on resumes and cover letters, your choice of adjectives can have a significant impact.
Hiring managers ask this question because they want to see how your qualities and skills match the job requirements. They also want to gauge your personality and how you’ll fit with their team. If you’re not prepared to answer this question, you could leave a bad impression that might affect your future career.
To help you find the right words, think about what makes you unique and special. For example, you might have a rare certification or an unconventional career path that has given you a broad perspective. If that’s the case, choose words that highlight those traits and show how they can benefit a business.
Be careful not to choose words that are overused or generic. For instance, using the word “hard-working” might make you sound uninspiring and boring to interviewers or hiring managers. Instead, try to incorporate specific adjectives that convey your dedication and perseverance.
Employers are looking for employees who can be dedicated to the company, its culture and its mission. They are interested in knowing that you’ll be committed to your role and that you will continue to develop and grow with the company. You can also emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and your willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.
A successful business requires creativity and innovation. In a world where technology is constantly changing, companies are always seeking individuals who can come up with creative ideas and new ways to solve problems. You can also highlight your ability to work with other people and share knowledge and expertise to achieve a common goal.
You can demonstrate your problem-solving abilities during a job interview by discussing how you’ve been able to tackle difficult challenges and overcome obstacles. You can also highlight your analytical thinking and attention to detail, which are both important for many jobs.
In addition to your technical skills, employers look for employees who are dependable and can take initiative. They also want to know that you’re passionate about what you do and that you are motivated to succeed. To show these qualities, you can talk about how you’ve gone above and beyond to meet deadlines or how you’ve helped clients resolve issues. Be sure to include examples to back up these claims.