Q: How do I discover my strengths for a job application?

A: If you are considering applying for a new job, including your strengths in your résumé is a good way to get employers interested in hiring you. To discover your strengths, start by reflecting on your past experiences, both personal and professional. Identify moments when you excelled or felt particularly confident in your abilities. Then, consider the skills and qualities that others have praised you for. What do friends, colleagues, or mentors say you excel at?

For example, think about tasks or activities that you enjoy and perform effortlessly. Often, your strengths align with your passions. Then, create a list of technical and soft skills. Technical skills might include programming languages, design software, or data analysis. Soft skills could encompass communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork Afterward, rate your proficiency in each skill on a scale of 1 to 5. This can help you gauge where your strengths lie. Then you can take personality assessments like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), StrengthsFinder, or the Big Five Personality Test. These assessments can provide insights into your natural tendencies and strengths. You can also ask for feedback from colleagues, friends, or mentors as they can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

Endeavor to consider past performance reviews or evaluations from professors or supervisors. These often highlight your strengths. Then identify tasks or responsibilities that genuinely excite you and motivate you to excel because your passion can be a strong indicator of your strengths. In addition to that, review your accomplishments and achievements. What have you achieved in previous roles or projects? What were the key skills or qualities that contributed to your success? Research the skills and qualities highly valued in your target industry or job role. Ensure your strengths align with these expectations.

Finally, practice mock interviews with friends or career advisors. They can provide feedback on your strengths as perceived by an interviewer. With that, you can consider your personal values and how they align with the organization’s culture and mission. Organizations will often seek candidates whose values align with their own.