How would your co-workers describe you?
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The first thing you need to recognize is when an interviewer is asking this question, it is because they are testing you on your competencies. They want to forecast your behaviour and envision you fitting into their company’s culture. In other words, they want you to highlight your strengths, or weaknesses and how you believe others perceive you.
Competencies
So what comes to mind when we think of competencies and the value you can add to an organisation?
Ideally you want to get across that you are:
- Approachable
- Enthusiastic
- Hardworking
- Dedicated
- Honest
- Easy going
- Reliable
For this question, you need to give examples from your previous or current employment which exemplifies a select number of these qualities, be it a time you were the only person who showed up the day after the Christmas party or even that you and your previous colleagues still catch up over drinks every so often. Interviewers are not that scary! They want you to be relatable. Your examples should aim to firstly highlight your strengths, skills and competencies, but secondly it should also aim to portray your personality.
An important trait to get across are your problem solving skills. You should have in mind several examples from a previous job which highlights your problem solving skills.
Similarly, teamwork skills are another focal point your prospect employer will examine you on. These skills are tested again through using examples which highlight your ability to fit in with a team. ” Be ready with examples of how you have successfully collaborated in team situations in previous jobs or in your extra curricular activities.
You will want to be able to portray yourself in a positive light without sounding too self-absorbed! You’ll come across as authentic by using concrete examples and a genuine tone.
