A person might need to develop a statement of personal strengths for a job application, resume or curriculum vita. A personal statement is often a part of an application to a college or university, especially when applying to a specific department or internship program. Graduate school applicants also normally need to submit a personal statement including their personal strengths, as well as their goals and reasons for applying.
Strengths Shown Through Experiences
When discussing one or more personal strengths, it can be helpful to detail an experience in which you demonstrated a strength you possess. Although you can't rely on one or two anecdotes to get you into a program or a job, they can be used to show the people reviewing your application examples of you putting your strengths into action. A personal anecdote can also distinguish your application in the mind of the reviewer.
A Good Fit
Universities and employers like to see how you would add to their program or company. This can be the perfect opportunity for you to highlight one or more of your personal strengths. For example, if you have a strong academic and working background in organic chemistry, include this on an application to get into a graduate program in chemistry.
Brag About Your Strengths
Don't be shy about stating your strengths. Although normally boasting is considered bad manners, it is important to understand that strongly stating your strengths and abilities in a job or college application can make the difference in getting the place you want. Being able to clearly state that you have experience as a highly successful multitasker or that you have strong organizational skills is a vital component in winning a position or a place in college.
Acknowledge Room for Improvement
Many job and college applicants answer a question about their weaknesses in a way that undermines the strength of their application. If you are asked to write or talk about your greatest weakness, you might be tempted to give an answer that sounds more like a strength then an actual weakness. You can be assured, though, that employers and college admissions representatives are familiar with this tactic. Honestly answering the question and naming a quality that you actually believe could be improved will generally increase your chances of getting hired or admitted.
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