How to Answer: What are your strengths?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a BAE Systems job interview.
3. What are your strengths?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When speaking to your strengths, there are a few things you want to consider. You want to appear confident when discussing your strengths. You also want to adopt the language of BAE Systems when communicating your strengths and align yourself with what they are looking for. For example, this is from their careers pages on their website: "Are you creative, business-savvy, and passionate about the work you do? We're looking for inspired professionals to support our functions and drive organizational success. Contribute your expertise to a company that protects lives and makes the world a safer place."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 17th, 2023
What You Need to Know
When speaking to your strengths, it is essential to come across as calm, confident, and in your comfort zone. When a person speaks too fast, it can make them seem nervous or anxious to get the interview over with. So measure your responses, and try to relax. As HireVue puts it, "Just be natural! Get comfortable and be confident in yourself. Just relax. Prepare, take a deep breath, and be yourself." Look up terms you feel apply to you or are naturally part of your vocabulary. Use professional adjectives to describe yourself and your situation, such as creative, passionate, business-savvy, inspired, and successful. Other positive terms to consider are career-focused, ambitious, persistent, genuine, patient, enthusiastic, and disciplined.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 17th, 2023
Tips
This question will help the assessment vendor evaluate how confident you are that you're the right fit for this opportunity and whether you're pursuing it for the right reasons. So, before the interview, research the body language of a confident and relaxed person in a seated position. Pump yourself up with physical exercise to manifest confidence. Go into a private space with a mirror, look yourself in the eye, and give yourself a pep talk. Raise your arms, stretch your back, and make yourself as big as possible. Then practice your answers in front of the camera and record your voice to cast away any insecurity, nervousness, or self-doubt. Share what you have to offer and why you believe it. BAE Systems also advises that candidates "practice interviewing out loud. Try rehearsing in front of a mirror or with an audience. Don't memorize your answers, but be comfortable enough with them that you can talk naturally when asked."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 17th, 2023
Experienced Example
"I'd say one of my strengths is my attitude, positivity, passion, and determination to succeed. I always have my eye on the big picture and am extremely loyal, especially when I am provided the opportunity. You can count on me to contribute any way I can and to support the company's vision and goals"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 18th, 2023
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Clear Identification of Strengths: Your answer clearly identifies specific strengths, including determination, drive, a focus on the bigger picture, and strong communication and teamwork skills. This provides the interviewer with a well-rounded view of your capabilities.
Relevance to the Role: Mentioning determination, drive, strategic thinking, and teamwork align well with what many employers, including BAE Systems, typically look for in their employees.
Link to Real-World Experience: Connecting your strengths to real-world examples, such as work experience and involvement in team sports, adds authenticity and shows that your strengths are not just theoretical but have been demonstrated in practical settings.
Areas for Improvement:
Specific Examples: While you mention your strengths, providing specific examples could make your answer more impactful. For instance, elaborating on a situation where your determination led to a successful outcome or where your teamwork skills were crucial can provide concrete evidence of your abilities.
Tailoring to BAE Systems: Consider customizing your response to more specifically address the needs or values of BAE Systems. Researching the company culture and the specific qualities they value in employees can help you tailor your response more effectively.
Here's a slightly enhanced version for reference:"