When someone asks about your professional strengths, where do your thoughts go? Most people immediately think of what they’re good at—often technical skills that others have praised them for. But I encourage you to take this a step further. If you have a talent but don’t enjoy the work associated with it, you might struggle to find motivation, and eventually, you could burn out.
When thinking about strengths, consider not only what you do well but also what energizes you. This intersection is where you’ll find the sweet spot for performance. In interviews, your genuine enthusiasm will naturally come through when you discuss these strengths.
In recent years, there’s been a shift in how we talk about so-called “soft skills.” These skills—like collaboration, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and time management—are now often referred to as “power skills.” The term “soft skills” might have contributed to their undervaluation, suggesting they’re easy or just nice to have. But in reality, these skills are critical for success in the professional world, hence the rebranding as “power skills.”
Have you heard soft skills described as “power skills”? How does this new term shift your thinking about these skills?
When considering your skills and passions, don’t limit yourself to your professional training or job experiences. Broaden your search to include skills and interests you’ve developed outside of your degree or day job. Perhaps you volunteer with a professional organization, write for a newsletter, or coach a team sport. These activities can reveal more about what you excel at and enjoy, expanding the range of skills and stories you can showcase to a hiring manager.
Take a few minutes to think outside your traditional work experience. Where do you find some passion or expertise that could benefit your career?