How to answer “What are your greatest strengths?”

They want to know whether you understand what you're good at and whether those strengths match what this role needs. They also want proof, not just adjectives.

Updated October 2026

What a strong answer shows

Two or three specific strengths that are relevant to the role
A concrete example from class, a project, a job or a student org that proves each strength
Self-awareness and confidence without arrogance

A simple structure: Claim, prove, connect

Claim: Name one or two strengths in plain words, choosing ones the job posting values.
Prove: Give a short, specific example of a time you used that strength, with what you did and what happened.
Connect: Explain in one sentence how that strength will help you in this internship or role.
Wrap up: Keep the whole answer under a minute and end on enthusiasm for the role.

Sample answer

I'd say my two biggest strengths are [strength 1, e.g., breaking down complex problems] and [strength 2, e.g., keeping a team organized]. For example, in [class/project/club], our group had to [describe the challenge]. I [specific action you took, like creating a task plan or debugging the core issue], and as a result we [outcome, e.g., finished early or earned a strong grade]. I also saw this at [campus job or organization], where I [brief second example]. I think those strengths fit well with this [role name], since the posting mentions [skill from the job description], and I'm excited to bring that same approach to your team.

A general example: swap the [brackets] for your own experience, and say it in your own words.

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Mistakes to avoid

Listing generic adjectives like 'hardworking' or 'passionate' with no example to back them up
Picking strengths that have nothing to do with the role
Naming too many strengths so none of them feel convincing

Likely follow-up questions

What's your greatest weakness? Pick a real but manageable weakness and explain the concrete steps you're taking to improve it.
How would your teammates or a professor describe you? Keep it consistent with the strengths you named and mention any real feedback you've received.
Can you give another example of that strength? Have a second short story ready from a different setting, like a job or student org.