What is your greatest professional achievement?

1 Choose an achievement that is relevant

The first step is to choose an achievement that is relevant to the job you are applying for. You want to demonstrate that you have the skills and experience that the employer is looking for, and that you can add value to their organization. Think about the main requirements and goals of the role, and how your achievement aligns with them. For example, if you are applying for a sales position, you might choose an achievement that shows how you increased revenue, closed a deal, or exceeded a quota. If you are applying for a project management position, you might choose an achievement that shows how you delivered a project on time, within budget, and with high quality.

2 Use the STAR method to structure your answer

The second step is to use the STAR method to structure your answer. This method stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result and is a great way to succinctly describe an achievement. When using this method, begin by providing some background and context for your achievement. Then explain what your role and responsibility was, as well as the actions you took to solve the challenge or problem. Be sure to use examples and numbers to quantify your impact. Finally, highlight the outcome and benefits of your actions, showing how you achieved or exceeded your goals and added value to the organization or customers.

3 Highlight your skills and strengths

The third step is to highlight your skills and strengths that are relevant to the job. You want to show the interviewer that you have the competencies and qualities that they are looking for, and that you can perform well in the role. Think about the skills and strengths that you used or developed in your achievement, and how they match the job description. For example, if you are applying for a customer service position, you might highlight your communication, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction skills. If you are applying for a leadership position, you might highlight your teamwork, delegation, and feedback skills.

4 Be confident and humble

The fourth step is to be confident and humble in your answer. You should express pride and enthusiasm for your achievement, but also recognize the contributions of others and the room for improvement. To do this, use positive and assertive language such as "I achieved" or "I led", and back up your claims with numbers and facts. Additionally, mention the feedback or recognition you received, give credit to your team or colleagues, discuss the challenges or difficulties you faced, and talk about the lessons or skills you learned. Doing this will help you sound confident without being arrogant or boastful, while also highlighting your successes.

5 Practice and refine your answer

The fifth step is to practice and refine your answer. You should prepare your answer in advance and rehearse it until you feel confident and comfortable. Additionally, tailor your answer to the specific job and company you are applying for, as well as adjust it according to the feedback you receive. To do so, write down your answer using the STAR method and review it for clarity, relevance, and impact. Use a timer to check the length of your answer, aiming for 1-2 minutes. Record yourself or ask a friend to listen to your answer and check for your tone, pace, and delivery. Ask for feedback on your content, structure, and style, then make improvements accordingly. Research the company and role, aligning your answer with their mission, vision, and values. Anticipate follow-up questions too, preparing additional details or examples to support your answer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?