top of page

How to discover your professional strengths (ask these questions)

Writer's picture: Brittany WilsonBrittany Wilson

5 job search strategies for a difficult job market
How to discover your professional strengths

Here's something most people don't realize: the best person to assess your professional strengths isn't you - it's actually the people around you. I know that might sound strange, but think about it. When was the last time you sat down and really thought about what makes you great at what you do?


The Truth About Self-Assessment

Most of us are either too critical of ourselves or (occasionally) too generous. We focus on what we think we should be good at, instead of recognizing our natural talents. But there's a simple method I use with my clients that reveals your true professional strengths - and it starts with just a piece of paper.


The 15-Minute Assessment Method

Here's exactly what to do:


  1. Grab a piece of paper and draw two columns

  2. Label one column "Strengths/Transferrable Skills"

  3. Label the other column "Opportunities/Gaps"

  4. Set a timer for 15 minutes

  5. Write down everything you can think of in each column

  6. Repeat this exercise twice in one week


Why twice? Because the first time, you'll write down the obvious things. The second time, you'll dig deeper and discover insights you missed initially.


But here's where it gets interesting - your self-assessment is just the beginning.



Add some of these strengths to your career clarity canvas.




Tap Into Your Network's Perspective

The real gold comes from asking others. Your network sees strengths in you that you might take for granted. Here's who to ask:


  • Current and former colleagues

  • Managers (past and present)

  • Project stakeholders you've worked with

  • Clients or customers

  • Professional mentors

  • Friends who've seen you work

  • Family members who understand your career

  • Industry peers you've collaborated with


The Right Questions to Ask

When you reach out to these people, don't just ask "What am I good at?" Instead, use these thought-provoking questions:


  • "If someone asked you to describe my professional strengths, what would you say?"

  • "What type of problems do you think I solve best?"

  • "When you need help with something, what makes you think of me?"

  • "What skills or qualities set me apart from others?"

  • "Can you recall a time when I particularly impressed you? What stood out?"

  • "What areas do you think I could develop further?"

  • "In what type of role or situation do you think I would thrive?"

  • "What unique perspective or approach do I bring to challenges?"

  • "If you were building a team, what role would you want me to play?"

  • "What are my blind spots that I might not see myself?"


Making the Most of These Conversations

When you have these discussions:


  • Take notes (you'll want to reference them later)

  • Ask for specific examples

  • Listen for patterns across different conversations

  • Pay attention to surprising insights

  • Stay open to constructive feedback

  • Don't defend or explain away their observations


Analyzing Your Findings

After gathering all this information:


  1. Look for recurring themes in the feedback

  2. Compare others' perceptions with your self-assessment

  3. Note any surprising strengths you hadn't recognized

  4. Identify gaps that multiple people mention

  5. Pay attention to the types of problems people say you solve well


Turning Insights into Action

Now you can use this information to:


  • Update your resume to highlight your confirmed strengths

  • Identify roles that leverage your natural talents

  • Plan your professional development around real opportunities

  • Craft your elevator pitch using others' words about you

  • Target jobs where your strengths are valued most



Use these keywords in your resume and cover letter


The Bottom Line

Understanding your professional strengths isn't just about self-reflection - it's about gathering insights from the people who've seen you in action. Their perspective is invaluable because they see the value you bring in ways you might not recognize yourself.


Don't skip the self-assessment step, but don't stop there either. The combination of your own insights and feedback from others will give you a complete picture of your professional superpowers - and your opportunities for growth.


Remember, this isn't just a one-time exercise. As you grow in your career, your strengths will evolve. Make it a habit to check in with yourself and others at least once a year. Your professional growth depends on it.



Want to get more career advice like this delivered to your inbox? Subscribe to the Career Candor weekly newsletter.

Career Candor

  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
  • TikTok

©2024 by Allucere Coaching LLC

bottom of page