What's an achievement you are proud of?

This is a question worth preparing for. Why? Because you could be asked, particularly if achieving results is important in the job. Even if that’s not the case (is there a job where delivering results is not important?) it’s still worth considering because it challenges you to reflect on your achievements.

Some people will then say they don’t have any. This is usually not true. It has more to do with what a person defines as an achievement. It doesn’t have to be an Olympic gold medal, a listing in the Australia Day Awards, or knighthood from the Queen.

Talking about an achievement you are proud of is an invitation to tell a story about something you have done that you are pleased with. It may be work related. It may be about completing qualifications. It could be about something you did in the community which has not received much, if any, recognition, but because what you did made a difference, you gained some sense of satisfaction from it.

Perhaps you coached a local sporting team. Maybe you helped raise money for charity. Maybe you built something. Whatever it is, the story is about what you did and why you feel proud as a result.

Other useful articles:

• How to express passion
• How to start a self-promotion comment

Dr Ann Villiers, learning guide, professional speaker and author, is Australia's only Mental Nutritionist® specialising in mind and language practices that help people build flexible thinking, confident speaking and quality connections with people. Visit www.mentalnutrition.com to learn more about Mental Nutrition. Visit www.selectioncriteria.com.au for free resources unlocking the mysteries of public service jobs.