Today, we discuss something that I’ve covered extensively with my clients in our VIP 1:1 sessions and group coaching sessions. What does it actually mean to answer this question:
What is an area of weakness or area of improvement for the applicant?
This question often comes up in applications, reference letters, and job search and academic interviews. After being on admissions committees and providing references for applicants for many years now, I am challenging the misconceptions (what else is new!) about this question and tell you exactly what admissions committees and employers are looking for. (Hint: Contrary to Google and popular belief, being detail-oriented is not considered a weakness!)
Here are some key takeaways from this episode:
- Answering this question requires applicants and referees to frame the applicant’s area of weakness or improvement around self-awareness and growth, and being able to take feedback in order to move forward and overcome barriers. It’s about telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end and finishing with a strong note.
- Referees, in my opinion, have an obligation to the applicant to support them wholeheartedly, and should only say “yes” to being a reference if they will 100% support them and represent the significance of the applicant’s experiences. But there are some circumstances when referees do have to say “no” to applicants, such as when students approach them too late in the application cycle, or when they don’t know the student well enough from time spent together in class.
- Reference letters actually take a substantial amount of time to write, so potential referees should be given at least 3 months notice to begin drafting.
- Forming meaningful relationships and networking are so important in academic and professional advancement, and, of course, the application process, so start early!
If you have any questions about today’s episode and want to connect with us at Apply Yourself: The Advancement Spot, you can always email me personally at hello@applyyourselfglobal.com or at adrienne@applyyourselfglobal.com. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal – Tell us how you’re framing this question in your application!
>>> Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can finish your applications – with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Adrienne, an Admissions Committee Member. Check out Adrienne’s Calendar and book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about if this program is right for you!
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Resources and links mentioned in this episode:
Episode 27: HR Recruitment With Olessia Lapina