How to Talk about Your Greatest Achievement

How to answer this question during an interview

Use the STAR approach

1. Situation

In the first part of your answer, provide brief context that sets up your accomplishment. Describe a certain issue you, your team or your company is experiencing.

Example: “I moved to Germany in 2016 and needed to find a way to earn money even though I didn’t speak German.

2. Task

Next, explain your role within the situation. What did you do in order to deal with the issue?

Example: “I decided to start a business as an English teacher.”

3. Approach

Then, discuss the ways you contributed to making an impact or solving a problem.

Example: “Little by little my student base grew. I got further training to improve my methods and teaching style. I developed a brand identity and focused on business clients.” 

4. Result

To complete your answer, describe the positive outcome of your work. If you can provide concrete results with numbers (saved the company $5,000, increased sales by 30%) your answer will be more impactful.

Example: “Today, I work with clients in Germany and in France. I’ve expanded into online courses, a podcast and YouTube channel. I also have a strong presence on LinkedIn. But most importantly, my students are satisfied with the support I give them.”

Example Script

I moved to Germany at the beginning of 2016. I could not speak a word of German and needed to figure out a way to earn a living. During my university studies I taught English at a language school. I thought I could do the same in Germany. My wife didn’t agree with me. She said I needed to speak German to explain grammar rules to students. Nevertheless, I established my business and looked for students on EbayKleinanzeige. 

Little by little my student base grew. I got further training to improve my methods and teaching style. I developed a brand identity and focused on business clients. 

Today, I work with clients in Germany and in France. I’ve expanded into online courses, a podcast and YouTube channel. I also have a strong presence on LinkedIn. But most importantly, my students are satisfied with the support I give them.