In filling out an employment application I've been asked about my achievements/failures at work. How 2 answer?

Answer 1

Have another look at the job description. There are often clues in it to help with application forms. Look for attributes or experience the job description says the employer is looking for and note them on a separate piece of paper.

Next to each write some examples of how your achievements (preferably at work but also outside work) demonstrate or show you how you acquired some of the attributes/skills they are looking for.

Select the ones that seem to be most important to the job and put them in your application. Try to do two things with each point. 1) Tell the company what you did. 2) Tell them how it helped your team or organisation.

e.g. I trained two new starters which meant they could work independantly by the end of the day instead within the week.

I acheived sales 10% above my targets which helped my team acheive $/£100,000 extra sales that year.

Also be honest - they will only catch you out at interview.

If the questionnaire actually asks you for failures I would try not to give any unless you can think of a great failure which was a learning experience for you which then meant you were successful in the future. In anycase I'd suggest you only mention failures that were part of your non-work life.

Good luck with the applications!

Answer 2

I would note any projects you worked on that helped the company. Give yourself props! Avoid talking about failures, or disciplinary action at your last job.