Interview question: What are your weaknesses?
Interview question: What are your weaknesses?
February 18, 2013
One of our readers commented on a post and discussed a tough question that they were asked in an interview. What a great topic for a blog post, I thought!
Oh, the “weakness” question. It can be very troublesome and scary. I’m sure it’s one of those questions that will leave you wondering if someone turned up the heat in the office and asking yourself, “Why am I suddenly sweating?”
My advice is to plan for the question. It’s not easy to admit to yourself what skills or qualities you may need improving on. The point of the question isn’t to have you warn them of all of the reasons why they shouldn’t hire you. It’s a question designed to test your self-awareness and humility.
The best way to handle the question is by turning it into a positive by tying it into something you’re looking at improving. For example, say your weakness is that you have a crippling stage fright that makes it virtually impossible for you to stand in front of a group of people—large or small—and give a presentation. (Don’t worry, it’s a common fear.) Once you identify this weakness (whatever it may be), make a tangible and realistic plan to tackle it.
Scenario!
Employer: So, tell me, what is your biggest weakness?
You: Well, I’ve thought a lot about this. I could definitely say that an area of improvement of mine is my public speaking skills. I tend to get really nervous, but I am working to improve it. I just enrolled in a workshop to help improve my confidence and delivery. It’s going well! I’m actually scheduled to deliver a speech next week.
End Scene
See how that went? You were asked a very targeted and revealing question. You answered honestly, but you also showed initiative in working towards improving that weakness. Good for you!
The point is to demonstrate that you’re humble and are able to acknowledge your own areas for improvement. More importantly, it will allow you to showcase problem solving skills and initiative.
What other interview questions do you find difficult? Share them and I may write about it!
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