How to Answer: "What are your weaknesses?" in an Interview (2024)

2.1

Answer strategically.

In your answer to "What are your weaknesses?", it's important not to mention a real weakness. In other words, you want to mention a skill or trait that is not critical to the position you are interviewing for.

For example, if you're applying for a job in customer service, you do not want to mention that you "don't have great people skills." Furthermore, you should not select a random weakness, e.g., "I'm a perfectionist," which could come off as too scripted.

2.2

Give an example of how you have used this weakness to grow professionally.

How to Answer: "What are your weaknesses?" in an Interview (2)

Your "weakness" should be an example or story of how you have struggled with an aspect of work, and how you corrected or overcame that weakness in your professional life. This tells your employer that you're a good fit for the role by emphasizing your ability to find solutions to problems.

If you are actively working on overcoming a particular weakness, be sure to explain your plan-of-action during the interview.

How to Answer: "What are your weaknesses?" in an Interview (2024)

FAQs

What is your best weakness answer? ›

Choose a weakness that isn't essential to the job you're applying to and stress exactly how you're addressing it. Some weaknesses you can mention include impatience, multitasking, self-criticism, and procrastination. An authentic answer goes a long way.

How do you respond to weaknesses in an interview? ›

Be honest and choose a real weakness. Provide an example of how you've worked to improve upon your weakness or learn a new skill to combat the issue. Demonstrate self-awareness and an ability to look to others to provide you with the resources necessary for growth. Don't be arrogant and don't underestimate yourself.

Why should I hire you? ›

A: When answering, focus on your relevant skills, experience, and achievements that make you the best fit for the role.You should hire me because I am a hard worker who wants to help your company succeed. I have the skills and experience needed for the job, and I am eager to learn and grow with your team .

What is your biggest strength and weakness? ›

My weakness is I cannot deny when someone asks me for help. Strengths: I'm diligent and self-disciplined. And I committed to lifelong learning, I'm genuinely want to build a career in your company. Weakness: My biggest weaknesses are my communication, interpersonal skills and public speaking.

What is the best answer for "Tell me about yourself"? ›

Provide a Brief Highlight-Summary of Your Experience

The best way to answer "Tell me about yourself" is with a brief highlight-summary of your experience, your education, the value you bring to an employer, and the reason you're looking forward to learning more about this next job and the opportunity to work with them.

What is the most common weakness? ›

Common weaknesses professionals often mention in job interviews include perfectionism, public speaking, and workaholism. But remember, instead of going for the most common ones, it's best to choose a weakness that genuinely applies to you and that you're currently working to overcome.

What are some sentence on weakness? ›

Examples of weakness in a Sentence

The tutor assessed the student's strengths and weaknesses. The basketball team has few weaknesses. Chocolate is my greatest weakness. He has a weakness for desserts.

What are positive weaknesses? ›

What are good weaknesses? A good weakness refers to a weakness that can be seen in a positive light. For example, being too critical could mean that you pick up on mistakes that your colleagues would otherwise miss in a project.

What if an interviewer asks what are your strengths and weaknesses? ›

The interviewer is looking for a genuine response that shows you know your worth, understand where you can improve, and a willingness to do so. Keep your answers short: Focus on 1–2 examples of strengths and weaknesses and add plenty of detail. Remember, the quality of your answers is what counts, not the quantity.

What is your greatest weakness self critical? ›

Sample Answer: “I tend to be overly critical of my work, which sometimes affects my confidence and decision-making. I've realized that while it's important to strive for excellence, being too self-critical can be counterproductive.

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