How to Answer: What is your greatest weakness?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an IU Health job interview.
4. What is your greatest weakness?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan to improve this weakness. Interviewers want to hear what you consider a weakness and that you are motivated to improve.
Written by Krista Wenz on June 20th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours! Again, ensure your weakness is not essential to your job with IU Health. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your written communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is essential to being an excellent healthcare professional.
Written by Krista Wenz on June 20th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"At this point in my career in the healthcare industry, my newness is my greatest weakness. To overcome this, I have committed to ten extra hours per week of study. I dive into various medical journals and spend a great deal of time educating myself beyond what my degree and internship have offered. Another way I am working to improve and gain experience is by applying for this position with IU Health."
Written by Krista Wenz on June 20th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest weakness as a healthcare professional is my typing speed. I can type 50 words per minute, which is above average. However, my goal is to get to 60 words per minute. I signed up for an online typing course and started one week ago. The course outline says I can go from beginner to pro in thirty days, spending half an hour a day practicing. I aim to be at 60 words per minute in the next thirty days."
Written by Krista Wenz on June 20th, 2022