What would you say is one initial weakness that you would have in this role with NASA?
Even though the recruiters at NASA are looking for excellence, they know that any candidate they interview isn't the perfect candidate. The motivation behind a question like this is twofold. First, NASA wants to know any areas they may need to offer you additional support if selected for the role. Second, they are likely testing your integrity and looking for candidates who offer truthful and authentic responses.
"I tend to be a perfectionist, which means I can often get caught up in the details and get behind on deadlines. I am working on creating a better infrastructure for my days, setting reasonable goals, and planning. This method has helped me to manage my time and not lose time striving for impossible perfection in my work. Here at NASA, I am confident that your team-based atmosphere will really help me curb my perfectionist approach, knowing that I'd have a great team surrounding me."
"Relationships are key to success for a project manager. If hired, I will not have a strong network of relationships to lean on here at NASA right away. It takes time to establish trust with teammates, customers, and/or stakeholders. While this may be an initial weakness, I am confident I can address the gap quickly. I enjoy meeting new people and I am a skilled networker. I am accountable and trustworthy and I have been able to develop strategic relationships quickly within my previous roles. I feel I will be able to do the same here at NASA."
"I have focused recently on machine learning, virtual reality, and AI technologies. While I have some experience with augmented reality tech, my experience in this area is not as strong as the other three. I am already working to fill the gap and I am 100% confident that I will be able to continue learning and working to utilize AR solutions effectively if hired for the XYZ role here at NASA."
To successfully answer this question, you will need to be strategic. First, think of an area where you can improve that pertains to the job description for the role that you are interviewing for. For example, maybe you could do a better job of taking the initiative to solve problems before they become an issue, or you need to work on a skill they have listed as a nice-to-have in the job description.
Even though it may feel vulnerable to share a weakness, your self-awareness is a strength! Your insight that you know you need to grow in this area shows the interviewer that you know you have room for improvement and that you have a desire to grow.
Explain the gap and what you are proactively doing to improve. Make sure to not be hard on yourself. Show that you are dedicated to growing and learning from your weaknesses.
Unlock all 35 NASA questions
Unlock expert responses that prepare you for NASA's rigorous aerospace interviews.
Get Started