What would you say is your greatest weakness?
This question provides insight into your self-awareness and understanding of where you may need development and if you're open to learning and growing in those areas of deficiency. Give an example that is relevant and professional and would not be essential to the job you've applied for.
"Sometimes, I struggle to say no to taking on additional tasks when my plate is already full. I'm a team player, love to help others, and like to be seen as reliable, so I'm inclined to say yes when others need help. I'm working on being more honest with myself about what I can accomplish in my forty-hour week and limiting how many extra projects or tasks I take on."
"I am a fixer; sometimes, I take the quicker route of doing the task for someone instead of taking the extra time to teach them how to do it themselves. I am more intentional in the tasks I take on and encourage others to self-help where possible and then do a screen share to help them learn the task."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have high standards and unfortunately, not everyone shares those standards, which can sometimes lead to a bit of frustration. What I found is that with a little bit of communication, I can smooth that over and never end up being a problem.
Jaymie's Feedback
This is a great example to share with the interviewer! You did a nice job sharing how you're overcoming this area of development as well.
Anonymous Answer
I tend to be a fixer so rather than take the time to show someone how to do something, I do it myself to get it done quickly. I’ve realized that although this may be efficient, it may not be the most helpful to the person who asked me for assistance. I am learning how to take the time to teach rather than fix.
Jaymie's Feedback
This is a common weakness and one that shouldn't be a deal breaker for the interviewer. Focusing more of your response on strategies you're using to overcome this area of development and the progress that you're making is key.
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