What is your weakness?
How you answer this question may offer your interviewer a glimpse into how developed your emotional intelligence is. Primarily, they are curious whether you are aware of and take ownership of, your shortcomings or growth opportunities. Someone who fears admitting to their weaknesses hasn't yet taken ownership of them. Whereas someone who can admit to their growth opportunities is more likely to be focused on their development and is consistently striving to grow as a professional.
When answering this question, think of a growth opportunity you've been working on, choosing something that isn't a required skill for the role, or something that would present you as a liability. Also, determine whether this growth opportunity is something specific that the NY Times can help you with. "Our organization values developing our people. As a learning organization, we are committed to ensuring all employees have the time, space and resources necessary to continuously learn and grow. We understand the need to know what your next step is, so every role has a career ladder that outlines the criteria and qualifications that are considered in promotion."
"I have gotten better at this, but I have trouble being selfish and asserting my needs. I am a go-getter at heart, but when it comes time to really getting up and out front, and seizing opportunities, I sometimes struggle with being loud enough. But, I have been working on this for years, and in the last year have been bold in voicing ideas for improvements in the workplace which were adopted and helped everybody. So, the more validated I feel, the bolder I become, but there's always room to grow even more."
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