What is your greatest weakness?

What You Need to Know
Answer Example
Community Answers

Avoid choosing a weakness or shortcoming that's a core skill or prerequisite for this position. Instead, focus on something you've already identified as a professional growth opportunity, showcasing that you are working on this but still have room for improvement. Acknowledge that the road to self-improvement is never-ending.

For example, being too hard on yourself when you make mistakes can compromise your self-confidence and cause you to second guess your efforts, which can result in tripping over your own feet. Examine your career progress, and exhibit self-awareness and emotional intelligence when you describe the growth opportunity you've identified. This will give them confidence that they can help you continue to grow while demonstrating strength while taking ownership of your development.

"I believe I could improve some technical skills, including Excel and PowerPoint. Currently, I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"

Anonymous Answer

"I feel my greatest weakness would be taking on more than I can chew. I want to help as many people as possible, and sometimes it's too much."

Rachelle's Feedback

This is a good start. Try sharing what you are doing to improve on this weakness. I have added an example, below.

"I feel my greatest weakness would be taking on more than I can chew. I want to help as many people as possible, and sometimes its too much. To improve on this, I have been learning the art of saying no when it's appropriate, and drawing important boundaries when needed."

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Anonymous Answer

"I was taking on more than I should. Being positive creates this, as well as being caring. I care about my tasks to the point that I keep saying yes instead of letting someone else handle it. I was told once from an employer that the only reason that I was always asked to do more was that he knew it would get done. A nice compliment for sure.

So, now, I do try to take a step back and take a breathe and determine that I can get that request done."

Lauren's Feedback

Great response. I assisted with condensing your answer.

"My greatest weakness is taking on too many tasks. I naturally step in to help others, which is generally a great quality, but it is all about moderation. I have received lots of great feedback from previous employers regarding my productivity and work output; I am viewed as an employee who can get many things done correctly and efficiently. I have learned how to take a step back and survey how much work I can realistically take on."