How to Answer: What are your weaknesses?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Benefits Manager job interview.
24. What are your weaknesses?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know the area you are weak or more challenged in regarding benefits management. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. However, pick weaknesses that are not core skills for this position. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest and greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. Identify your weakness and the action taken for improvement. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 6th, 2021
Entry Level
"Everyone has weaknesses. I tend to be too nice sometimes. When vendors are not fulfilling their requirements, I believe there must be a logical and understandable reason. To get better in this area, I have to remind myself that we are paying for a service, and they must meet our expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe I could improve on 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 to help me develop reports better. I have enrolled myself in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. I'm looking forward to seeing how stellar my skills are after that course and how I will be able to apply my skills on the job!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 6th, 2021
Experienced
"I know this will come off as cliche, but it's truthful. My weakness is not delegating. I know what I want and how I want it done, so it's often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow. I cannot take on every step of a project. I need to give the task or a portion of it to another team member or direct report, let go of the control, and know it will be taken care of. I've spoken with my current manager about it, and we've developed a system where he can call me out on the behavior since often I'm not aware of it. By bringing awareness to it at the moment, I find my propensity to hold onto control has decreased, so I'm certainly moving in the right direction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on September 6th, 2021