What is your weakest characteristic, and what are you doing to improve on it?
In this case, you must be honest; however, you will want to choose a weakness that is not a core need for the interviewing company. Be prepared to recognize that you aren't great at everything. Choose a fault that you can begin to improve immediately. What the interviewer will also be looking for is that you have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness. Maybe you listen to podcasts, read books, and actively learn new methodologies to improve this shortcoming. We are all human with our flaws, so don't be afraid to share yours!
"My weakness comes in task delegation. I know what needs doing in a successful investigation and how I want it done, so it's often easier to do it myself. However, it can inhibit my ability to grow, as well as the abilities of those around me. I am currently reading 'The Art of Delegation.' This book has given me ideas on how to grow the responsibilities of those around me. Already, I find my propensity to hold onto control has decreased, so I'm certainly moving in the right direction."
"My supervisor recently provided me with the feedback that I need to spend less time concerning myself with policy and more time trusting that I am making the right decision for an investigation and my team. I believe this is a common weakness of investigators who are newer to their careers. I have been working to improve this by reading more case studies and breaking down the outcome. I believe the more I know, the more I will learn to trust my knowledge base and problem-solving process."
Focus your answer on explaining what steps you are taking to improve your weakest characteristic. The interviewer is more interested in hearing how you will turn your weakness into a strength, showing that you are self-aware and motivated to grow professionally.
Avoid describing your weakest characteristic as one that is not relevant to the job of a criminal investigator. The interviewer is more interested in how you plan to improve professionally rather than personally.
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