What is your greatest weakness?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example
Community Answers

During a job interview, interviewers may inquire about your greatest weakness to gauge your self-awareness and ability to improve. By acknowledging a weakness and explaining how you have taken steps to overcome it, you showcase your eagerness to learn and develop as an employee. Furthermore, this question allows the interviewer to evaluate the honesty and authenticity of your response, which can be crucial when making hiring decisions. In general, it's an opportunity for the interviewer to better understand your character and potential as a candidate.

Choose a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan to improve 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 taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!

"In my experience, I have found that overthinking can be a challenge. It's important to balance analysis with action, so I practice mindfulness and rely on my instincts to help me make decisions and move forward."

"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 a weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"

"I have identified a weakness of mine in easily getting distracted. I tend to lose focus on my tasks and get sidetracked by unimportant things. To address this, I will implement time management techniques and set daily goals for myself. Additionally, I will work on staying mindful and present during my tasks to maintain focus and productivity. With practice and dedication, I am confident I can overcome this weakness and become more efficient in my work."

Anonymous Answer

"I would say "my emotions". I hate to see people sad. This has affected me in some bad ways. One event I won't forget is when I was due for a promotion, I rejected the offer because my senior who had spent more than 2 years in the facility was not recognized. The management transferred the award to her. I was fine with it till she became a stranger to me. It still hurts but I can't change it."

Marcie's Feedback

Wow! That was very kind of you. This is a good weakness to cite because it can also be seen as a positive, especially in your profession. After all, your emotions enable you to be compassionate! So what was the lesson you took away from that experience? Do you now strive to keep your emotions a bit more in check? What are some other steps you've taken to overcome this weakness of yours?

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

"Delegation tasks."

Marcie's Feedback

Why is this your weakness? What steps are you taking to overcome this weakness? (Make sure you tell the interviewer this so they know that you're trying to improve in this area.) Also, be sure to discuss your weakness so it can also be seen in a positive light (for instance, you might explain that sometimes you have trouble delegating tasks to others because you have high standards and worry that others won't complete the tasks as well as you would). Good job!