How to Answer: What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Substance Abuse Social Worker job interview.
23. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession but not an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your interpersonal skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent Substance Abuse Social Worker.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is finding a work/life balance. I love my job and often take on overtime, which cuts into my family life. To find more balance, I started scheduling my family time as I would my work schedule. If I am asked to work overtime when I have scheduled family time, I politely decline. Making more time for my family has helped me relieve stress and keeps me more focused and energetic at work."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 19th, 2022