How to Answer: What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Water Conservationist job interview.
19. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to determine if you have a healthy level of self-awareness and can be open and honest, particularly about your shortcomings. They also want to know that you pursue self-improvement and growth opportunities to deal with these issues, as opposed to letting these weaknesses hold you back. Hiring managers don't expect you to overcome your weaknesses overnight. Everyone has areas they must constantly work on to stay sharp.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on April 7th, 2022
How to Answer
Use this question to demonstrate how you've used a weakness as motivation to learn a new skill or grow professionally. Everyone has weaknesses; your interviewer doesn't expect you to be perfect. Choose a weakness that will not prevent you from succeeding in the role. Provide an example of how you've worked to improve upon your weakness or learn a new skill to combat the issue. Also, demonstrate self-awareness and an ability to find help when you need it and grow from the experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on April 7th, 2022
Answer Example
"I don't have much patience when working with a large team. I'm incredibly self-sufficient, so it's difficult when I need to rely on others to complete my work. That's why I've pursued roles that require me to work independently. However, I've also worked to improve this weakness by enrolling in team-building workshops. While I typically work independently, I must learn how to delegate, trust my coworkers, and ask for outside help when necessary."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on April 7th, 2022