How to Answer: What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Youth Worker job interview.
3. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve?
What You Need to Know
No one enjoys talking about their weaknesses. It can feel uncomfortable and vulnerable to share aspects about yourself that you could improve. Rest assured, the interviewer understands that you have flaws - we all do!
The most important thing to remember is that the hiring authority wants to see that you are self-aware and proactive when it comes to making positive changes. Discuss your weakness, and be sure to focus on what you're doing to improve. It is essential to wrap up your answer on a positive note.
Written by Rachelle Enns on May 21st, 2013
Entry Level Example
"My greatest weakness is emotionally taking my work home with me. I owe it to myself, and my family, to strive toward striking a healthy balance, and I am actively working on this. Some days are more challenging than others. But it t takes concerted practice and discipline to leave the emotions of this immersive career at work. I journal almost every day, and I talk to trusted leaders and experienced colleagues if I am struggling with a particular situation. However, I sometime wonder if this weakness will always be a work in progress for me."
Written by Kevin Downey on December 9th, 2022
Experienced Example
"I am highly empathetic, compassionate, and care deeply about my clients. It's part of my job to care, so it's hard not get too emotionally involved. Of course, I set boundaries and stick to them, but this can make things harder sometimes. Especially when you're dealing with a young one whose story is particularly heartbreaking. It's hard not to internalize those moments On those days. To find a better balance of self-care, I'll take the long way home, or take public transit, to reflect on my day. I also use mindfulness apps and have completed online mindfulness training, which doubles as an asset for the youth with whom I work."
Written by Kevin Downey on December 9th, 2022
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