What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve?
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.
"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."
"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."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
My greatest weakness is my mental health. I have bipolar disorder. I've learned to radically accept my circumstances, and leave judgment, including self-judgment, at the door. Through seeking support and therapy, I have learned that a community can change an individual, and no one succeeds in a vacuum. I have to be humble, authentic, and persistent, making everyday count to stay in remission. Every day is a new day to choose health over illness.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is a very honest, vulnerable answer that the interviewer should really appreciate. Your efforts are strong, and it seems you will be a great influence on the youth you work with.
Anonymous Answer
Some times I am overly analytical, which means that I can struggle to make quick decisions and take decisive action. I am aware that I do this, and I am taking steps to take decisive action whenever possible.
Rachelle's Feedback
It's terrific that you can clearly identify an area of weakness and how it impacts you in the workplace (taking decisive action). When approaching discussions around a weakness, it's important to provide more specifics around your action steps to overcome the weakness. If you'd like to learn more, we have a guide here: https://www.mockquestions.com/articles/How to Answer 5 of The Most Common Interview Questions/
Anonymous Answer
I talk a lot and sometimes too much. I am very much an extravert and sometimes find myself dominating the conversation too much and have to consciously pull back. I am aware of this but it doesn't come naturally to me, pulling back has become a learned behavior and I usually have it under control but every now and then I have to keep it in check. I make sure to remind myself regularly to pull back if necessary and I pay more attention to other people in social conversations.
Stephanie's Feedback
This comes across as very genuine and reflective. We all have growth edges, and it sounds like you're actively working to improve these areas.
Anonymous Answer
My greatest weakness is not taking work emotions home with me. I do many things to help me out at home with trying to let go of it all but it takes time to learn that and be able to do that every day. I usually will watch a show, visit with my family, or do something creative such as coloring, journaling, painting, etc. Usually, I pick something that isn't too demanding physically because I am tired. This all seems to help me leave those emotions behind and start a new day when I get up to come back into work.
Stephanie's Feedback
Great response--this shows a high level of emotional maturity and vulnerability, as well as valuable coping skills. Good for you!
Anonymous Answer
I have recently become a Dad and at times I can miss being with my family, this is why I'm seeking new employment as my current role involves me working 24-hour shifts, which no longer helps me maintain a work-life balance which is important to me. I'm being proactive in my approach and seeking new employment which helps address my and my family's needs. However, I still understand the importance of employment and strive to find a new position in that I can use all my built-up knowledge and experience.
Marcie's Feedback
It's definitely understandable that at times you miss your family, particularly if you recently had a child. Achieving a good work-life balance is very important. Having said that, missing your family might not be seen by the interviewer as a weakness. To be on the safe side, you might want to discuss a true weakness here (like you have a tendency to be a perfectionist or to focus too much on the details, you have trouble saying no, and so on). Good job!
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