What Is Your Weakness: Sample Answer

Learn the best strategy to answer the tricky "What is your weakness?" question in job interviews.

Answering "What is your weakness?" in a job interview can be challenging, as it is a common trick question. The interviewer is essentially asking, "Is there a reason we shouldn't hire you?". The key to responding effectively is to choose a weakness that you are actively working on and to frame it in a way that demonstrates your ability to improve and overcome challenges.

A strong example could be: "I have very high standards, and sometimes this can lead to frustration when others don't meet those standards. However, I've learned that effective communication can help manage these expectations and lead to better team collaboration". This answer shows self-awareness, honesty, and a proactive approach to personal growth.

When preparing your answer, avoid clichéd weaknesses that are thinly veiled strengths, such as "I'm a perfectionist". Instead, focus on a genuine area for improvement that is not critical to the job you're applying for. It's also important to highlight the steps you are taking to address this weakness, showing that you are committed to personal and professional development.

By carefully selecting a weakness and explaining how you are working to overcome it, you can turn this tricky question into an opportunity to showcase your self-awareness and dedication to improvement. This approach will leave a positive impression on your interviewer and demonstrate your suitability for the role.