How to answer "What are your weaknesses?"

One of the trickiest questions many candidates face is, "What are your weaknesses?" Here's a concise guide, through a business expert's lens, on how to approach this question effectively.

**1. Understand the Purpose Behind the Question**

Firstly, interviewers don't ask about weaknesses to trip you up. They're gauging your self-awareness, honesty, and ability to grow from challenges. Recognizing and addressing weaknesses is a sign of maturity and professional growth.

**2. Choose a Genuine Weakness**

Avoid clichés like "I'm too much of a perfectionist." Instead, select a real area of improvement. Remember, it should be a professional weakness relevant to the job, not a personal one.

**3. But Not a Deal-Breaker**

While honesty is appreciated, revealing a weakness that's a core requirement of the job might be a misstep. For instance, if you're applying for an accounting position, you wouldn't mention being bad with numbers.

**4. Frame It Positively**

The key is to present your weakness in a way that also highlights your proactive approach towards it. For example, "I used to find public speaking daunting. But I've taken several workshops recently, and I'm continually working on it."

**5. Focus on Growth and Learning**

Every weakness is a potential area for growth. Discuss the steps you're taking to overcome this shortcoming, whether it's attending training, reading books, or seeking mentorship.

**6. Practice Makes Perfect**

Rehearse your answer. You don't want to sound scripted, but being prepared ensures you communicate your point clearly and confidently.

**7. Remember: Everyone Has Weaknesses**

It's natural to feel vulnerable discussing flaws, especially in a high-stakes environment like an interview. But remember, everyone has areas for improvement – even the person interviewing you.

**Conclusion:**

Answering the "weaknesses" question can feel intimidating, but with the right approach, it's an opportunity to demonstrate introspection, resilience, and growth. Frame your answer positively and show that you view challenges as opportunities for professional development. After all, the goal isn't to prove you're perfect, but that you're human and committed to continuous learning.

In the Next article I will discuss some examples of weaknesses that you should try to answer with full confidence.