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In an interview, you have to be prepared for a barrage of tough questions. Doing pre-interview research is necessary for any position, and you never want to be surprised by a question. The most dreaded one is usually related to your weaknesses. We know it can be intimidating, but we’re here to help you answer it deftly to land the perfect position.

Rookie Mistakes

  • Naming a skill essential to the job
  • Saying that you have no weaknesses
  • Describing something you can’t improve upon
  • Giving a weak answer in an attempt to make yourself look good

Communicating your weakness effectively is important. You want to be honest, but not too honest. Don’t paint yourself in a negative light, especially if it makes you seem like a bad hire. If a hiring manager is asking about your greatest weakness, it’s because they want to know you have self-awareness. Don’t dodge the question: address it with these aspects in mind.

Share Your Weakness

What you want to do is share one weakness that accurately depicts your work ethic. This question isn’t about making yourself look good: it’s about showing you know yourself and can admit to your shortcomings. Avoid any answers like, “I work too hard” or, “I care too much”. Hiring managers have heard these lines before. Personalize your answer by describing one of your professional shortcomings.

Share What You’ve Learned

Quickly after you’ve shared your weakness, discuss the lessons you’ve learned and mistakes you’ve made. If your weakness is time management, talk about a time you struggled to complete a project on time. Difficulty working in teams? Describe when you’ve tried to work with others effectively. Emphasizing your flaw as an experience to grow will show your potential as the right candidate for the job.

Share How You Are Improving

Most importantly, think of getting this question as a positive opportunity. Your downfalls in the past will make you stronger in the future, so don’t be afraid to talk about your work challenges. To pivot and direct this question in a more positive manner, discuss how you’ve improved in this area. If your weakness is not taking initiative, talk about how you’ve been in the background but are now looking to take on a new project. Give tangible examples of your progress, and you’ll impress any potential employer.

The Bottom Line

In your interview, it’s important to stay calm and focused. Interviews can be intimidating and challenging, but it’s all about finding the right fit and showing your best self. Practicing your responses never goes out of style, and being prepared with research on the role and the company will help you put your best foot forward.

Work With a Top Staffing Agency in Chicago IL

To take your job search to the next level, contact the professionals at Davis Staffing. Working with a temporary staffing firm will help you take advantage of every resource and find the right fit fast. As a top Chicago staffing agency, Davis Staffing has a huge volume of postings and can provide you with new and exciting opportunities. Contact us today!

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