Master The Art of Interview: Turning Weaknesses into Strengths

Interviews are often, if not always, a stressful experience for both the interviewer and the interviewee. Asking the right questions and saying the right things are the keys to a successful interview. But, it may not always be easy to understand how to put your best foot forward.

One of the most common questions interviewers use to assess the candidates is the one about your weaknesses and strengths. It allows the interviewer insight into candidates’ self-awareness, and how well they know themselves.

While it may feel like a tricky question, it’s anything but. Some candidates rely on the good old “I’m a perfectionist”, but it feels insincere. Knowing how to talk about your weaknesses, and how to present them as strengths instead of hiding them, can be the reason why you get the job.

So let’s see how you can turn those weaknesses into strengths for the interview.

How to prepare for the Weaknesses and Strengths interview question?

If this question is causing you headaches, you should know there are steps you can take to prepare for it. Let’s go through them in detail.

Step 1: Identifying your weakness for a job interview

For some people, introspection comes easy. Others don’t overthink it, but to answer this question accurately and honestly, understanding yourself is the key. For example, if you are an extrovert and you thrive when you talk to people you should reconsider applying for a job as a data analyst. There, you’ll likely be stuck in a cubicle for a large part of your day. If that clashes with your extroverted personality, the job might not be the best one for you.

A good starting point to understanding yourself is one of the many personality tests available online. Some of these tests, including Myers-Briggs, can give you a solid insight into your personality traits. While you may disagree with the results, it will give you relevant information you can use to assess where you are and where you can be.

If you’re not big on tests, think of previous experiences and jobs you’ve worked in. Take note of any significant successes, and obstacles you’ve overcome. Don’t forget to note if you had strong feelings about a particular task in the past, as these can help you understand yourself better.

Step 2: Understand which weaknesses you have trouble controlling

Some people may be aware of their weaknesses, and work on improving them. But, others may not be. Ask yourself, and your family and friends, whether you have some traits that frustrate or annoy them. By involving your former coworkers or friends in the process, you’ll also gain valuable insight about yourself you might not be privy to on your own.

You might also consult with some examples of weaknesses and see if any apply to you. Once you know your weaknesses, you’ll have more control over them.

You might have a hard time organizing your time, or your thoughts. Attention to detail might not be your strongest suit. Or you might have a difficult time connecting with people or lack leadership skills to navigate some situations.

Step 3: Try to overcome your weaknesses and figure out workarounds

You cannot turn weaknesses into strengths by brute willpower. Rather, you have to have methods and ways to improve them. For example, if you have a hard time organizing, try to find out which calendars, task lists, and organization tools might work best for you.

You should also consider taking relevant classes, or create a step-by-step plan on how to improve those aspects.

Step 4: Accept your weaknesses that are hidden strengths

Not all weaknesses are bad. Some are strengths on their own if applied to the right context.

An anxious person who is afraid to take charge is also a person who has an eye for detail. They will likely double-check everything to ensure that everything is right before they submit their work.

People who may lack people skills and are goal-oriented will help drive the progress further. While it may be difficult to connect with them, it's a crucial trait to have under tight deadlines where there’s no room for being nice and polite.

While it’s good to have plans to improve your weaknesses, some are already a blessing in disguise. But, it’s important to understand how your weaknesses can help your new company, by understanding how it helped you in the past.

How to address this question in an interview?

Now that you know what are some of your weaknesses, this question shouldn’t be as difficult to approach. But, it’s also important to phrase your answer right, so here are a few tips to help you do so.

1. Focus on the work-related weaknesses

Even though you know you’re not the best driver in the world, unless the position is the one of a driver, it might be better to skip this weakness in the job interview. Focus your weaknesses on skills and traits that are beneficial to the job you are applying for.

2. Couple the weakness with your plan to improve it

Stating that your biggest weakness is that you are not an organized person will not help you in an interview. But, if you say that you are working to learn how to organize yourself better can be helpful in an interview. Put a strong focus on the fact that you are aware of your weakness, and explain in more detail how you are working to improve it.

3. Avoid the humble brag

While it is often recommended to interviewees to use this opportunity to brag about themselves, this is hardly the truth. Saying things like “I can’t stop working”, or “I have a thirst for knowledge”, may be true, but it will not help you in an interview. Interviewers consider this to be a red flag. Being honest and realistic about your weaknesses and showing them you are looking to improve is a better course of action.

4. Some things you should skip talking about

Some weaknesses are better left unsaid in an interview. Telling your future employer that you are a technophobe, or that you don’t take orders well might not be a good idea. Even if you do like to skip from task to task, saying “I never finish my projects” might not be a good idea.

5. Pair honesty with strategy

Keep in mind that the interviewers have likely heard it all, from humble brag to a botched answer. If you are honest and open about your weaknesses, and present how you’re working on improving is better than stressing over the “right answer”.

What are some examples of good weaknesses in an interview?

If you are unable to find the weaknesses you can turn into strengths for your job interview, here are some examples to help you out.

1. “I have a hard time letting go of projects.”

This is a more appropriate alternative to “I am a perfectionist.” Not being able to let go of the projects you are working on because you feel you can improve them last minute is a good trait. But, it can also affect deadlines and timelines and put extra strain on your team.

Like with other weaknesses, try to pair it with an explanation of how you’re planning to improve on it. For example, you might say that you limit yourself to the number of revisions you are allowed to make.

2. “I sometimes lack confidence”

Confidence is often seen as a key trait in professional settings. But, admitting to an occasional lack of confidence shows self-awareness and honesty. Still, a lack of confidence may lead to hesitation in decision-making or reluctance to voice opinions.

Some of the ways you can address this include seeking feedback, keeping a document of impact, and seeing a therapist. You may also decide to engage in activities that boost confidence or use some of the many tips and tricks to improve it.

3. “I sometimes have difficulty working with certain personalities.”

Being a team player is the key to work success. But, you may not be a team player, or you might prefer having a limited set of people you interact with at work. Acknowledging these challenges in the interview shows awareness of the importance of teamwork.

It is normal to feel unpleasant around personalities that have certain traits that don't work well with yours. But, addressing this in an interview, and showing that you are open to finding a middle ground with everyone will go a long way.

Mastering the interview question - a few key points to remember

When preparing for a job interview, keep in mind that there are two sides to every coin. Essentially, with a bit of practice, you can turn every weakness into strength.

If you have to rely on one of the examples, you should practice it a bit. Practice is the key, as you want it to sound natural and honest.

Honesty and openness are the key. Still, you should do your best to frame your shortcomings positively and show interest and a plan for improving them. By mastering the weaknesses question, you have a greater chance of impressing the interviewer. Your answer may also help you stand out in the crowd of applicants.

FAQ:

What is your best weakness answer?

When answering the "What is your greatest weakness?", acknowledge a genuine area for improvement. Make sure to emphasize your proactive approach to addressing it. For instance, you might mention a tendency to get overly invested in projects. But, explain how you've learned to set boundaries and prioritize tasks. This demonstrates self-awareness and willingness to grow.

How to answer the "Why should we hire you?" question?

When answering "Why should we hire you?", focus on showcasing your relevant skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the role. Highlight how you align with the job requirements. Try to demonstrate your potential impact, and express your desire to contribute to the company's future.

How to answer the "How do you handle stress?" question?

Many job positions need you to work well under pressure. To impress your interviewer, highlight your ability to stay organized and prioritize tasks. Emphasize being able to maintain a calm and composed demeanor under pressure. Mention any techniques you use, such as mindfulness, time management, or seeking support from colleagues.