Unfortunately, both strategies to tackling the greatest interview question leave the hiring manager dissatisfied. First of all, interviewers can tell when you're lying. And second, the reason they asked that question was to get some honest insight into who you are and how you deal with difficulties. Your fake answer does nothing to position you as a great candidate.
The key to a winning response strategy is in understanding why the hiring manager asks about your weaknesses. There are typically two big reasons behind it.
Reason number one is to see whether or not you have enough self-awareness and insight to acknowledge that you have something you need to work on. Reason number two is to determine if you are proactive and resilient enough to work on getting better. If you understand those two points and are able to answer the question honestly and thoughtfully, what you say next has the potential to lift you above other candidates and get you the job offer.
It does not just tell the interviewer about my weakness — it tells a story. I brought the hiring manager along with me on a journey that had an emotional dip and a recovery. Our brains are wired to love stories, so craft a story to illustrate your point for maximum impact.
That does not mean blurting out the first thing that comes to mind, but rather giving it some thought and choosing something real. By all means, be strategic – after all, your goal is to position yourself as a great candidate. However, begin with an honest self-assessment.
I cannot guarantee that you will get this one in your next interview, but it is one that can be difficult to answer on the spot. So, don’t put yourself on the spot. You have been warned – think through your response in advance.
So, be honest, be ready and work on fixing it – and you will be acing this tough question in no time!
Finding yourself speechless when you encounter questions like this? Working with an expert interview coach can help! Reach out to our sister site, TopInterview, today to learn more.