To perform exceptionally well in an employment interview, the job candidate has to be prepared. In the series on Answers to 7 Common Interview Questions, here is a possible response to “What is your biggest weakness?” For today’s question, the interviewer is trying to determine how honest and self-aware a job seeker is. The hiring manager is also trying to identify any big red flags. The one response you don’t want to give is “I do not have any major weakness.” Now, having said that, this doesn’t mean you need to wear your heart on your sleeve, talking about every weakness that you have. Here is a possible response to the question, “What is your biggest weakness?”
“I am an introvert, so in large meetings, I tend to remain quiet, especially when more extroverted co-workers monopolize the conversation. A couple of coworkers, with whom I work closely, and trust their feedback, mentioned that when I do not speak up in meetings, not only does it make me look as if I never have anything worthwhile to say, but I deny others the opportunity to benefit from my ideas and insights. I had never really thought about it that way before. I have been seriously working on this weakness to become more comfortable speaking in front of large audiences. I recently offered to chair a committee to raise funds for United Way. And when I am in other meetings, before the chair moves on to another topic on the agenda, I indicate that I have something to say. It still feels a little bit uncomfortable for me to step outside my comfort zone, but I feel better knowing that I am being heard.”
The above answer works because public speaking is one of the biggest fears that people have. In fact, it ranks above going to the dentist. You have stated your weakness, but you have also provided two ways that you are working on your greatest weakness. The hiring manager sees that you are very self-aware and honest. The response offered to the interview question, “What is your biggest weakness?” is only a guide, and therefore it is the job candidate’s responsibility to tweak the advice offered.
This article is contributed by Right Management, www.rightmanagement.sg, the global career experts within the ManpowerGroup.