"How to Answer “What’s Your Biggest Weakness?”"

The question everyone dreads. And most people answer badly.

Here’s how to handle it without sounding fake or sabotaging yourself.

Why They Ask

Interviewers want to see:

• Self-awareness
• Honesty
• Growth mindset
• How you handle uncomfortable questions

It’s not a trick to eliminate you – unless you answer terribly.

What NOT to Say

The humble brag:
“I’m a perfectionist” or “I work too hard”

Interviewers have heard these a thousand times. They’re eye-roll worthy.

Actually disqualifying weaknesses:
“I have trouble getting to work on time” or “I don’t work well with others”

Don’t give them a reason to reject you.

“I don’t have any weaknesses”:
Arrogant and oblivious. Everyone has weaknesses.

The Right Approach

Choose a real weakness that:

1. Won’t disqualify you from the role
2. You’ve actively worked on
3. Shows self-awareness

Then explain what you’ve done to address it.

Example Answers

Presentation skills:
“Public speaking used to make me very nervous. I’ve worked on it by volunteering to present in team meetings and taking a course. I’m much more comfortable now, though I still get nervous for big presentations. I just prepare more thoroughly.”

Delegation:
“Early in my career, I struggled to delegate – I thought I had to do everything myself. I’ve learned that’s not sustainable or good for the team. Now I consciously identify tasks others can handle and use it as a development opportunity for them.”

Detail vs big picture:
“I naturally focus on strategy and big picture, which means I sometimes miss small details. I’ve learned to build in review processes and partner with detail-oriented colleagues on execution-heavy work.”

Keep It Brief

Give your weakness, what you’ve done about it, and stop.

Don’t dwell on it or over-explain. One minute maximum.

Have More Than One Ready

Sometimes they ask for multiple weaknesses. Have 2-3 prepared so you’re not caught off guard.