This is one of the questions that make most of the candidates to twitch and squeeze themselves awkwardly. Learn how to handle this.

Some facts:

  1. 1. There is not a single person or creature on earth without weakness.
  2. The interviewer knows this and so do you, as a candidate.
  3. Let’s face it. The candidate cannot say “I have no weakness” as both would know this is a lie.

How to answer?

  1. Always prepare two of your weaknesses.
  2. Review the adverse effects. Translate these effects and paraphrase them to make them sound positive. A few examples are given below.
  3. Read it aloud or preferably rehearse this with a friend to gain confidence.
  4. Keep rephrasing and practicing again and again until you have utmost confidence in uttering it confidently and candidly

Highlight only one weakness on a positive tone, confidently.

  • “Workaholic” can be positively put as “Works hard; willing to work extra hours”
  • “Perfectionist” becomes “Detail oriented; sets high standards at work”
  • “Competitive” becomes “Sets goals; strives to excel; overcomes obstacles; go-getter”
  • “Extrovert; Tries to befriend everyone” becomes “Team player; has good interpersonal skills; warm, approachable”
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Some funny versions which can be used are as follows:

  • “Introvert” becomes “Concentrates on job in hand; highly focused”
  • “Nagging follow-up” becomes “Pursuing with perseverance”
  • “Working slow” becomes “Eye for Detail” or “Pursuit for Excellence”
  • “Moving from one field to another field” becomes “Quick Learner” or “Highly Flexible”
  • “Comes late and leaves early” becomes “Excellent Time Management” or “Good Delegator”