One of the most difficult parts of the interview for many job candidates is when the interviewer asks the job candidate to discuss their weaknesses. It is far easier and oftentimes a lot simpler to discuss strengths; but delving into shortcomings can offer the job candidate an opportunity to allay employer worries and fears about a job candidate’s perceived flaws. Because there is no doubt about it, most employers are able to perceive a candidate’s shortcomings even if the candidate does their best to hide them. So how should a job candidate approach the discussion of their weaknesses during an interview? Below are few tips:
Assess where you may fall short in your technical abilities or knowledge. Does the job require some type of skills that you may lack? If so, think about how you might compensate for this shortcoming. Can you take a class? Can you learn while on the job? Do you have other skills that are comparable? When discussing any technical/knowledge shortcoming with an employer make sure you offer a solution that will make them confident about giving you the job.
Assess your professional experience. Does the job require a certain number of years of experience that you don’t have? If so, how can you compensate for this lack of experience? Or why is your current level of experience enough to get the job done? Maybe you have few years of experience but the experience you have is of “high value.” If so, make this clear so that the employer understands that this shortcoming will not in any way diminish you ability to do your job.
Assess your emotional/social skills in the workplace. Do you have trouble resolving conflict? Do you often bump heads with your superiors? Is it difficult to work on teams? Maybe you work too hard and burn out quickly. Whatever your flaw is in this area, address it honestly with the employer but also let them know how you are successfully dealing with these shortcomings.