Can Your Good Weaknesses To Say In An Interview Actually Be Your Secret Weapon In An Interview
Written by
James Miller, Career Coach
The dreaded interview question: "What are your weaknesses?" It's a moment that makes many candidates freeze up, worried they'll reveal too much or sound insincere. But what if identifying and articulating good weaknesses to say in an interview isn't a trap, but an opportunity? Mastering how to discuss your good weaknesses to say in an interview can demonstrate self-awareness, honesty, and a commitment to growth – qualities highly valued in job interviews, college applications, and even crucial sales conversations. This isn't about listing fatal flaws, but about strategically choosing areas for improvement that showcase your potential.
Why Do Interviewers Ask About good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Interviewers aren't trying to catch you out when they ask about your good weaknesses to say in an interview. Their primary goal is to assess your level of self-awareness [1][4]. Can you honestly reflect on areas where you need to grow? Do you understand your own limitations and how they might impact your work or studies?
Beyond self-awareness, the question gauges your humility and your growth mindset [1]. Are you someone who is resistant to feedback, or do you actively seek ways to improve? Your ability to discuss good weaknesses to say in an interview reveals your potential for development and how you handle challenges. It shows you're coachable and willing to learn from mistakes, essential traits in any dynamic environment. This applies whether you're interviewing for a job, seeking admission to college, or building trust in a sales scenario.
How Do You Choose good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Selecting the right response when asked about good weaknesses to say in an interview is crucial. The key is to strike a balance: be honest, but strategic [1][3]. Avoid clichés that sound rehearsed or insincere [1]. More importantly, do not choose a weakness that is a core requirement for the role or opportunity you're pursuing [1][3][4]. For example, admitting you struggle with public speaking probably isn't a good weakness to say in an interview for a training facilitator position.
Instead, focus on identifying genuine areas for improvement that are manageable and that you are actively working on. Reflect on past performance reviews, feedback from colleagues or mentors, or even self-observation in challenging situations [4]. Look for traits that are common challenges but show you are human and committed to development. The best good weaknesses to say in an interview are ones you can discuss openly while highlighting your efforts to overcome them.
What Are Some Examples of good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Finding relevant and authentic examples is key when preparing your good weaknesses to say in an interview. Here are a few commonly accepted areas for improvement that can be framed effectively:
Perfectionism: While sometimes seen as a positive, excessive perfectionism can lead to getting bogged down in details and missing deadlines. This can be a good weakness to say in an interview if you pair it with how you're learning to set realistic standards or use tools to manage scope [1].
Difficulty Delegating: Some individuals prefer to do everything themselves to ensure it's done "right." This is a good weakness to say in an interview if you explain how you're actively working on building trust in your team and empowering others, understanding that delegation is essential for team success [1].
Trouble Saying "No": Taking on too many tasks can lead to burnout or decreased quality. Framing this as a good weakness to say in an interview involves discussing how you're improving your prioritization skills and learning to manage commitments effectively, perhaps using task management systems [2].
Impatience: Getting frustrated when projects or processes move slowly is common. As a good weakness to say in an interview, you can discuss how you're channeling this energy into proactive communication, setting clearer expectations, or finding ways to support others to meet deadlines [2].
Public Speaking Shyness: Many people are uncomfortable presenting to groups. This can be a good weakness to say in an interview if the role doesn't heavily rely on public speaking, and you can mention specific steps you're taking to improve, such as taking a course or joining a relevant group [3].
For each example, the power comes from showing you are aware of the weakness and actively doing something about it.
How Do You Present good weaknesses to say in an Interview for Impact?
Simply stating a weakness isn't enough; the magic is in the framing. The most effective way to present your good weaknesses to say in an interview is using the "weakness + solution" formula [1][2][4]. This structure demonstrates that you see the weakness not as a permanent flaw, but as an opportunity for growth.
Start by stating the weakness clearly and concisely. Then, immediately pivot to the steps you are taking to address it. Providing a brief, concrete example of a situation where you applied these steps can make your answer even more compelling [1][4]. You can even use a simplified version of the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a time you worked on improving this weakness and the positive outcome [1][4]. The focus should be on the action you are taking and the results of your efforts to improve. This shifts the narrative from a negative trait to a positive story of development.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Discussing good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Even with good intentions, it's easy to stumble when discussing good weaknesses to say in an interview. Being aware of common pitfalls can help you navigate this question successfully.
One major mistake is selecting a weakness that is absolutely critical to performing the job or succeeding in the program [1][3][4]. This can immediately disqualify you. Another pitfall is giving a cliché answer like "I'm a perfectionist" or "I work too hard" without providing genuine context or demonstrating real effort towards improvement [1]. These answers often come across as insincere or like disguised strengths.
Saying you have no weaknesses (indicates a serious lack of self-awareness).
Focusing solely on the negative aspect without showing how you are working to overcome it [1][2][4].
Blaming others for your weakness.
Choosing a personal, irrelevant weakness (e.g., "I'm terrible at cooking"). Stick to professional or academic contexts [4].
Other mistakes include:
Your response about good weaknesses to say in an interview should feel authentic and demonstrate genuine reflection, not just a canned answer.
How Do You Tailor Your good weaknesses to say in an Interview Answer for Different Contexts?
The best good weaknesses to say in an interview will vary slightly depending on the context – a job interview, a college interview, or even a sales call.
Job Interviews: Focus on professional skills, teamwork, communication, or adaptability. Choose a weakness that is relevant to the workplace but not detrimental to the specific role. For example, difficulty with presenting might be acceptable for a backend developer role but not for a client-facing position [4].
College Interviews: Consider academic habits, time management, study skills, or participation in group projects. A weakness like procrastination (and how you're improving with scheduling) or struggling to ask for help could be appropriate, showing humility and a willingness to learn in an academic setting.
Sales Calls/Professional Conversations: While less common to be asked directly, understanding your own "good weaknesses" in communication (e.g., impatience, difficulty reading non-verbal cues, needing to improve listening skills) can help you prepare and perform better. You might not state it explicitly, but self-awareness allows you to adjust your approach. If asked in a consultative setting, focusing on improving a skill like detailed follow-up or managing expectations could be relevant.
Always consider what traits are valued in the specific situation and frame your good weaknesses to say in an interview accordingly, emphasizing your efforts toward improvement [4].
What Are Actionable Tips for Preparing Your good weaknesses to say in an Interview Response?
Preparing your answer about good weaknesses to say in an interview doesn't have to be daunting. Here are some practical steps:
Self-Reflect Honestly: Think about times you've struggled or received constructive criticism. What are genuine areas where you could improve? Consider feedback from peers, managers, or teachers [4].
Identify a Manageable Weakness: Choose something real that you can discuss comfortably and that isn't a core requirement of the role [1][3].
Define Your Improvement Plan: What specific steps are you taking to address this weakness? Learning a new skill, practicing a behavior, using a tool, or seeking mentorship are all valid approaches [1][2][4].
Structure Your Answer: Use the "weakness + solution" approach [1][2][4]. Consider structuring it using the STAR method for clarity and impact [1][4]. Keep it concise (1-2 minutes).
Practice Out Loud: Rehearse your response until it feels natural and confident, not robotic. Practice helps you refine your wording and delivery [1][2][4].
Tailor and Research: Ensure your chosen weakness and example are appropriate for the specific interview or context and the values of the organization [4].
How Can Verve AI Copilot Help You With good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Preparing to discuss good weaknesses to say in an interview can be challenging, but Verve AI Interview Copilot is designed to help you navigate this and other tough questions. The Verve AI Interview Copilot can provide tailored practice sessions, asking you common and behavioral questions, including those about good weaknesses to say in an interview. It can analyze your responses, offering feedback on content, structure, and delivery. By practicing with Verve AI Interview Copilot, you can refine your message, ensure you're presenting good weaknesses to say in an interview effectively, and build confidence before the real conversation. Learn more at https://vervecopilot.com.
What Are the Most Common Questions About good weaknesses to say in an Interview?
Q: Is it okay to say I have no weaknesses?
A: No, this response shows a lack of self-awareness and can signal arrogance [1][4]. Everyone has areas for growth.
Q: Should I mention a skill gap, like not knowing a specific software?
A: Yes, if it's not a required skill and you mention you are learning it or are eager to learn it quickly [1].
Q: How specific should my answer about good weaknesses to say in an interview be?
A: Be specific enough to sound genuine (e.g., "sometimes struggle with strict prioritization") but avoid overly negative personal details.
Q: Can I use a personal weakness?
A: It's generally better to keep it professional or related to the context (academic, professional skills). Avoid personal traits unrelated to performance [4].
Q: How long should my answer be?
A: Keep it concise, typically 1-2 minutes. Clearly state the weakness and focus on the steps you're taking to improve.
Q: What if my weakness is actually a requirement of the job?
A: Choose a different weakness. Do not highlight a deficiency in a core required skill [1][3].
Discussing your good weaknesses to say in an interview is more about showcasing your self-awareness, integrity, and potential than it is about admitting failure [1][2][4]. By choosing your words strategically, focusing on growth, and practicing your delivery, you can turn this seemingly difficult question into a powerful demonstration of your readiness for the next step. Be honest, be strategic, and highlight your commitment to continuous improvement.
