Articulating strengths & weaknesses in interviews - with examples

Job interviews often include questions about your strengths and weaknesses. Although it may seem easy to answer this question, generic answers can seem unoriginal and insincere. The watchword: stand out and stay honest. Let's look at some tips and examples of how to answer this common job interview question effectively, so as to leave a positive and sincere impression.

Describing your weaknesses

If you are going to talk about your weaknesses, it is essential to be authentic while avoiding sabotaging yourself. Don't avoid or deviate when the examiner asks you questions about your weaknesses. If talking about your weaknesses makes you uncomfortable, consider focusing on an area where you have already made progress.

1-    Reframe your weaknesses as challenges.

By replacing the term "weakness" with "challenge" in your response, you remove certain negative connotations and make shortcomings seem easier to correct. Challenges imply a temporary state that can be overcome.

2-    Choose skills that can be corrected.

Choose weaknesses that can be improved through training or commitment. Technical skills such as data analysis, presentation skills, or software expertise are generally learnable. However, avoid mentioning behavioral challenges that might be perceived as personality flaws.

3-    Avoid clichés.

Steer clear of overused examples like "perfectionism" or "being a workaholic." Also, avoid weaknesses that are merely strengths in disguise, such as "working too hard" or "researching too much."

4-    Choose challenges unrelated to core job responsibilities.

While your strengths should align with the job requirements, your weaknesses should not intersect with those crucial skills. You want to showcase strength where the job demands it.

Here are some examples of weaknesses:

self critical 

Uncomfortable with public speaking

Uncomfortable with delegating tasks

Risk-averse

Competitive 

Sensitive/emotional

Extreme introversion or extroversion

Limited experience in a particular skill or software

Describing your strengths

Strengths are not just about your abilities, but also about how these skills match the company's needs. It is important to note that highlighting your strengths does not imply arrogance, but rather a genuine acknowledgment of your capabilities and the value you can bring to the role.

1-    Focus on the strengths listed in the job description.

Rather than guessing at the qualities the employer is looking for, look for the attributes listed in the "preferred qualifications" or "required skills" section of the job description. This will help you tailor your response to the employer's expectations.

2-    Reframe your skills to make them more specific.

Instead of using generic terms, make your answer more descriptive. For example: Communication skills can be reworded as public speaking and presentation skills. People skills can be defined as team management skills.

3-    Structure your answer effectively.

When describing a strength, incorporate these four elements into your answer: First mention the strength itself, followed with a concrete example to illustrate your skill. Discuss how this strength impact your work and performance. Finally express your enthusiasm for using it in the role.

Here are some examples of strengths:

Entrepreneurial mindset

Keen attention to detail

Ability to work well in teams

Innovative and creative thinking

Effective problem-solving skills

Flexibility in adapting to change

Patience in challenging situations

Leadership capabilities

Expertise in a specific skill or software

Authenticity is vital when it comes to discussing strengths and weaknesses. Choose strengths that are relevant to the role, give authentic examples and leave a positive impression. Address weaknesses by focusing on growth and transformation, while showing that you are self-aware and dedicated to personal development. 

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Good luck in your future interviews!