Whats the best way to list your weaknesess in an interview?

Answer 1

In an interview it is usually best to state your weaknesses as something that could also be a strength. Something like "I'm kind of perfectionist" usually goes over well. It is a weakness, but it could also be looked at as a strength. You could try some obvious ones, like "I hate playing politics," but whether it goes over well or not will completely depend on the person who is interviewing you. Everyone has weaknesses, so if you can't turn the question around as noted above, the best idea is to talk about a weakness and then talk about what you've done to improve. Maybe talk about how you had a hard time being open with people when you first entered the workplace, but that you took the time to learn about your co-workers and that working with other people became a lot easier... not that I am telling you what to say. Just offering an example of something that might be a weakness in a team-centric environment, and talking about how you are working on it.

Answer 2

There are many schools of thought on that. Some would say to take a strength and pretend it is a weakness (i.e. "I sometimes work too hard.")

While that has worked for some, it is becoming increasingly trite. You don't need to reiterate tired lines at a job interview, you just need to be likable and a good candidate for the position you're applying for.

What has worked for me in the past is to be honest, but do it in a charming way. I tell them a phobia of mine (i.e. "I'm terrified of bears, but as long as there are none by the copier I think I'll be okay.)

The only thing, with this approach, that I would stress is not to use sarcasm. Make them a part of the joke and they'll like you.

Never say that you're constantly late, or lazy, or that you have trouble respecting the authority of supervisors.

Other than that, just be yourself.

Mostly, just be confident and you should be fine.

Answer 3

Be honest, be fair, and explain what you do to help yourself overcome them.

I always refer to my last review or PDP and come up with some honest feed back on how you would aim to improve on the weakness highlighted. This will show that you have been made aware of the weakness yet you are willing to take the criticism on board and work to resolve the issue. Hope this helps.