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10 Examples of Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews
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Learn how to answer the question, “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” in a job interview.
It is very common for hiring managers to ask about your strengths and weaknesses during a job interview. Like any question, your response holds weight. An interview’s purpose is to evaluate your ability to get the job done. Think of this as an opportunity to highlight your positive qualities and demonstrate a growth mindset.
Everybody has both strengths and weaknesses. Answering this question gives you the opportunity to provide a contextual example of how you use your strengths to shine and how you work to improve any weaknesses that are relevant to the role.
This article explains why interviewers ask this question, lists examples of strengths and weaknesses, and offers suggestions to help you answer wisely.
Why interviewers ask about strengths and weaknesses
This common question is a helpful tool for interviewers to understand your personality and working style. When hiring managers ask about your strengths and weaknesses, they evaluate a few things:
How you conduct a self-assessment
Whether you are aware of your positive traits and how you use them in the workplace
Whether you can address your weaknesses and how you’ve worked to improve them
How your skills and traits will balance out those of current team members
Read more: 15 Insightful Questions to Ask a Hiring Manager During Your Next Interview
Strategies for talking about strengths
It may be helpful to first reflect on this question from the hiring manager’s perspective. What qualities or competencies are they looking for in this specific role? Consider how you can leverage your strengths to align with a key competency of the job description.
For your strengths, be confident. Don't be afraid to brag a little. This is your chance to highlight what makes you such a great fit for the job. Mention one or two top strengths, and provide examples of how you’ve used them in the workplace. If you can back this up with measurable results, even better. Reflect on these two questions as you formulate your answer:
Why are you good at X?
How does X help you at work?
Here is a sample structure for a response:
I am [STRENGTH]. I learned this through [HOW YOU DEVELOPED STRENGTH], and this allowed me to [IMPACT of STRENGTH] at my current/previous job/experience.
Read more: Interviewing Skills to Benefit Your Career
When you approach this question, think about the positive qualities you embody and the skills you possess that serve you well in the workplace. Here is a list of strengths to consider:
Entrepreneurial
Detail-oriented
Collaborative
Creative
Empathetic
Passionate
Problem solver
Flexible
Patient
Honest
Dedicated
Positive
Able to lead
Expert in a particular skill or software
Read more: What Are Interpersonal Skills? And How to Strengthen Them
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Sample responses to “What are your strengths?”
These examples can give you an idea of the type of structured response. They demonstrate that you are confident of this strength and that you will use it to succeed in this specific role.
1. Collaborative
I am very collaborative. I’ve always enjoyed working on teams and it is one of my strongest attributes. In my previous job as a marketing research analyst, I led a project that involved diverse stakeholders, focus groups, and extensive field research, which taught me about my ability to inspire others in stressful situations. The client used our insights to create a sustainable (both environmentally and financially) product.
2. Technical know-how
I love staying up-to-date with trends in the tech industry. From my current role, I know the ins and outs of SAP very well, so I can anticipate problems before they arise. I get excited tinkering around with gadgets in my personal life, and this trait has come in handy in the workplace when I get to know a piece of software or program intimately.
3. Detail-oriented
As a content creator, I love brainstorming new approaches to reach our consumers. But I am most known for my attention to detail. I care a lot about word choice because I believe that precise language can transform a piece from good to great (and I never miss a deadline). My blogs and articles consistently perform well and reach the top of Google searches.
4. Positive attitude
My positive attitude is definitely one of my strengths. I have been a restaurant server, a tutor, and a health aide in the past decade, all jobs that require plenty of energy and endurance. I can view a situation from multiple perspectives and empathize with my customers, students, and patients to understand their needs at any given time.
5. Solving problems
I am a solutions-oriented person and a quick learner. In my role as an electrical engineer, I learned to perform well under pressure when designing equipment because our team would not be able to win a contract unless we produced the blueprints quickly, with as few resources as possible. In these circumstances, I am not afraid to ask questions to figure out the challenge. I do extensive research for every client, so I can be extra prepared.
Strategies for talking about weaknesses
We all have weaknesses—that's just a part of being human. But your capacity to recognize a weakness and work toward improvement can actually be a strength. The key to talking about your weaknesses is to pair self-awareness with an action and a result:
What's the weakness?
What have you been doing to improve?
How has that improvement had a positive impact on your work?
Your interviewer may approach this question in different ways, so you’ll want to be prepared for the possibilities. Variations might include:
•What would your current manager/colleagues say is your biggest weakness?
•If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
•How do you bounce back from mistakes?
•What areas in your career do you feel you could improve?
Explaining that you are aware of a particular weakness and have taken steps to improve is a sign of maturity and drive that is attractive to employers. Here is a sample structure for a response:
I used to have trouble with [WEAKNESS]. I've been working to address this by [ACTION] and I realized I was improving because [IMPACT].
When preparing to discuss your weaknesses, choose one that gives you the chance to demonstrate growth and enthusiasm for learning. Here are some weaknesses that you might select from for your response:
Self-critical
Insecure
Disorganized
Prone to procrastination
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
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Sample responses to “What are your weaknesses?”
It's normal to feel uncomfortable with the prospect of airing your weaknesses to a potential employer. But remember, this is an opportunity to showcase your ability to honestly assess your performance, respond to feedback in a positive way, and continually improve—essential traits in almost any role.
The following examples can help you formulate your response.
1. Self-criticism
I can be quite critical of myself, which can lead to negative self-talk and eventual burnout. I've found that I can avoid this by recording my goals, objectives, and key results and setting aside time to celebrate milestones and achievements, big and small. This not only helps me focus on how I'm benefiting the team, but it also has also helped me get better at prioritizing my most impactful tasks.
2. Fear of public speaking
I am a naturally shy person. Since I was a kid, I have always felt nervous presenting in front of the class and that translated into the workplace. A few years ago, I led a big project and was asked to present it to board members. I was so nervous, but I realized I had to overcome this fear. I signed up for Toastmasters as a way to practice public speaking. Not only did this help get me through that first presentation, but it also helped me feel more confident as a leader. Now I'm helping my own team build presentation skills.
3. Procrastination
Procrastination has long been a bad habit of mine. I think it stems from a fear of failure, to be honest. In my last job as a real estate agent, keeping up with appointments and critical paperwork was essential to success. I started using Google calendar and apps like Trello to manage my time better. Crossing things off my to-do list makes me feel accomplished, and I've learned to tackle harder tasks early in the day when I'm feeling refreshed and less likely to put them off.
4. Issues with delegating tasks
I'm a bit of a perfectionist, so I sometimes struggle to delegate tasks to my teammates. This has led to taking on too much. As a manager, I've tried to be intentional about recognizing the strengths of those on my team and delegating tasks that match those strengths. It was hard at first, but I've seen that by communicating clear expectations and trusting my team, they rise to the occasion and I'm able to manage projects more efficiently.
5. Lack of experience with skill or software
I haven't had as much experience with Python as I'd like. When I decided to make a shift into data analytics, I knew I'd need to use a statistical programming language to perform efficient analysis. I signed up for a Python for Everybody course, and I've found I really love it. I'm excited to start applying the techniques I'm learning to help make my workflow more efficient.
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FAQs
What is your strength and weaknesses best answer? ›
My strength is, I am a quick learner, a hard-working and active person. My weakness is I am not felling good until I completed my work on time. My strengths are I'm self-motivated, Hard-working, a quick learner and I am a good team player. My weakness is I'm an overthinker and kind-hearted person.
What are your weaknesses Best interview answer? ›Answer “what is your greatest weakness” by choosing a skill that is not essential to the job you're applying to and by stressing exactly how you're practically addressing your weakness. Some skills that you can use as weaknesses include impatience, multitasking, self-criticism, and procrastination.
What are 5 examples of weaknesses? ›- Self-criticism. I can be quite critical of myself, which can lead to negative self-talk and eventual burnout. ...
- Fear of public speaking. I am a naturally shy person. ...
- Procrastination. ...
- Issues with delegating tasks. ...
- Lack of experience with skill or software.
Strengths include knowledge, attributes, skills, and talents. Weaknesses are just the opposite. Weaknesses are defined as character traits or skills that are considered negative or not as well developed. Weaknesses include blind spots, poorly developed skills, or problematic personal behaviors.
What are 3 examples of weaknesses? ›- Self-criticism.
- Shyness.
- Lack of knowledge of particular software.
- Public speaking.
- Taking criticism.
- Lack of experience.
- Inability to delegate.
- Lack of confidence.
- Lack of Patience.
- Lack of Organization.
- Trouble with Delegation.
- Timidity.
- Lack of Tactfulness.
- Fear of Public Speaking.
- Weak Data Analysis Skills.
- Indecisiveness.
List of Example Weaknesses: Too self-critical. Too critical of other people's work. Difficulty delegating tasks.
What are the 10 most common interview questions and answers? ›- Tell me about yourself.
- Walk me through your resume.
- How did you hear about this position?
- Why do you want to work at this company?
- Why do you want this job?
- Why should we hire you?
- What can you bring to the company?
- What are your greatest strengths?
Thanks to my solid background and work in previous projects, I'm confident, but I have certain analytical and people skills that'll prove beneficial in tackling any task you throw at me. I'm a strong team player and a self-motivated one-person unit, and I'm a fast learner and always eager to improve.
Why should we hire you answers? ›For starters, I have all the skills and experience listed in the job description, and I'm confident that I can make an immediate impact on your company. It's not just my background in leading successful projects for Fortune 500 companies, but also my passion for the industry that drives me to succeed.
How do you answer what areas need improvement examples? ›
Instead of focusing on your weaknesses, talk about something you can do well or averagely but still desire to become even better. There are various examples of areas that need improvement in a performance review; it could be communication, problem-solving, or time management.
What are good weaknesses to list? ›- Inexperience with specific software or a non-essential skill.
- Tendency to take on too much responsibility.
- Nervousness about public speaking.
- Hesitancy about delegating tasks.
- Discomfort taking big risks.
- Impatience with bureaucracies.
- 8 Fire.
- 7 Bug.
- 6 Ground.
- 5 Flying.
- 4 Fighting.
- 3 Ice.
- 2 Rock.
- 1 Grass.
1 Human pride is human weakness. 2 I have got over my weakness and fatigue. 3 My weakness is that I care too much. 4 The legislation has a fundamental weakness.
Can you list your strengths and weaknesses? ›"My strength is my flexibility to handle change. As customer service manager at my last job, I was able to turn around a negative working environment and develop a very supportive team. As far as weaknesses, I feel that my management skills could be stronger, and I am constantly working to improve them."
What are strengths at work? ›What are Employee Strengths? Employee strengths are the unique skills, abilities, and qualities that each individual brings to the workplace. These strengths can vary greatly from person to person and can include everything from excellent communication skills to a knack for problem-solving.
What are some of your strengths explain with short example? ›For example, you could say: “My greatest strength is attention to detail. I've always been detail-oriented in my work, and it's something I enjoy. I saw on your job description that this role involves a lot of detail-oriented work, which is one reason I applied.”
What are fake weaknesses for interviews? ›Fake weaknesses
“I work so hard I get overloaded.” “I have very high standards so I have a hard time delegating.” “I get very competitive about my work.” “I'm a perfectionist.”
Is Overthinking a Weakness? Overthinking can be viewed as both a strength and a weakness; it is, therefore, not a strong answer to give when asked about your weaknesses at interview. What is this? In some respects, someone that overthinks can be perceived to be unsure of themselves and their decision-making.
How do you nail an interview? ›- Do your research.
- Prepare an elevator pitch.
- Study your resume.
- Study the job description.
- Use the STAR method.
- Create a strong first impression.
- Be prepared for small talk.
- Body language.
What are things weaknesses? ›
Weaknesses. Is very stubborn. Handicap: Ben is limited in his capacity to use normal, everyday appliances due to his sheer size, weight and strength or interact with normal objects. His powers are also implied to have robbed him of his sense of touch.
How to introduce yourself in interview? ›- Greet Your Interviewers. ...
- Let Your Interviewers Know About Your Educational Background. ...
- An Alternate Approach for Seasoned Professionals. ...
- A Line or Two on Your Passions and Hobbies. ...
- The Vital Closing Statement.
- What is your greatest weakness?
- Why should we hire you?
- What's something that you didn't like about your last job?
- Why do you want this job?
- How do you deal with conflict with a co-worker?
- Here's an answer for you.
- Can you tell me a little about yourself?
- How did you hear about the position?
- What do you know about the company?
- What are your greatest professional strengths?
- What do you consider to be your weaknesses?
- What is your greatest professional achievement?
- Do you come to work just to work, or do you like to socialize along the way?
- What inspires you to work in this industry?
- Tell me about a time when you felt like a hero at work.
- Tell me about a time when a job or company felt like a bad fit for your personality and why.
"Enthusiastic, confident and friendly are three words I'd pick to describe myself. My enthusiasm for health care allows me to stay motivated at work and find importance in what I'm doing. My confidence helps me recognize my abilities while also knowing that there's always room to learn more.
What are the 23 most common interview questions and answers? ›- Can you tell me a little about yourself? ...
- Why are you interested in working here? ...
- What do you know about the company? ...
- Tell me about your previous experience. ...
- What are your strengths? ...
- What do you still need to work on? ...
- How would your previous employer describe you?
Core strengths generally fall into the three key areas of play, personal and work. But of these, the personal area is fundamental. It might include optimism, generosity, energy, empathy, or honesty. These comprise the background of every activity you undertake.
What is personal strength in resume? ›Resume strengths are things you're best at, traits or capabilities that make you excel at your work. Often they are talents that let you exceed expectations. Sometimes, they are even special abilities you may not be aware of, because they're part of who you are.
Why do you want this job? ›“I see this opportunity as a way to contribute to an exciting/forward-thinking/fast-moving company/industry, and I feel I can do so by/with my …” “I feel my skills are particularly well-suited to this position because …” “I believe I have the type of knowledge to succeed in this role and at the company because …”
Why am I good fit for this job? ›
For example, you might explain that you are particularly motivated, or that you are known for going above and beyond for your employers. A second way to answer is to emphasize your unique skills. If you have skills that make you a strong candidate (especially if not many people have those skills), mention these.
How do you handle stress and pressure? ›- Decide what you can do. Pinpoint which parts of the situation you have the power to change or influence for the better. ...
- Get support. Find someone to talk to about your situation. ...
- Care for yourself. Take especially good care of yourself when stress in your life is high.
How to (and how not to) answer the interview question 'What can you bring to the company?' The simple answer to this question is you : you bring all of your skills, qualities, values, interests, academic knowledge, internships and life experience to the company.
Can you work under pressure? ›The answer is Yes. We surely can work under stress but the cons in working under pressure or stress is that it hinders or blocks your creativity and ability to take smart decisions. So to overcome this situation, we should stay calm and breathe more.
Why do you think you are qualified for this position? ›When answering this interview question, focus on the skills and qualities you possess that most closely align with the needs and requirements of the role. For example: Hard or soft skills, like software expertise, or excellent customer service skills. Qualities like dedication, determination and perseverance.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? ›Sample answer template for “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” In five years, I see myself continuing to develop my skills and expertise in [list skills related to the role] in a [name future position] contributing to the growth and success of the organization.
What are 5 areas of improvement? ›Areas of improvement are skills, qualities or abilities that an employee could develop or enhance. Areas of improvement could include time management, delegation, organization, communication and engagement. Many of these skills and abilities are those that employees use daily at work.
What skills would you like to improve? ›- Communication.
- Computers.
- Mediation.
- Mentoring or coaching.
- Networking.
- Presenting or public speaking.
- Technical duties.
- Time management.
- "One of my career goals is to take a leadership position in my organization, so I want to improve my leadership skills. ...
- "I'm confident with my ability to write reports, but I have had little practice presenting them.
Is Overthinking a Weakness? Overthinking can be viewed as both a strength and a weakness; it is, therefore, not a strong answer to give when asked about your weaknesses at interview. What is this? In some respects, someone that overthinks can be perceived to be unsure of themselves and their decision-making.
How would you describe yourself? ›
Sample answers:
I am a hard-working and driven individual who isn't afraid to face a challenge. I'm passionate about my work and I know how to get the job done. I would describe myself as an open and honest person who doesn't believe in misleading other people and tries to be fair in everything I do.
- Enthusiasm.
- Trustworthiness.
- Creativity.
- Discipline.
- Patience.
- Respectfulness.
- Determination.
- Dedication.
Some people wrongly believe that, if it's possible to avoid crying, that's the best thing. Crying or feeling your emotions is definitely not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it's even been said that you have to be strong to cry.
Is being sensitive a weakness in work? ›Sensitivity is often seen as a sign of weakness in our culture, especially when a sensitive person experiences too much stress. We can easily become overwhelmed by too much sensory input, doing too much and ignoring our limits or just by being surrounded by too many people.
What are the top three reasons we should hire you? ›if you work hard to fit in with the team and the culture. if you will meet the deadline in the shortest amount of time possible. if you are always learning and growing as a professional. if you accept criticism and feedback positively and learn from your mistakes.
How can I introduce myself in interview? ›- Greet Your Interviewers. ...
- Let Your Interviewers Know About Your Educational Background. ...
- An Alternate Approach for Seasoned Professionals. ...
- A Line or Two on Your Passions and Hobbies. ...
- The Vital Closing Statement.
"Enthusiastic, confident and friendly are three words I'd pick to describe myself. My enthusiasm for health care allows me to stay motivated at work and find importance in what I'm doing. My confidence helps me recognize my abilities while also knowing that there's always room to learn more.
Can you describe yourself in one sentence? ›I am ambitious and driven.
I thrive on challenge and constantly set goals for myself, so I have something to strive towards. I am not comfortable with settling, and I am always looking for an opportunity to do better and achieve greatness. In my previous role, I was promoted three times in less than two years.”