What are interviewers really asking with the question: “what are your weaknesses?”

Let’s be honest. No one likes this question during an interview. Yet, it comes up again and again. So, what does the interviewer want to hear? Should job seekers have a ready-to-go response about how their weaknesses won’t affect their job? Or perhaps take the bolder approach with something like “I don’t have any weaknesses”.

Or is it time to start answering this question honestly and in a way that will help determine if the job is the right fit? To begin with, let’s reframe the word ‘weaknesses’ into areas for development and growth. So, looking at the job on offer, what skills are needed to do the role, and what skills do you have? What skills would you like to learn, evolve or expand?

When you reframe the question that way, a more constructive discussion can be had. Are there skills you would like to learn? If so, what opportunities does the company offer for training and development? Are they willing to support your professional growth? What courses, training or mentorships could you explore to upskill?

Interviewers aren’t asking this question to catch job seekers out but rather to get to the core of how you see yourself progressing. It’s also your opportunity to find out if the company is the right match for you and your goals. So next time this question pops up, rather than shy away with a stock-standard answer, dig deeper. What skills does the role require, and what skills do you have? Are there gaps?

Taking a thoughtful approach to the question will make you stand out from the crowd while having a productive conversation about your career path in the process.

Keen to get your job search underway? Reach out to the National Workforce team on 1300 WORKING.