Im a problem solver.

I love taking a problem and

looking at it from every angle. I enjoy work that
challenges me and pushes me to think outside the
box. I enjoy situations where I am allowed to work
with other people to come up with creative
solutions. At my last company we were asked to
come up with ways to increase our work flow without
decreasing our accuracy. By really analyzing what
every department was doing and finding ways to work
together more efficiently, I was able to not only
streamline the process, but made it possible for us to
beat our previous deadline by three days with a
superior product as an end result.
This is a great answer because it lists three strengths in quick
succession without bogging down. The interviewer now
knows the candidate is a problem solver, likes
challenges andenjoys working as a team. Theyre also saying
that they enjoyefficiency and communicating with different
departmentsand provides a solid example of how theyve
used those strengths to solve a problem.
Ive always been known for my work ethic. I am
committed to meeting deadlines and taking
responsibility for the quality of my performance. A
few months ago I was working with a client who had
us on a tight deadline. There was a mix-up in the
delivery of some key paperwork and it didnt get to
our office until closing the night before the
deadline. Rather than go home and ignore the
problem, I stayed late and finished the project,
making sure that our deadline was not only met, but
that the report was accurate.
The hiring manager now knows that this candidate is a hard
worker who cares about doing the job right and on
time. Three highly valuable qualities in any good candidate!

Im a people person. As a customer service rep for

the past five years, Ive learned how to deal with a
wide variety of personalities. I enjoy handling tough
cases as it gives me a chance to problem solve. I
enjoy interacting with the public and love doing
outreach. Two summers ago I was lucky enough to be
a part of the Black Friday crew. A lot of other
employees found it stressful and didnt enjoy it but I
really found that I loved the excitement and the rush
of having so many people come through so
quickly. Not only was I constantly engaged, but I was
able to provide one on one shopping assistance to a
few last minute gift buyers. Not only did I have a
great time but my team had the highest receipts for
the entire weekend! It felt great.
This is the kind of person you want to hire. Theyre clearly
enthusiastic about their job and have experience not only
doing the job well but also doing it under difficult and/or
extreme conditions. The candidate also backed up their
story with easily verifiable facts, something a good hiring
manager will later verify (again, always make sure what
youre saying is truthful!)
Of course these are just examples. Its up to you to find the
answers that fit your job and your qualifications the best.

Solid Leadership skills

Solid Management skills
Willingness to take on responsibilities
Ability to meet deadlines
Determination

Problem Solver
Flexible
Clear attention to details
Quick Learner
Strong People Skills
Team Player
Creative
Reliable
Positive
Able to work independently
Organized
Hard Working
No matter what skill you decide to highlight in your answer,
just make sure that its applicable to the job and the
company and that you have a truthful and solid example to
back it up.

1. Trying to turn a negative into a positive.

Youll find many books and articles that advise you to turn a negative into a positive by
sharing a supposed weakness that is actually a desirable quality in an employee. A few
examples:
I am too much of a perfectionist.
I work too hard sometimes.
I care too much about my work.

Clever idea. At this point, though, its an old trick and the interviewer sees right
through it. She has seen many candidates try the same song and dance. In fact, this
approach will likely make her think you are hiding something.

2. Refusing to answer the question.

Some candidates will assert that they cant think of a single weakness. This is probably
because they dont prepare for the question properly and freeze up, afraid to say the
wrong thing. This answer also makes you look like you are hiding something.

3. Revealing a weakness that raises red

flags.
Another mistake is to be too candid and confess to a weakness that would hinder your
ability to excel in the role. I once had a coaching client answer, I have trouble getting
up in the morning and getting to work on time. His real weakness was that he was way
too honest.

Example 1: Delegation
I think one area I could work on is my delegation skills. I am always so concerned
about everything being done right and on time that I can get stuck in that mentality of
If you want it done right, do it yourself. Unfortunately, thats not always possible and
Ive realized that I can slow things down if I am too controlling.
I learned this recently when given the opportunity to manage the departments
summer interns. I had never managed direct reports before, so this was a hugely
educational experience in many different ways. It definitely taught me how to delegate
and my manager noticed the difference in my management style at the end of the
summer. I know that I can benefit from additional development in this area, so I signed
up for a management skills training course and am always looking for opportunities to
manage projects for our group.
Why It Works: This is a great example for a junior-level employee in a role in which
delegation abilities are not critical. Please note that the last sentence in the first

paragraph is important because it acknowledges how the weakness can be a problem and
why its worth working on.
The weakness is acknowledged and described, but the emphasis is more on how the
candidate has sought out ways to improve.
Keep in mind that this is not such a terrific answer if youre applying for a job that
requires you to manage people.

Example 2: Too Direct

Sometimes I can be a bit too honest when I provide feedback to coworkers. My
personality is naturally very straightforward and to the point, and most of my
colleagues really value that, but I have learned that there are times on the job when
more diplomacy is required.
I took a training class on conflict management and it really opened my eyes to the need
to communicate differently with different people. So now I am much better at
providing constructive feedback, even if it doesnt always come naturally.
Why It Works: This weakness is described well. The candidate notes how directness
has been a weakness while also making it clear that he is not a raging jerk to his
coworkers.
In the second part, he talks about concrete steps that he has taken and how he has
improved.

Example 3: Public Speaking

Honestly, I would say that public speaking is an area that I could work on. I tend to
get nervous when asked to present to a large group of people. In small team meetings,
Im the first one to stand up and present. But put me in front of a big group and I can
get flustered.

I actually spoke to my manager about this and we set it as one of my development

goals for this year. I took an internal presentation skills class and attended some
meetings of Toastmasters, a networking group for people who want to practice public
speaking. With some practice, I started to feel more comfortable. Last month, I even
volunteered to represent our team at a division-wide town hall. I only had to present
for 10 minutes, but I did it and got great feedback! It was actually kind of fun, so I plan
on continuing to seek out opportunities to improve in this area.
Why It Works: Fear of public speaking is a common fear. In this sample answer, the
candidate makes it clear that she has no trouble communicating in general (which could
be a red flag). Its just getting up in front of a big group that scares her.
She goes on to describe how she identified the weakness, spoke with her manager about
it, and then took proactive steps to improve. She even has a little triumph at the end.

Example 4: Impatience
1) What is your greatest weakness? (OR) What is your
biggest weakness?
Straight forward and to the point. Okay..lets hit this!
I have a hard time letting a project go or sharing a
task with others because Im always convinced that I
can do it all on my own and that asking for help will
be taken as a sign of weakness. This has led to me
taking on projects that have overwhelmed me and
resulted in me being frustrated and angry. It hasnt
been easy learning to let go, but Ive been working on
trusting others and sharing the responsibilities for
projects and as a result, have been able to really
accomplish some incredible things.

2) Tell me. what are your weaknesses?

Crap! More than one?!? Dont panicwe can do this!
There are times when Im too blunt and honest and
might seem aloof. I tend to say the first thing that
comes to my mind without thinking about what Im
saying first. When Im dealing with other people this
can come across as cold and even a little mean which
isnt my intention at all. Once I realized I was doing
this it was a matter of slowing down and thinking
before I say something to someoneespecially when
Im giving people feedback. Im actively working on
making sure that my criticisms are constructive and
that Im leaving people with solutions and options
rather than just shutting them down

3) If you could change one thing about yourself, what

would it be?
Dont be tempted to answer this one with something superficial
this is still a weakness question!
I hate confrontation and in the past found myself at
times compromising what I wanted or needed in order
to keep the peace. This was a real problem, especially
in team situations or when I was supposed to be
leading a group because there are times when you
need to tell people things they might not necessarily
want to hear. Since then Ive realized this is a
weakness of mine and Ive worked very hard to
overcome it. Now instead of avoiding those situations,
I take it as an opportunity to practice being more
assertive without coming across as difficult. I take the
time to listen to each side of the situation and make
sure that if I have any comments or criticisms that

they are constructive and that the solutions I offer are

actual solutions and not just peace patches.

4) Are you working on any sort of developmental goals

currently? Do you set goals for yourself?
Ooh, this one is sneaky! Its the same questionjust twisted
around to sound like something new. Good thing youre prepared
for it already!
My goal is to be involved in more team tasks. I have
a hard time delegating and realize this is something I
need to work on. Being the only one in control isnt
always realistic or possible and my desire to control
every aspect of a project can not only slow me down,
but can also give my teammates the impression that I
dont trust them or value their work. Because I know
this is something I have to work on, I like to volunteer
for team projects. The experiences, while initially
uncomfortable for me as I had to learn to let things go
and rely on other people, have really helped to open
my eyes to the value of cooperation. As a result Im
discovering that projects, which would have been fine
if I had done on my own, are ten times better as a
result of the input and work of the entire team.

5) If I called your past supervisor, what would they tell me

are areas you could improve on?
Aarghthis one is one of the toughest ones because not only are
you being asked to come up with a weaknessyoure being asked
to think about what someone else would find as a weakness in
you.

I get really nervous speaking in front of other

people.

Part 1: List of Strengths

Assess your skills, and you will identify your strengths. This is an exercise worth doing
before any interview. It would also be wise to identify your strengths and assess your
skills. Come up with a list then divide them into the following areas:

Transferable skills
The skills that one gets in a work environment (e.g. people skills,
planning skills, communication skills and much more)
2

Personal traits
Those that make you unique (e.g. hardworking, friendly, reliable and
dependable, ability to work with little to no supervision, expressive and
punctual)
3

Knowledge-based skills or credentials

Skills acquired from education and experience (e.g., computer
knowledge, languages, degrees, training and technical ability).
4

Examples of strengths
Once youre done, take three or five of those strengths and compare
them to see which ones are up to the requirements of the job
description, and make sure you can give accurate examples, stating
why it is your strength when questioned further.

Integrity

This is a virtue that includes confidentiality, observing policies and procedures, bei
able to maintain value and ethics when under pressure or when faced with oppositio

Self-discipline

It includes avoiding distractions, self-motivation, setting goals, not procrastinating a

controlling personal behavior.

Communication

This includes both written and verbal communication skills. Examples of verbal
include presentations, conflict management and active listening among many while
written includes correspondence and reports.

Being able to analyze problems, to find cause and possible solutions, ability to
identify and define problems, coming up with and implementing best solutions.
Problem solving

Teamwork

Communicating effectively with team members, listening and encouraging them,

respect, contributing to team objectives and working effectively in a team.

Initiative

This is simply taking steps to make your job and the company better. e.g. identifyin
needs and coming up with solutions, providing ideas for improvement, etc.

Persistence/ Resilience

Includes staying enthusiastic after a setback, overcoming obstacles to achieve, takin

criticism positively, dealing with disappointment effectively and handling rejection

Judgment/ Decision
making

It includes following through on decisions, coming up with viable alternatives,

gathering the necessary information to make a sound decision after considering the
pros and cons of each.

Planning and
organizational skills

Includes multitasking, meeting the set deadlines, managing time, keeping up with
calendars or schedules, setting and achieving objectives and goals.

Diligent/ Strong work

ethic

Includes working hard, maintaining good quality work, doing more than that which
required, taking on extra hours, finishing projects before or on time and working
without supervision.

Part 2: List of Weaknesses

1
We all have weaknesses, and you should present your weakness as a
problem that can be solved so that it wont disqualify you from the job.
Hence, it is vital to explain showing ways of overcoming the weakness.
By showing initiative on self-improvement, you can convince the
interviewer that your weakness can be turned into a positive
2
You may not have much experience so you have to show interest in the
job you are applying for. Be ready and focus on the qualities you have
that would make you a viable candidate for the job. It would also be in
your best interest to give the courses taken in detail in preparation of
the job.
For example if the job youre applying for doesnt involve a lot of
calculations or statistics you can point out that mathematics is your
major weakness. At this point, you can tell the interviewer that you
have some knowledge in computers on how to automate calculations
as a way of overcoming your weakness.
3
You can also use a weakness that can be turned into strength. For
example, you can say that because you are eager to get things done
very quickly you may say you are working on being more patient. In
tackling the problem, you try to reconsider your to-do list and find it
effective in task prioritization.
4

List of weaknesses
Impatience

Being impatient with co-workers on their standard of performance or tha

their pace is slower than your expectation.

Over-talkative

These people are always a distraction to others and are constantly being
distracted. They are not discreet and are almost never at their desks.

Unassertive

They agree on anything and with everyone despite what they feel on the
topic and so they are constantly being used by others. They are not able t
say No.

Stubborn/ Uncompromising

They find it difficult to adapt to changes and are not flexible. They dont
accept new ideas and communication is often one way.

Procrastination

Always rushing to complete tasks the last minute. Missing or postponing

deadlines and always asking for help in finishing tasks. Often exhibit low
productivity.

Reluctance to share/ Delegate

tasks

Such people dont share tasks and they dont have confidence in
coworkers, they dont utilize the resources and skills of others fully and a
constantly checking up on coworkers.

Controlling/ Strong-willed

Such people on achieving their goals are single-minded and they dont
accept direction easily. When it comes to the needs or feelings of others,
they can be insensitive as they want to take charge.

Being too sensitive

This is more like thinking with your heart rather than your head. One get
too disappointed and takes things personally.

Being a debater

An individual becomes too passionate with work and for any changes the
require a reason. It can be good for a project or product, but it might not s
well with others.

Lack of some skills

No person has all the requisite skills for the job profile. There is no one
person who has all the skills for the job. Just show them your willingness
and ability to learn.

Part 3: How to Answer "Describe Your List of Strengths

and Weaknesses" in Interview
1

Be honest
This is key during an interview. Be honest with your strengths and
weaknesses. Although there are those answers that seem appropriate
for the question
2

Pick the right one

When applying for a job, look at the requirements. Factor in your
personal strengths that are needed in the position youre applying for.
Alternatively, choose weaknesses that are minor enough to least impact
your job.
3

Answer the question

We all have strengths and weaknesses and your potential employer is
well aware of this. So dont be ashamed to mention your weaknesses,
and at the same time dont be too arrogant or proud in describing your
strengths and never say you dont have any.
4

Dont blame anyone

One of the most admirable qualities is taking responsibility. When
youre required to explain a weakness, do so without pointing fingers.
Deal with your personal weakness in a responsible way without
assigning blame.
5

Beware of TMI (too much information) syndrome

During an interview one should know when he/she is revealing a little
bit more than they should, and this can make the interviewer question
your judgment. So it would be best to save the stories on dating
coworkers and the dangers of cocktails before board meetings for your
friends.
6

Keep it work-related
Try as much as possible to talk about the job in place and your
performance and keep it work related. Stay on topic and give relevant
answers. You do not want to be remembered as the person who has 7
cats all named after famous Hollywood sensations.