Before you can give an effective response to the, “What are your weaknesses?” question, it’s important to understand what the interviewer is trying to achieve. The reason interviewers ask this question is to find out whether you are honest, if you are self-aware and if you can overcome your professional weaknesses.
Once you understand what the hiring manager is trying to do, you can utilize these interview tips to overcome this major roadblock to administrative jobs.
Be Prepared
This is one of the most common interview questions, so you should always have a few answers ready for your admin interview. Not being prepared could cause you to freeze up and either not give an answer, or give a bad answer that raises a red flag to the hiring manager. Not giving an answer could tell the employer you have something to hide. Coming off too rehearsed will seem disingenuous and they may ask for more examples.
Be prepared with a couple of responses in case the interviewer asks for multiple weaknesses or has follow-up questions.
Make Sure It Is Relevant Without Waving a Red Flag
It is imperative to answer this interview question, but giving the wrong answer can really harm your chances of getting the admin job to which you are applying. You should focus on something that won’t directly impact your ability to be successful in the position.
Be Transparent
Giving answers like – “I’m a perfectionist” or “I work too hard” – is not going to work. Take this opportunity to give the interviewer an honest weakness that you are working to improve. Instead of being a negative, it could show your potential for growth.
Focus On Progress
Interviewers do not expect their candidates to be perfect. However, a candidate that expresses their weaknesses without any evidence of progress towards fixing them is going to have a hard time landing that administrative job.
When you state your weaknesses, be certain to show how you have overcome them in the past and what you are doing to improve these flaws moving forward.
For more career advice, or to find the administrative opportunity that is right for you, consider partnering with Management Registry, Inc. We specialize in staffing for healthcare jobs, clerical openings and administrative positions throughout the U.S. Contact MRInc today.