How to Answer "What Are Your Weaknesses?" In a Job Interview
A Guide for Neurodivergent Job Seekers
Ah, the dreaded "What are your weaknesses?" question—it's a classic in job interviews and can easily catch even the most prepared candidates off guard. But why do interviewers ask it? I promise it's not just to make you uncomfortable. They want to see how self-aware you are and how you handle personal challenges.
They're looking to understand if you recognize areas where you can improve and, more importantly, what steps you're taking to work on them. So, even though this question might make you cringe and sweat a little, avoiding it or overthinking it isn't the way to go. Instead, see it as a chance to highlight your commitment to both personal and professional growth.
How to Answer the Question: A Simple Formula
When it comes to answering the "What are your weaknesses?" question, the best approach is to be honest—yes, really! But here’s the caveat: you can’t just stop at sharing your weakness. The key is to also tell them what you’re doing about it.
Here’s a simple formula:
Identify a real weakness: Choose something that’s genuine but not critical to the job you’re applying for.
Explain the context: Briefly describe how this weakness has affected you in the past.
Share what you’re doing to improve: Highlight the steps you’re taking to work on this weakness and how you’re seeing progress.
This approach shows that you’re proactive, self-aware, and dedicated to continuous improvement—qualities every employer loves to see.
Example: Time Management
Let’s break down an example using time management, a challenge many of us (especially folks with ADHD) can relate to.
Step 1: Identify the Weakness
"One area I've been working on is time management. In the past, I’ve struggled with staying on top of deadlines, which sometimes caused me to feel overwhelmed."
Step 2: Explain the Context
"Because I often juggle multiple tasks at once, I realized that I needed a more structured approach to manage my time effectively."
Step 3: Share What You’re Doing to Improve
"To improve, I’ve started using time-blocking techniques, where I allocate specific time slots for different tasks. I also use a visual timer to keep track of how long I spend on each task and create daily to-do lists to stay organized. Additionally, I’ve found that body doubling—working alongside someone else, even virtually—helps me stay focused and on track."
Why This Works:
This answer works because it’s honest and specific, showing that you’re aware of your challenges and have concrete strategies in place to overcome them. Plus, it demonstrates your ability to adapt and find solutions, which is incredibly valuable in any work environment (and honestly, most personal environments too!).
Why You Shouldn’t Avoid or Stress Over This Question
It’s natural to feel nervous about discussing your weaknesses in an interview, but remember: everyone has areas they’re working on, and interviewers know this. By openly discussing your weaknesses and the steps you’re taking to improve, you’re not just answering the question—you’re demonstrating resilience, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to growth.
And if you're worried about being judged harshly, consider this: according to a study by Leadership IQ, 46% of new hires fail within 18 months, and the top reason is not a lack of technical skills but a lack of coachability. So, showing that you’re coachable by acknowledging your weaknesses and working to improve them can actually set you apart from other candidates.
Owning a Growth Mindset
In the end, answering the "What are your weaknesses?" question is all about showing that you’re a work in progress—and that’s a good thing! Embrace your growth mindset, be honest, and focus on the steps you’re taking to improve. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being intentional, mindful, and committed to becoming your favorite self.
Want more tips to help you keep growing? Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok for regular tips, tricks, and support! Plus, you can sign up for my insider email list to stay in the loop with the latest resources and exclusive opportunities.