i've got an interview this week - how do i answer the HR questions?

Question

i dont mind the job-related technical questions, but usually human resources ask a question like: "what would you say was your weakest point?"
what answer can i give to this question, whilst still portraying myself in a good light? i don't really want to use "well, i'm a bit of a perfectionist ......"

Answer 1

I'm so glad you realize how corny that sounds. The whole perfectionist line is used all the time. I gave something personal and could tell this was the breaking point in being the chosen client! I told the woman that I come off as a bit shy sometimes but I'm not at all. I'm just a bit more reserved when I first meet people and this is sometimes looked at as a weakness.

Answer 2

Give up a real weakness. Don't make one up. Nobody here can really tell you what your weakness is, but if you were doing the hiring, what reason would you have NOT to hire yourself?

That's your weakness.

Now turn that around into a sentence that suggests you want to overcome that weakness and learn how to do better - at xxxx company!

Real weakness: I hate getting out of bed in the morning. I'm always hung over.

Interview weakness: I tend to be overly focused on my projects. Sometimes I stay at the office too late, or bring home work at night. A few nights I've had a hard time sleeping due to my concerns over a project, and occasionally I'll be tired in the morning.

Answer 3

I am a perfectionist. Here is how I answer this question.

I have a tendency to be a perfectionist. I have very high standards for the quality of work that I produce. I ask the individuals I work with what their expectations are. In this way I know the client / co-worker will get what they want. (Sometimes I will give an example as well)

We all have weak points. Admitting to them shows that you know yourself and are ok with yourself. However, I always include how I rectify or work with my perfectionism so it isn't a handicap in the performance of my job.

Answer 4

It's best to simply be honest. What really is your weakest point? Mine is being a perfectionist - I like things done and done well - in a linear fashion - step 1, 2, 3, 4. Real life doesn't work that way, and I've learned to multi-task quite effectively. I can be impatient, etc. Just be honest, and also include what you've done to improve your weaknesses.

Answer 5

Answer them honestly. The purpose of asking your weakness is to assess whether or not you are introspective enough to a) recognize you have weaknesses, and b) hear how you work to improve yourself. The last time I answered this (eons ago, I'll admit) I stated, honestly, that I tend to take control in group settings and that I'm learning to let it be a team relationship instead.

Answer 6

My response to this question is,

My weak point is "scheduling" only because I have not had an opportunity to use it, but I would like to learn.

Sounds corny, but its positive

Answer 7

Say I don't know if I have one but if I had to choose I would say a little over eager at times.