in a job interview when asked what weaknesses you have, what is it acceptable to say?

Question

and at the end when asked if you have any questions i understand you should have some ready to ask, but like
what????

help appreciated x

Answer 1

Better to tell you what NOT to say.

Under no circumstances tell them that you are a "perfectionist"--everyone uses that one and it's a cheap and transparent attempt to sneak in something that makes you sound like you are trying to disguise a strength as a weakness.

The important thing is to find something that is not too serious, and explain it in a way that emphasizes that you are aware of the weakness and are taking positive steps to correct the behaviour.

They want to hear that you are self-aware enough to recognize your weaknesses, and determined and conscientious enough to work to correct or compensate for them.

Hope this helps

Answer 2

It is important to find a weakness that you can turn around and make it sound more positive. You don't want to say anything really devestating like you have a hard time showing up for work on time or that you call off alot, so pick something more appropriate, such as your not as strong in your organizational skills, but you are working at it. Or perhaps you aren't as strong in your verbal skills as you would like, but always point out ways that you are working to improve it. That shows initiative and drive.

As for questions that you should ask at the end of the interview - it would depend on the job that you are interviewing for. You should do your homework and look up information about the company you are interviewing with. Some of the questions you might ask are about hours, vacation time, benefits, room for advancement, dress code, holidays. Things you really want the answers too. Hope that helps.

Answer 3

Frequent question. Am sure everyone has weakness, be honest about it (without it looking bad on you). Surprisingly, the same weakness can be your STRENGTH too! My answer to this question has always been - I'm meticulous, very thorough in my work, going through again and again just to ensure that everything's alright, need some time for that. Is that a weakness :-)

During the interview, they would have asked all they want to know about you. Interview will usually ends with 'any question from you (about them)'. Asks questions related to the role/responsibilities of the job, more to impressed upon them your interests and for clarification purposes.

Answer 4

Choose a positive trait that can be a negative if taken to the extreme. An example that I have to give is that I 'am' a perfectionist when it comes to keeping things organized. I do get teased about this at work, but my co-workers have admitted that they are glad I'm the way I am.
I am also a people person, this works well since I have to deal with angry people often and can get them to calm down better than most people can. The 'negative spin' on this could be that I get attached to people.
Ask the interviewer what time frame they are looking at to make their final decision. If you like the interviewer, tell them that they gave you a good impression of the company and ask them if they can keep your application/resume on file for future positions even if you are not selected for this one.