Job Interview for Librarian Position--what are your weaknesses?

Question

Whenever I go to a Librarian interview and they ask me what are my weaknesses in this area, I never have a good answer.

I'm not saying I don't have weaknesses in different areas of life or if it were a different field, however, working at a library allows me to use those areas that are my strengths which is I'm sure part of the reason I earned my Masters in this area. I love the people, finding information & sources. I'm good at the desk work that's part of the work, ordering books, etc....But just for tomorrow, could someone enlighten me in answering this. It may help someone else who stumbles on answering this question also.

Answer 1

If they ask about weaknesses, mentioning the things you don't really like or aren't good at that don't have much of anything to do with the job would be good.

It's probably fair to say that doing financial stuff isn't your favorite thing to do if it isn't - it usually isn't. But if that's part of the job, stress that you realize it has to be done and that you'll do it competently.

Stress that you're glad to have found a field where you can use your strengths.

From your self-description, sounds like you'll be pretty good for the job. Liking people and finding info are right up at the top of the things you'll need.

Good luck.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

The best way to handle this question is to minimize the trait and emphasize the positive. Select a trait and come up with a solution to overcome your weakness. Stay away from personal qualities and concentrate more on professional traits.
Try something like this "I pride myself on being a detail oriented person, and I admit I get frustrated with people who don't pay attention to details, however I am working on being more understanding in that area.
When confronted with this question, remember the interviewer is looking for a fit. She is forming a picture of you based on your answers. A single answer will probably not keep you from getting the job, unless, of course, it is something blatant. Put your energy into your strengths statement -- what you have to offer. Then let the interviewer know that although you may not be perfect, you are working on any shortcomings you have.

Answer 4

"This is a direct invitation to put your head in a noose. Decline the invitation. Your best chance is to give a generalized answer that takes advantage of value keys. Design the answer so that your 'weakness' is ultimately a positive characteristic. For example: 'I enjoy my work and always give each project my best shot. So when sometimes I don't feel others are pulling their weight, I find it a little frustrating. I am aware of this weakness, and in these situations I try to overcome it with a positive attitude that I hope will catch on."

Answer 5

You should say that your determination has sometimes seemed like a weakness. You enjoy helping patrons so much that you often spend too much time trying to find the best and most reliable sources of information for your patrons. Sometimes when someone asks for books about WW2 all they want are the dates it started and ended.

Answer 6

I alway use the same answer when I get that questions:

My weakness is that I get frustrated when other employees don't do their jobs. I work hard at over coming my feelings and try to just do the best job I can.

This usually goes over pretty well as most supervisors can relate to this problem.

Answer 7

tell them harmless examples of things that have NOTHING to do with being a librarian...like ...cooking...or...being outdoors too long (ragweed allergy)...or...watching baseball games...whatever you say ; make it cute and harmless like a good librarian should be...

Answer 8

But you have to tell them about YOUR weaknesses, not ours!