"Tell us about your weaknesses..."

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When an interviewer asks this question, is it really what they are asking, or is it a trick question ?
I mean, in my last interview, I was asked that question, and I replied that I found it a bit hard to concentrate on something I didn't find challenging. As soon as I said this, I thought "oops" ! I did quickly say to the interviewer though, that the reason I was going for the position was because I found it very interesting...

So is the exercise here, to somehow turn your weakness into a strength ?
Is this also one question where it's ok not to divulge too much information ?

 

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It is somewhat of a trick question. I mean in school when we were tought about writing cv's and doing interviews, we were told that if a question of that sort ever came up, we should reply with an answer that is both great but at the same time something that bothers you.

For example; if you're asked what is your weakness you could say that I am a perfectionist. Meaning that I have to get everthing perfectly done before I am satisfied, that way it shows the employer that you are more then willing to get a task done and are serious about it but at the same it portrays as habit of yours that you're not too keen about, or comfortable, etc.

 

I really, really bloody hate it when interviewers ask things like this. I remember back when I was doing my degree, I went for a job as a fitness instructor and they asked me exactly that. Wihtout thinking (I hadn't had much experience of job interviews then) I replied 'oh, I can't be patient with ignorant people and tend to lose my rag with them', instantly regretting that, as obviously being a fitness intructor is a client-facing role.

I didn't get it.....

It's one of those questions where there are generic if slightly cheesy answers, but you want to make sure it looks like you've just thought of it otherwise they'll spot it a mile off, like 'I'm a perfectionist and may spend longer than necessary on a job but I have to get it just right' or 'I get frustrated easily but only when a job isn't done properly'. You're putting a positive spin on a negative question

I think also they want to make sure you don't say something like 'if someone disagrees with me then I punch them in the face' or 'I'm a raging alcoholic'.

 

It is a tough question, I've tried two approaches, a) to come out with the cheesy answer, disguised with a genuine discomfort like mentioned. b) answer with a genuinely truthful negative comment, and explain that you wouldn't be human if you was perfect in everyway- honesty + loyalty?

Guess I better make some ammendments to my CV

 

My weakness? Kryptonite.


Just kidding. I'm more of a "Man of Aluminum".

 

My weakness is a low tolerance for stupid people who ask stupid questions. So, when do I start?

 

Or

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/1213771/trainspotting_interview/

 

Lol, so that's how it's done. I can't wait for my next interview

 

I usually say I used to be too quick at things and used to miss obvious things when it comes to quality control but always found the things that not many people noticed. I have now come to address these into a balance.

I would say my only weakness now is being too thorough.

 

Or you could say I have no weakness in regards to this job/vacancy!

 

I couldn't say that I would feel like I was being a big head or something.

 

LMAO, or that could work!

 

I really, really, REALLY can't stand it when someone turns me down for a job. In fact, I tend to get quite irate and start taking it out on those who have rejected my services.

But that won't be an issue here... WILL IT????

Good, I didn't think so.

----or----

I have the propensity to say completely inappropriate things at the wrong times. Nice rack.

 

Which I suppose would go along nicely with my twitching eye and twitching neck...

 

If I answered "My only weakness is not being able to pass hitchhikers on the side of the road and my patio is already full"

 

Too bad it was a male interviewer with "man boobs".

:I am *so* in trouble now...aren't I?:

 

You wouldnt believe the amount of times i've suffered from foot in mouth syndrome (or FiMS) over the years, both in interviews and normal conversations. Some times at my expense and the rest of times at others. (discuss hotdog and then say you took a foot long in a room full of men! I meant to say ate a foot long)

if i get asked that question in an interview i normally say "I'm persistent yet stubborn. I'll chase a problem until i have an answer and don't want to give in. Or will ask a question and stand next to whoever until i get an answer, and if i don't i'll be back again."

 

Impressive... two off of each one!

Tell me, where will you place the fifth? ;)