What Is Your Greatest Weakness

How to answer this question

• 1Pick a real weakness — not a strength in disguise.
• 2Choose something that is not central to the core requirements of the job.
• 3Show that you are aware it exists and have taken concrete steps to address it.
• 4Demonstrate measurable progress — not just effort.
• 5Keep it brief and forward-focused.

Example answer

Public speaking used to make me genuinely anxious. I avoided leading presentations whenever I could. About two years ago I decided to stop avoiding it. I joined a Toastmasters group for six months and volunteered to lead my team's monthly all-hands update. I am not a natural speaker, but I am comfortable now and my manager has commented that my presentations have improved significantly.