Let’s be honest, it’s the interview question everyone dreads…

You’re cruising through the interview. You’ve nailed the questions about your experience, you’ve charmingly explained why you want the role, and you’ve even managed to make small talk about the weather. Then, it happens. The hiring manager leans back, steeples their fingers, and asks: ‘So, what are your weaknesses?’

If what comes next is sudden panic, sweaty palms, and the urge to say ‘I work too hard’ or ‘I’m a perfectionist’ – you’re not alone. In fact, whether it’s finding it difficult to talk negatively about yourself, or just falling into the same old clichés, this is actually one of the things that trips up the most applicants. Especially if you haven’t prepared for it in advance.

We’ve already covered some of the most common interview questions that could come up and how to prepare for an interview, but here’s our expert advice for how to answer: ‘What are your weaknesses?’

What is the interviewer really asking?

To give a great answer, you first need to understand what the hiring manager is trying to find out.

What they’re asking: ‘What are your weaknesses?’

What they’re actually asking: ‘Do you have any self-awareness? Are you arrogant, or are you humble enough to know you aren’t perfect? And are you going to give me the same evasive answers as everyone else, or are you going to level with me?’

Technically, there’s no right way to answer this question. But there are plenty of wrong ones.

Most people fall into the trap of not being genuine with their reply. Or, worse, they pretend that their weaknesses are trivial or irrelevant (like ‘I care too much’). Spoiler alert: they’re not.

The golden rule here is to actually answer the question. It’s a test of character. They want to see how you handle a curveball and whether you have the emotional intelligence to recognise areas for growth.

How to prepare your answer

Follow this three-step guide to structure a standout response that won’t cost you the job.

Step 1: Tell them what they already know

The first thing to remember here is that your interviewer has already read your CV.

That means there’s a pretty good chance they already have a few ideas when it comes to your potential weaknesses. So, at the very least, they’re just looking for those to be confirmed and (crucially) contextualised.

In other words, it’s time to level with them.

Using any gaps or lean patches in your CV will help to give your answer a sense of focus. Not to mention allay any potential worries they have that you aren’t right for the role. It also has the added benefit of being linked to skills or previous experience, rather than your personality.

Sure, it may seem easier to say something about the kind of person you are (e.g., stubborn or persistent). But personality traits are harder to ‘fix’ than skills gaps, so this approach is riskier.

How to explain a gap in your CV

Step 2: Use the job description

Nothing missing on your CV? Move on to the job description.

Using some of the KPIs they’ve set out, for example, is a great way to show you fully understand the requirements of the role. With the added bonus of demonstrating that you know what the company sees as being important to their success.

Be careful not to overdo it though. You need to pick a weakness that is not a deal-breaker for the role. For example, if you’re applying to be a Copywriter, don’t say your weakness is spelling.

Instead, see it as a jumping-off point for step three (below). Remember: most people wouldn’t dream of talking about their weaknesses in this way. So this is your chance to clearly demonstrate your honesty and integrity.

How to: Use job descriptions to land your dream role

Step 3: Show that you’re working on them

The key to this question is to show that improvements are already being made.

With this approach, you instantly demonstrate your commitment to getting better in your field. And a lifelong learner is always more attractive than someone with a natural but narrow skillset that they won’t ever move away from.

In 2026, adaptability is one of the most sought-after soft skills. By admitting a weakness and showing the proactive steps you’ve taken to address it (like taking a course or seeking mentorship), you’re proving you have a growth mindset.

Again, be confident in your answer here, and don’t shy away from the truth. Or, ultimately, apologise for it. It should never come across like a forced confession.

Try and finish up with a question, if you can. This will help to steer the conversation back onto what you can do.

The best CV skills every employer wants to see

What is a good example answer?

Here’s how you can put it all together.

‘I’d say my greatest weakness at this point is public speaking. In my previous role as an Account Executive, I tended to shy away from presenting in big team meetings because I found it quite nerve-wracking.
However, I know that communication is a vital part of moving up to a Senior Account Manager position. So, I’ve been actively working on it. I recently joined a local Toastmasters group to get more comfortable in front of an audience, and I’ve volunteered to lead the Monday morning briefing for the last two months.
While I still get a few butterflies, I’m much more confident in structuring my thoughts and delivering them clearly. Looking at the KPIs for this role, I see client presentations are key, and I’m ready to apply what I’ve learned to deliver great pitches.’

Notice the structure? It admits the weakness honestly, explains the action taken to fix it, and links it back to the job. Simple.

How to use the STAR method in your interview

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? We’ve got you covered.

Can I say I have no weaknesses?

Please don’t. Saying you have no weaknesses doesn’t make you look perfect; it makes you look like you lack self-awareness. Everyone has things they can work on. A CEO has weaknesses. Even Batman has weaknesses. If you say ‘none’, the interviewer will assume you’re either arrogant or you just haven’t prepared.

What are some ‘safe’ weaknesses to use?

Ideally, choose a skill-based weakness rather than a personality trait. Skills can be learned; personality transplants are harder to come by. Good examples might include:

Public speaking or presenting to large groups.
Delegating tasks (if you’re new to management).
A specific software or tool (provided it’s not essential for the job).
Being too critical of your own work (but explain how you manage it).

Should I talk about a personal weakness?

Keep it professional. While you might be terrible at cooking or bad at remembering birthdays, the Hiring Manager cares about how you perform in the workplace. Stick to professional skills or behaviours that impact your work life.

Need more interview answers?

Unfortunately, we don’t have a crystal ball to tell you exactly which questions will come up on the big day. However, with the right preparation, you can handle anything they throw at you and avoid any interview nightmares.

Looking for more advice on answering tough interview questions? Check out these articles:

For more expert advice, buy James Reed’s latest book: Why You? 101 Interview Questions You’ll Never Fear Again.

Five interview questions you should stop being scared of

Best questions to ask at the end of an interview

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