Strengths & Weaknesses

How to Answer “What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?” in an Interview

This question shows up in almost every interview—for one reason:

It reveals how well you know yourself.

Interviewers aren’t looking for perfection. They’re listening for honesty, awareness, and judgment. How you answer this question tells them how you work, how you grow, and how you handle feedback.

Here’s how to get it right.

First: What This Question Is Not

This question is not an invitation to:

• List every skill on your résumé
• Deliver a rehearsed “humble brag.”
• Share a weakness that’s actually a strength
• Confess something that would disqualify you

The goal is credibility, not cleverness.

How to Talk About Your Strengths

When discussing strengths, focus on:

• Skills you actually use
• Qualities that matter for the role
• Strengths supported by examples

A Simple Strengths Formula

Strength + Context + Impact

Example:

“One of my strengths is problem-solving. In my last role, I was often brought in when projects stalled, and I helped teams clarify priorities and move forward more efficiently.”

Good strengths are:

• Relevant
• Specific
• Grounded in experience

Avoid long lists. Two or three well-explained strengths are plenty.

How to Talk About Your Weaknesses (Without Hurting Yourself)

This is where many candidates struggle.

A strong weakness answer shows:

• Self-awareness
• Accountability
• Growth

The Right Way to Frame a Weakness

Real weakness + awareness + improvement

Example:

“Earlier in my career, I struggled with delegating because I wanted everything done perfectly. Over time, I’ve learned that clear expectations and trust lead to better outcomes—and stronger teams.”

This works because it:

• Is honest
• Doesn’t undermine core ability
• Shows progress

What to Avoid When Sharing Weaknesses

Avoid saying:

• “I work too hard.”
• “I’m a perfectionist.”
• “I don’t really have weaknesses.”

Also avoid sharing:

• Anything critical to the role
• Personal issues unrelated to work
• Problems you’re not actively improving

Your weakness should never leave the interviewer wondering if you can do the job.

 

Sample Strengths & Weaknesses Answers

Example 1

Strength: “I’m highly organized and good at managing competing priorities.”

Weakness: “I used to take on too much myself, but I’ve learned to ask for help earlier and set clearer boundaries.”

Example 2

Strength: “I’m strong at building relationships and communicating clearly.”

Weakness: “Public speaking made me uncomfortable early on, so I’ve taken on more opportunities to practice and improve.”

Example 3

Strength: “I’m adaptable and handle change well.”

Weakness: “I sometimes move quickly to solutions, so I’ve been more intentional about slowing down and gathering input first.”

 

One Final Tip

Your answers should sound human, not scripted.

If you can say:

“I know what I’m good at, I know where I’m growing, and I take both seriously,”

—You’re answering the question exactly the way interviewers hope you will.

- Cheryl Grimaldi, CPC