Why we should talk about weaknesses more (particularly at interviews)
Whenever I am coaching somebody in interview skills, ultimately, we spend time on how to answer the question ‘tell me about your weaknesses’. And most of us are familiar with the advice – tell them something that also sounds like a strength. For example, I am a perfectionist and work longer hours than I need to because I want things to be perfect. Some employers would love that answer and embrace it. What could go wrong in hiring somebody who overworks to get the perfect outcome?
Except if that is a weakness, that person will eventually burn out. While their perfectionist nature may help them to be successful, it could also be their downfall. And it sets up both the employer and employee for a potential crisis. Something that is a strength only works for us when we use it in the right amount. When we overuse it, we become de-energised and tired.
So, why have we made it a thing that we can’t acknowledge our weaknesses and be honest and open about them? We all have them – we are all human and made up of complex characteristics, emotions, thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Why do we feel the need to hide our weaknesses in order to be successful? (Don’t get me wrong, I am as guilty as the next person)
And there is that thing where in our head we constantly criticise a colleague for something they are not good at – but ignore our own weaknesses because it makes us uncomfortable to think about them.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if you went to an interview totally yourself and not feeling like you might be caught out? How about getting a job offer where they say ‘we think you are the best person for the role and your experience is just what we need – we acknowledge that sometimes you can get too caught up in the small details which are unimportant. We have come up with a plan where we can flag that with you as we work together in the first 6 months and get to know each other and our expectations’. That might sound a little too idealistic or naïve, but how about if we don’t find that out about the person we hire and then spend the first 3 months tearing our hair out because they insist on every little detail being brought to the fore?
I guess though unless or until that happens, we will continue to think about how we can portray our weaknesses as a strength. And just a reminder, if you manage to secure a role that plays to your weaknesses, you are in for a bumpy ride.
If you want help in sorting through what the means for your next role, get in touch and let’s talk
