Guide
Answering the weaknesses question in a job interview
The hard questions in an interview almost always target what the recruiter spotted in your CV. You can prepare them.
Anticipate the questions
Reread your CV next to the advert and list what a recruiter might notice:
- a requirement of the advert that your CV barely covers;
- a gap or a short job;
- a change of career or sector;
- a level of experience above or below the one asked for.
Each point gives a likely question. See the weak points of a CV.
A three-step answer
- Acknowledge the point in one sentence, simply.
- Show what you have done: a course, a project, related experience.
- Connect to the role: why the point matters little for the job, or how you are closing the gap.
Aim for thirty seconds to a minute.
An example
Question: the advert asks for Salesforce, which your CV barely mentions.
Answer: I mostly used HubSpot, a tool of the same family, for three years. I completed the Salesforce Administrator course last month, and I will be autonomous on reports within the first weeks.
The answer acknowledges the gap, shows a concrete action and comes back to the role.
Frequently asked questions
Which weakness should I give when asked?
A real one, away from the core of the role, along with what you are doing to improve.
Should I raise a gap in my CV before being asked?
One line on the CV is enough. In the interview, answer briefly when the question comes, then return to the role. See explaining a gap in your CV.
How should I practise?
Write your answers, then say them out loud while timing yourself. ATSway prepares your answers from your weak points against the offer.