Example Weaknesses for Interviewing

1. I focus too much on the details

Being “detail-oriented” a typically a good thing, but if you’re someone who tends to spend too much
time on the specifics of a project, it could also be considered a weakness. By sharing that you focus
too much on details, you’re showing your interviewer that you’re capable of helping the organization
avoid even minor mistakes.

Be sure to explain how you’re making improvements in this area by looking at the big picture. While
employers may not love the idea of having an employee who is preoccupied with fine points, a
candidate who assures quality and strives for balance can be a great asset.

Example: “My greatest weakness is that I sometimes focus too much on the details of a project and
spend too much time analyzing the finer points. I’ve been striving to improve in this area by checking
in with myself at regular intervals and giving myself a chance to re-focusing on the bigger picture.
That way I can still ensure quality without getting so caught up in the details that it affects my
productivity or the team’s ability to meet the deadline.”

10. In the past, I have been uncomfortable with ambiguity

Many jobs require candidates who are comfortable individually defining tasks and working
towards goals. This means they should be experienced, thoughtful and responsible with
ambiguity in the workplace. While it is certainly a beneficial skill to closely follow detailed
instruction, it is also necessary to be able to determine what it takes to achieve the desired
outcome.

If this is the weakness you are presenting in an interview, explain the success you have found
following instructions but also your career potential when finding comfort with ambiguity.
You should also explain the steps you are taking to define your workday when given
ambiguous tasks or goals.

Example: “In my last position as a marketing intern, I found that my supervisor gave very
specific instructions regarding my responsibilities. Because I became familiar with having a
strong direction, I tend to be unsure when approaching an ambiguous assignment or goal.

It is a goal of mine to become not only comfortable but successful working with ambiguity.
To do so, I have created a personal framework for times when I feel overwhelmed or
confused by an ambiguous task including conducting structured research and asking subject
matter experts for advice. Doing so has helped me thrive when working on ambiguous tasks
or when working towards less specific or defined goals.”