Strengths and weaknesses: what should I talk about in the interview?

Do you know which strengths and weaknesses you should mention in the interview? Read the text and see some examples.

In a job interview it is very common to be asked what the strengths and weaknesses of a candidate. Has it ever happened to you?

Did you know what to answer at the time or did you get all flustered? To give an accurate answer to this question, you need to have self-knowledge and know what your strengths and weaknesses are.

Additionally, it is important that you know what the company wants to hear from a professional when asking this question.

So, in today's text you will find out what you should say in the interview when you are asked about your strengths and weaknesses. Don't miss it!

post index:

• What are strengths? Here are some examples;
• 1. Proactivity;
• 2. Good communication;
• 3. Creativity;
• What are weaknesses? Here are some examples;
• 1. Perfectionism;
• 2. Not speaking well in public;
• 3. Anxiety;
• Conclusion.

What are strengths? Here are some examples to talk about in the interview

In an organizational environment, your strength is related to your ability to perform some activity excellently, easily and frequently.

In other words, if you can stand out by performing a task, whenever you want, that is your strong point.

However, they can be linked to behavioral or emotional skills as well.

For example, knowing how to work under pressure or resolving conflicts easily can be considered a strength.

Anything you do with above-average quality and consistently is your strong point.

Check out some examples below strengths that can be highlighted in the interview 

1. Proactivity

Companies are increasingly looking for proactive professionals. This is because they have a balanced combination of self-confidence and autonomy.

A proactive employee is a solution-seeker. They can easily take the lead in presenting solutions or solving problems.

Furthermore, they tend to have different perspectives than others, are bold and are not afraid to take risks.

Other than that, they are always motivated, use creativity to resolve conflicts and don't settle.

Certainly, this is a definition of the professional profile that most organizations seek.

2. Good communication

Good communication is essential in any type of relationship. It is no different in the workplace.

Among the professional profiles most sought after by companies, the specialist who knows how to communicate is among them.

It is worth highlighting that having good communication is not about talking a lot: it is about knowing how to use words and when to use them.

A communicative person knows how to express themselves and demonstrate their ideas and thoughts. In addition, they know how to listen, as this is a very important tool for good communication.

With the right communication tactics, many conflicts can be avoided or resolved simply.

A professional who knows how to communicate is persuasive and conveys a lot of confidence and enthusiasm.

In some professions, this characteristic may be more required and important. However, having good communication is essential to maintain good relationships in the organizational environment as well.

3. Creativity

A creative professional tends to be more proactive and innovative, that is, they can have three strengths that companies are most looking for, in just one person.

In some roles, creative intelligence is essential, however, even in professions where creativity is not a main factor, having a creative person on the team can make all the difference.

Creative people are full of ideas and are always innovating. They also pay attention to details and can easily see things that others can't, or at least from a different perspective.

They always have solutions that can resolve conflicts and challenges more skillfully.

Certainly, being a creative person is a strong point that will make you stand out in any situation, including job interview.

So, did you identify with any of the strengths mentioned above? Know that you can talk about them in the job interview, if you identified with any of them.

If you don't have any of the strengths mentioned above, there's no point in talking about them in the interview, right?

Don't worry, there are still many strengths that you can highlight, but first you must evaluate yourself to find out what yours are.

Remember: a strength is something you are very good at and that can be useful in the company or help you stand out in the development of your professional activities. 

See below some more examples of what can be a strong point:

• Entrepreneurship;
• Concentration;
• Emotional intelligence;
• Interpersonal relationship;
• Ease with metrics;
• Empathy;
• Attention to detail;
• Transparency;
• Flexibility.

What are weaknesses? Here are some examples to talk about in the interview?

Choosing negative points to highlight in the interview is challenging. This is because you might say something that displeases the recruiter and end up losing the opportunity.

However, there is no need to be afraid! Interviewers know that no one is perfect. Everyone has flaws or weaknesses.

To help you know what to say when asked about your weaknesses, see below some common examples.

1. Perfectionism

Perfectionism can be a positive or negative point, depending on the situation. However, in an organizational environment it can be seen as a weakness.

You can mention perfectionism as a weakness, as you always seek the best results, however, you need to make it clear that you can be flexible and make quick decisions at the same time.

2. Not speaking well in public

At least 411% of people are afraid of public speaking. So don't worry, it's a very common weakness mentioned in interviews.

In addition to talking about it, it is important to highlight what you do to try to solve this problem.

For example, you might mention that you are reading a book that is helping you a lot. overcome the fear of public speaking.

In fact, read and show your progress, if it is a contract.

3. Anxiety

Millions of professionals have difficulty controlling anxiety and nervousness in the workplace.

Although it is a weak point, it is something common and acceptable. However, it should also be observed and treated.

You also need to highlight that you are taking steps to change this, for example, by doing therapy, meditating, etc.

Other examples of weaknesses to talk about in the interview:

• Disorganization;
• Not liking to take risks;
• Shyness;
• Insecurity;
• Demanding;
• Difficulty in delegating tasks;
• Be very self-critical;
• Procrastinator;
• Impatience;
• Not dealing with unforeseen events;
• Lack of focus.

Take the opportunity to read it too 👉 How to work on focus and concentration: See 7 essential tips!

The secret when talking about a negative point is to demonstrate your willingness to change the situation. 

Always present actions and attitudes that you have been taking to be less anxious, nervous, impatient, shy, etc.

Additionally, you can highlight your developments: before, I couldn't speak in public, but now, I even speak to a small audience at my church.

Conclusion

As you can see, the strengths and weaknesses can greatly influence the job interview.

Therefore, it is important to know yourself and know exactly what to say. By knowing yourself, you will be able to support what you say, as you will convey truth, sincerity and express your feelings well. positive and negative points.

Thinking about changing careers at 50? Then read our article⤵️⤵️⤵️

👉 7 tips for making a career transition in your 50s!

Nara Sampaio

SEO writer, digital content creator, and virtual assistant. An introvert who found in writing a way to express herself and share knowledge!

May 30, 2022