Advertisement
Explain your greatest weakness without hurting your chances
Q. I’m job-hunting and am dreading the question that a lot of employers ask, “What is your greatest weakness?” How do I answer this question honestly without ruining my chances of getting hired?
A. The key to giving a good answer to this question is to focus on what you bring to the table and what you hope to learn from the company. Initiative is a valuable asset to employers and you need to show that you have it. If you show a prospective employer that you have the desire to learn as well as that you have a strong work ethic, you can win a spot on the team even if you don’t have all the credentials at the beginning.
It’s important not to confuse a “weakness” with being weak. For instance, you may not be brilliant at Excel spreadsheets for instance, but that doesn’t make you a ‘weak’ person, employee or candidate for the job. In fact, it can be helpful for an employer to know what you aren’t strong at so they can give you appropriate mentorship.
Caird Urquhart is a MoneySense columnist and founder of New Road Coaching in Toronto.
More questions answered:
What should I do with my extra cash? »
The right way to use a spousal RRSP »
Should I have life insurance in retirement? »
Share this article Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Share on Reddit Share on Email
Canadians with no children or siblings must consider estate planning alternatives. Here’s why trust companies can be a good...
The federal government’s capital gains inclusion rate increase has yet to become law. There’s a slight chance it may...
Canadians have reporting requirements for foreign assets, income and tax paid. Here’s how to claim each of these on...
A Certified Financial Planner provides perspective on the TFSA vs. RRSP question for a couple in their late 50s...
In retirement, some income is not subject to withholding tax, and you may potentially owe tax after filing each...
Some strategies are time-sensitive, while others can help you start the new year on the right foot.
Sometimes, it’s not action, but inaction, that can hurt you financially. Here are examples of when selling may be...
Wondering whether your estate planner knows the latest tax laws? Do you need a tax lawyer too? Discover three...
Do Canadians need to consolidate RRSP accounts before converting to RRIFs? Find out this and more.
Here’s a primer for Canadians on choosing between employment and self-employment for a new work arrangement.