Why do employers always ask the “greatest weakness” interview question? It seems like they are trying to throw you off. I mean, you rehearse the answer to every possible question that you can think of, and then they ask, “What do you think your greatest weakness is?”

Job interviews are stressful even if you don’t have to answer this question. Regardless, interviews and tough questions are an integral part of career advancement, and you NEED to be able to ace them or you will find yourself stuck in a dead end job. Before you answer this question, you should know that there is no easy answer for it. The intent of this question is to throw you off course. The key is to not let them get away with it.

Be Prepared

A successful interview is dependent on good preparation. Learn as much as you can about the employer you are interviewing with. Study up on their people and their services. If you know who you’re dealing with, you will be less likely to become uneasy during the interview process.

Be prepared for difficult questions including the “greatest weakness” interview question.

Questions are meant to poke deep and reveal your weaknesses. Do not fake your way through tough questions. This will give employers the feeling that you will cheat and fake on the job when you are over stressed.

Short and Simple

The best way to answer any interview question is to answer it honestly and with as little fluff as possible. If an employer asks you what your greatest weakness is, you can state a weakness that you were able to overcome with your last job. You could even bring up a personal weakness not related to your ability to perform as an employee.

The worst thing that you could possibly say is that you are fault free. We are all human. Instead of claiming to be superhuman, use an example that shows how you were able to take a weakness and turn it into strength. This will make you sound resourceful and sure of yourself. It will also show employers that you are not afraid to admit your own weaknesses and work to improve them.

Being prepared to answer the “greatest weakness” interview question and other tough questions is the key to interview success. Always try to turn negative answers into positive solutions. This will impress your potential boss and may even land you the job.

CK Tan is the owner of JobAsiaSearch.com, a web site dedicated to assisting job seekers secure a job in Asia. If you need help in your Asia job search or looking for a job opening in Asia, visit http://www.jobasiasearch.com