You’re not the only one who dreads this question. Never fear, a bit of preparation will put your mind at ease.

Do your best to avoid answers that seem trite or “canned.” Things like, “Well, I work too hard.” or “I’m just always happy and sometimes people don’t need that.” are way over the line.

Instead, think of something that you consider to be a true professional weakness and talk about how you identified it as such and the steps you’re taking to make it stronger.

My wife would tell you that I’m not the most organized person in the world. And while I function at a high level and consider myself very successful, I must admit that she’s right in telling me that organization is something on which I need to improve. On the first day of every short month (February, April, June, September, & November), I evaluate the areas I need to further develop. I typically pick two professional and two personal areas and the last two cycles, I’ve focused on organization. I’ve read David Allen’s book Getting Things Done, implemented the use of a “tickle” file, and eliminated a large portion of the clutter from my desk and bookshelves. I’m still not where I want to be - and certainly not where my wife wants me to be - but I’ve improved considerably over the last several months.

I look forward to improving in this area in the coming months by learning from my counterparts in the company and their experience on the job.

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