In every job interview, there's that classic question that gives you butterflies in your stomach just thinking about it:
“"What is your biggest flaw?"”

It may seem like a trap — and, in part, it is. But, with the right answer, this question can become... Your best ally when it comes to securing the position.

In this post, we'll show you why this question exists, what recruiters want to hear, and most importantly, How to respond intelligently and authentically. Spoiler alert: avoiding the answer or trying to appear perfect doesn't work.

Why is this question still asked in interviews?

The question about defects is one of the oldest in the corporate world, and it continues to be used for a very simple reason: It reveals more about her attitude than about the defect itself.

What is the recruiter trying to assess with this question?

  • Your level of self-awareness
  • His sincerity and maturity
  • Your ability to learn from mistakes.
  • How do you deal with weaknesses in the workplace?

It's not about listing everything you think is bad about yourself. It's about showing that... You are human, aware of your limitations, and capable of evolving.

What you should not to respond

First of all, let's eliminate cliché, forced, or overly good-to-be-true answers:

  • “"I'm too much of a perfectionist."”
  • “"I work too much and forget about my personal life."”
  • “"I'm very demanding of myself."”
  • “"I have no flaws."”
  • “"That's a difficult question, I've never thought about it."”

These answers are seen as evasive or rehearsed. The recruiter has heard this dozens of times and will probably roll their eyes internally.

Being honest is important — but being strategic is even better.

So what should we answer?

The best way to answer is with a real flaw, but one that doesn't compromise the position in question.
In other words, something you are aware of, have already worked on (or are working on) improving, and which may even have a positive side depending on the context.

The ideal response structure has 3 parts:

  1. Name of the actual defect (with a slight)
  2. Example of how he has already hindered you.
  3. What have you done (or are you doing) to improve this?

By doing this, you demonstrate vulnerability, but also emotional intelligence and a positive attitude.

Ready-made examples of good answers

Here are some ready-made answers that you can adapt to your situation:

1# "I have difficulty delegating tasks"“

“I tend to want to do everything myself to ensure it's done my way. This has overwhelmed me in previous projects. But over time, I've learned that trusting the team is essential, and I've been practicing delegating and sharing responsibilities more. I've even used management tools that have helped me a lot with this.”

Why does it work?
It demonstrates awareness, team spirit, and personal growth.

2# "I'm very anxious about deadlines"“

“I tend to get anxious when I have deadlines approaching, and this sometimes made me revise everything several times and waste time. Today, I've been using organizational methods like the Pomodoro Technique and priority lists, which has greatly improved my focus and productivity.”

Why does it work?
It shows that you care about quality and seek practical solutions.

3# "I had difficulty speaking in public"“

“Early in my career, I avoided presentations and preferred smaller meetings. But I realized that communication is essential, so I took a public speaking course and have been challenging myself more, including taking on group presentations and leading meetings with more confidence.”

Why does it work?
It reveals proactivity, evolution, and readiness for leadership.

4# "I get too involved with the projects"“

“I get emotionally involved with projects, which can be good, but it has frustrated me before when things didn't go as expected. I've learned to separate the personal from the professional and focus more on results and lessons learned than on expectations.”

Why does it work?
It demonstrates commitment, but with a touch of emotional balance.

How to tailor the answer to the job posting?

Consider this: It makes no sense to say that your weakness is "not liking routine" if you are applying for an administrative assistant position. This could eliminate you immediately.

Similarly, if the position requires leadership, avoid saying that you have difficulty dealing with people. Even if it's true, You could rephrase it by saying that you are developing your active listening skills or your interpersonal communication skills.

The key is to adapt without lying.

What if I've never thought about that?

That's okay. It's not a problem to have never stopped to think about your professional shortcomings—but now is the time to start.

Do a simple exercise:

  1. Think about work situations where you felt uncomfortable.
  2. Try to identify what you could have done better.
  3. Reflect on feedback you've already received (from bosses, colleagues, or teachers).
  4. Choose a realistic area that can be improved — and think about what you've done or can do to improve.

You don't need to have completely overcome the flaw. The important thing is to show that you are aware of it and in the process.

The right answer can change everything.

When the recruiter asks you "what is your biggest weakness?", he He's not expecting you to put yourself down or try to pass yourself off as perfect. He wants to see if you're mature enough to recognize your limitations—and if you're intelligent enough to know how to overcome them.

Responding with authenticity, balance, and strategy can Turn a dreaded question into one of the strongest parts of your interview.

See also: Raízen: 476 job openings across the country

April 30, 2025