Once you’ve secured the big interview, it’s time to ace it – and preparation is key.
Luckily, Taryn Ross, talent acquisition manager at the recruiting firm Pivot + Edge, has some advice that will put you at the top of the candidate list.
On the company’s TikTok account ( @pivotandedge ), Taryn revealed the biggest mistake you could be making that could be unknowingly stopping you from landing your dream job.
She says it all comes down to how you answer the age-old question – “What’s your greatest weakness?”
First off she explains exactly how you should not respond.
Taryn said that when you’re asked what your greatest weakness is, you shouldn’t say you can’t think of anything or that you don’t have any weaknesses as this will have the interviewer immediately crossing your name off their list of prospective hires.
Follow these tips ( Image: @pivotandedge / TikTok)
She also said that although it’s good to be honest, it’s probably best not to say anything that would obviously jeopardise your chances of getting the job, like saying you’re never on time (even if it’s true).
Taryn also said that you don’t want to say your biggest weakness is something completely unrelated to the job, like for example, revealing your love for fast food.
Instead, you want to pick something that still paints you in a flattering light.
Taryn gave these good examples: “I sometimes have difficulty asking for help when needed.
“I like to get my work done quickly and efficiently but it is something I am actively working on.”
Another acceptable answer Taryn provided was: “I often have a hard time saying no.
“I’m a team player and want to help out my colleagues to the best of my ability, but I need to stop overfilling my own plate.”
In the comment section, Taryn gave additional answers when asked about your weaknesses.
If your weakness is confrontation, Taryn suggested saying: “In the past I found myself compromising too much to avoid upsetting others, but I learned that it was more beneficial to everyone to offer constructive criticism when needed.
“I like to get my work done quickly and efficiently but it is something I am actively working on.”
Another acceptable answer Taryn provided was: “I often have a hard time saying no.
“I’m a team player and want to help out my colleagues to the best of my ability, but I need to stop overfilling my own plate.”
In the comment section, Taryn gave additional answers when asked about your weaknesses.
If your weakness is confrontation, Taryn suggested saying: “In the past I found myself compromising too much to avoid upsetting others, but I learned that it was more beneficial to everyone to offer constructive criticism when needed.
“I’ve learned to find a balance between positive results and efficiency because perfection isn’t always attainable.
“Now, I set limits and stay accountable to them so I don’t overthink.”