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Being asked to enumerate one's weaknesses is one of the trickiest questions in job interviews. Applicants fear that weaknesses they mention may ruin their chances of getting the job. After all, one has to put his best foot forward and avoid stumbling in the process.

 

However, employers don't ask that question for the sake of nitpicking. Recruiting experts from the United States point out in Yahoo! HotJobs that the question helps them see if potential employees are willing to advance by knowing what they lack and seeking ways to improve themselves. Here are some tips that could help you answer this rather uncomfortable question without feeling queasy about it.

1. Let the job description guide you. Before you sit down for the interview, it's important to see if your strengths and weaknesses match the requirements of the position. Amanda Mertz of the Wells Fargo Home and Consumer Finance Group says that not all strengths can be considered such, since it all depends on the position you're applying for. For example, you may think that being too focused on small details can go a long way, but the job you want may require you to pay more attention to the bigger picture. In the same way, weaknesses may actually be the strength you need.

2. Be upfront. DeLynn Senna of Robert Half International advises candidates not to deny any weaknesses, but to explain in detail their areas of improvement and how they are working to improve. Be sure, however, that the weakness is not directly related or crucial to the position--otherwise, the position may not be meant for you.

3. Make sure your answers are consistent with what your references know about you. References are not enumerated in your resume for nothing. In case the company you're applying for is particular about feedback, be sure that your answer is consistent. Yves Lermusi of Checkster says this is a way for employers to assess the candidate's awareness of his own strengths and weaknesses.

4. Choose wisely. Employers ask this question not just to see how much your weakness needs improvement, but also to see how you react under pressure. Kathy Gans of Ajilon Professional Staffing advises candidates to simply be honest and, if possible, focus on a weakness that is not one of the top three qualities needed for the job. It may also help to explain in detail the steps you've taken to improve yourself so the employer will see the efforts you've been exerting.