A nightmare of a question – but one that could really work in your favour, if answered correctly.

Understand that when interviewer asks this question, he or she is looking for evidence of self-awareness and analytical abilities.

4 Easy points to remember when answering this question:

1) Never say you don't have any weaknesses – every one has weaknesses

2) Go for something that isn't relevant to the role, for instance, don't say you're bad with numbers if you're interviewing for a job as an accountant!

3) Make sure to choose something minor and easily fixable

4) Always, always, always state that you've recognised the problem, are taking steps to remedy it and explain what those steps are.

Sample answer: [for a sales role where there is very little paperwork]

“I would say my greatest weakness is paperwork. In my previous job as a sales executive, we had a small amount of basic admin that we'd have to do every time we'd make a sale. I used to be so excited about talking to people and getting them to sign up to the service that I'd often leave the paperwork until the last minute and end up spending my own time to catch up.
I did however recognise that it was a problem for me so I took active steps to rectify it.
Instead of letting it all pile up, I began to complete my paperwork as soon as I got it, so that it was all done immediately. Since implementing that strategy my sales actually went up by 10%”

Why is this a good answer?
a) it's a minor problem
b) the weakness is not important to the role
c) the candidate shows self-awareness – they have a problem and took steps to improve it
d) they stated the good results they got from improving the problem

I hope that helps.

For more job search tips and tricks, visit www.graduatejobinaweek.co.uk– it will launch next week and will have all kinds of tips and tricks on how to get a graduate job fast.