This article was taken from the February 2011 issue of Wired magazine. Be the first to read Wired's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
You've sent your CV, attended assessment days and are in the interview fielding the question, "What's your worst feature?" Don't panic. Bill Tomlin, executive director of recruitment at Verridian, guides you through the minefield.
Don't make it personal
"Never say, 'I'm a procrastinator,' or, 'I'm overly emotional.' It may be a personal feature for you, but it's irrelevant to the interviewer," says Tomlin. Make it operational: if you're a perfectionist who runs very close to deadlines, then admit it, but add what you've done about it. "That's the key point. What are your issues and what have you done to address them."
You're not perfect
If you're being asked about your weaknesses, saying you don't have any is a hugely negative answer. "We all have weaknesses," explains Tomlin. "If you're not aware of your deficiencies then you're certainly not aware of what you should be doing about them. That's not the type of person they want on their team."
Do your homework
Every question that comes your way is an opportunity to sell yourself, so make sure you go in prepared. "We've all got gaps and issues we need to address -- everyone does, including the interviewer. So think of something that has been a genuine issue for you in the past, how you've recognised it, and what you've done to address it."
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
