Interview Tips - Should you apologize for your weaknesses?
We all have our disadvantages. Yet, sometimes we consider some of our weaknesses as critical.
For example:
- lack of education
- inadequate work experience
- old age
- a certain physical limitation
- too many work places in the resume
- low language levels
In an interview, the applicant is apprehensive and is concerned about possible questions that may be asked that are related to their perceived weakness(es). When indeed a related question is raised, the applicant is anxious and responds with an apology.
For example, an interviewer asks an applicant that has worked in a large number of companies as to why that is. The applicant, apprehensive to begin with, blushes and admits that the same question is asked of him in other interviews. This response in the form of a latent apology magnifies the issue and may actually turn to be an obstacle in the interview; a self fulfilling prophecy.
If the perceived weakness preoccupies the applicant it becomes a salient point in the interview and may compromise it. However, if the applicant manages to decrease the importance of the perceived weakness in their own mind, its affect on the interview may be minimal.
Some people perform extremely well despite their limitations and may even turn their perceived limitation into an advantage; others are completely held back by them. Our attitude towards our limitations and weaknesses is of more importance than the actual limitation. An applicant that apologizes for having a weakness is making a critical mistake.
Most of us think that the way in which the interviewer perceives our weaknesses determines the outcome of the interview when in effect; the outcome of the interview is determined by our own perception of ourselves.
Apologizing in an interview is a mistake which stems from insecurity. As a candidate you must show that despite your limitations you are a worthy one. Do not using an apologetic tone during the course of your interview.
- If you lack sufficient education, prove that despite this limitation you make up for it in work experience.
- If you lack work experience show how you make up for it in talent, skill and motivation.
- If you are older, you must have a lot of valuable experience and ambition. (Note: asking an interviewee explicitly of their age is illegal in some countries).
- If you are limited physically in some way, show how the limitation does not compromise the work you are expected to do.
- If you have changed too many jobs, emphasise your versatile work experience or elaborate on only some of the roles you had, those that are most relevant.
- If you do not have full command of the language, show that you have all the skills necessary to fulfil the role regardless.
In any case emphasise your strengths. Do not apologize for your weaknesses. Prove that despite your weakness you are a worthy candidate.
Remember!
The purpose of a job interview is to assess your suitability for the job offered. An apology may be interpreted as lack of faith in your own ability to do the job. You must believe you are the best candidate for the job.
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