Most of us have, what we perceive to be weaknesses - and prior to interview we worry about questions which might come up that will expose us.

This week, I attended an assessment centre which was selecting candidates for sales roles. One of the assessment activities was a three minute presentation about why the candidates thought they were suitable for a job in sales. At the end of the presentation each candidate was asked some questions; either about what they had said or about their previous work experience.

Many of the candidates struggled with this particularly when asked a question that they perceived to be a weakness. They would ramble, explaining in far too much detail, digging themselves into deeper and deeper holes. Here's an example of what I mean: in answer to "why have you had three jobs in the past year?" the candidate defended their position and talked at length about how their jobs had not worked out and their reasons for moving.

Successful candidates tend to acknowledge the sentiment of the question but move on to the positive i.e. yes, I have had three jobs, I've picked up invaluable experience and I'm now much better placed to excel in sales.

So, bottom line, acknowledge past weaknesses and move on to the positive.

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