Why Is “What Are Your Weaknesses?” Still Asked in Job Interviews?

“What are your weaknesses?” If you have ever been through a job interview, you have probably heard this question. It continues to show up, even though everyone involved knows it is a pointless exercise. Still, it remains a standard part of the interview process — but why?

This question seems designed to trip candidates up or test their self-awareness. But does anyone truly believe the person being interviewed is going to reveal a genuine weakness? The obvious answer is no. And yet, the question continues to be asked, as if it will uncover some deep truth about the applicant.

I once responded in an interview by asking, “Do you expect me to actually tell you my weaknesses?” Unsurprisingly, that interview did not go well. But I still stand by that answer. It is not that I do not have weaknesses — everyone does. But asking someone to expose them during a job interview, where they are trying to present their best self, makes very little sense.

There is an entire industry around crafting the perfect response to this question. Online forums, articles, and videos offer “acceptable” answers designed to sound honest but reveal nothing damaging. Phrases like “I work too hard,” “I care too much,” or “I am a perfectionist” are repeated endlessly. These are not real confessions. They are rehearsed lines meant to pass the test without any real risk.

If interviewers are hoping to test honesty, there are better ways to do it. Ask situational questions. Explore how the candidate has handled challenges. Look for consistency between their experience and their behavior. Do not rely on a question that almost always invites a carefully constructed answer.

This question adds no real value and often wastes time. If the goal is to understand a candidate better, perhaps it is time to stop asking for fake flaws and start having real conversations.

So here is a thought — if you are not going to believe the answer, maybe stop asking the question altogether.