In a job interview: What is the best answer when asked on weakness?

When at a job interview, what is the best answer to give when asked what your weakness is?

• Answer:

  The weakness you choose should be something which has no negative consequences or repercussions, and should never involve a key competency. You could turn this question around by following up with the steps you are actively taking to correct the balance. For instance: "I tend to spend longer than necessary making sure that things are perfect, and sometimes get a little frustrated if I don’t achieve excellence. I did learn early on in my career that this slows output but, on the other hand, without such attention to detail the consistency and accuracy of my work could be affected. It is a difficult balancing act but I am working on finding a more balanced approach." Or, you could use an example based on paperwork (something everyone can relate to) “I realise the importance of paperwork, but I tend to procrastinate if I don’t build it into my schedule. I’m always looking for efficiencies in that area that will get me out in front of the client where I belong.”