You're in a job interview and the interviewer asks, "What are your biggest failures? (2024)

FAQs

You're in a job interview and the interviewer asks, "What are your biggest failures? ›

Choose a specific failure

Avoid fixating on the specific incident Instead of lingering on the details of what went wrong. Moreover, pinpoint the underlying causes of the situation and underscore the valuable lessons you've acquired. Describe the proactive steps you've taken to ensure that you don't repeat the same mistake.

Instead, choose a more authentic and less overused weakness. For example, you might mention that you sometimes struggle with giving critical feedback, but you're working on developing this skill through training and practice. The interviewer will appreciate your honesty.

For example: Three years ago, we were doing A, but realized the result fell short of the goal. Things were just not working. Many saw it as a failure, but we also saw it as an opportunity to improve, so we did a thorough analysis and realized that B was a better tactic.

Examples of failures

Receiving poor or failing test grades. Not getting accepted into a degree or certification program. Interviewing for a position but not securing a job offer. Getting a bad performance review.

Failure is the inability to meet a target or achieve a goal in due time. According to this definition, failure occurs daily at work, at home and in society. Failing is part of learning and it can work in your favour in your career. While some failures are of little significance, others can be career-defining.

Example: “My greatest weakness is that I get impatient when projects run past the deadline. I'm a stickler for due dates and get uncomfortable when work is not completed on time. To avoid this, I've started being more proactive and checking in with people before deadlines.

A: When answering, focus on your relevant skills, experience, and achievements that make you the best fit for the role.You should hire me because I am a hard worker who wants to help your company succeed. I have the skills and experience needed for the job, and I am eager to learn and grow with your team .

What is the biggest mistake you have ever made at work? ›

There are a few best practices and things to avoid when faced with this question during an interview: Pick a specific example of a true work experience (not personal) Make sure the mistake was minor, and one you successfully fixed. Keep it brief, but be prepared to provide more details.

Here are some common mistakes that happen at work that might help you think of the right example to share in an interview: Misunderstanding instructions from a coworker, leading to a mistake. Missing a deadline. Losing a customer/client as a sales representative.

The Biggest Mistake I Made In My Life Is This

I didn't truly value my time or the opportunities it afforded me: I pretended I would get another chance, and so instead spent time on things that didn't matter in the long run and that I did not have to do – missing out on the single chance I had.

Provide a Brief Highlight-Summary of Your Experience

The best way to answer "Tell me about yourself" is with a brief highlight-summary of your experience, your education, the value you bring to an employer, and the reason you're looking forward to learning more about this next job and the opportunity to work with them.

Tips to Answer 'What Is Your Biggest Failure?'

Be honest: Interviewers can detect insincerity. Be truthful about your failure and present it genuinely and authentically. Stay positive: While discussing your failure, maintain a positive tone and focus on the lessons learned. Avoid dwelling on negative aspects.

Key Takeaways. TELL A STORY: Describe an occasion of success or failure fully, explained what challenge was involved, how you responded, and the outcome of your actions. DETAIL LESSONS LEARNED: Explain how and what a challenging situation or project taught you and how it has contributed to improving your work skills.

Emphasize your willingness to grow by explaining what you learned. As you discuss what you did to overcome your disappointment, try to emphasize your growth-oriented mindset. You can even discuss what lesson you learned about yourself as a professional through the experience.

Briefly explain how you're continuing to learn and improve upon the skills you gained from your regretful experience. Share your ongoing efforts to avoid similar mistakes or further develop the skills you learned. Show a proactive approach to personal and professional development.