How to Answer the "Your Weaknesses/Improvements" Question for Applicants and Referees

Today, we discuss something that I’ve covered extensively with my clients in our VIP 1:1 sessions and group coaching sessions. What does it actually mean to answer this question: What is an area of weakness or area of improvement for the applicant?

This question often comes up in applications, reference letters, and job search and academic interviews. After being on admissions committees and providing references for applicants for many years now, I am challenging the misconceptions (what else is new!)  about this question and tell you exactly what admissions committees and employers are looking for. (Hint: Contrary to Google and popular belief, being detail-oriented is not considered a weakness!) 

Here are some key takeaways from this episode:

• Answering this question requires applicants and referees to frame the applicant’s area of weakness or improvement around self-awareness and growth, and being able to take feedback in order to move forward and overcome barriers. It’s about telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end and finishing with a strong note. 
• Referees, in my opinion, have an obligation to the applicant to support them wholeheartedly, and should only say “yes” to being a reference if they will 100% support them and represent the significance of the applicant’s experiences. But there are some circumstances when referees do have to say “no” to applicants, such as when students approach them too late in the application cycle, or when they don’t know the student well enough from time spent together in class. 
• Reference letters actually take a substantial amount of time to write, so potential referees should be given at least 3 months notice to begin drafting. 
• Forming meaningful relationships and networking are so important in academic and professional advancement, and, of course, the application process, so start early! 

Resources and links mentioned in this episode: 

Episode 27: HR Recruitment With Olessia Lapina —> https://applyyourselfglobal.com/ep-27/ 

Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission is now open for you to complete your applications in 12-weeks! With live coaching, you develop your applications & gain insights into your applications processes like never before. Join us now using this link to enroll!

Connect with Adrienne!

Looking for support with your graduate or professional school applications? Connect with us at Apply Yourself Global™! Email me personally at [email protected]. You can also DM me on Instagram @applyyourselfglobal.

Ask the Expert

Have any questions on applications, success, test prep, and more? Send your questions us, or you can submit an audio file via Instagram DM and we can feature you on the podcast!

Work with Adrienne

💫 Calling all applicants! Learn more about our signature course, Mastering Academic Applications: From Scratch to Submission and how you can complete your applications — with clarity, support, structure, and strategy with Dr. Adrienne Shnier, an Admissions Committee Member. Book your Strategy Call HERE to learn more about how AYG can help you Get In.💫