Stop rehearsing. Start connecting. Here’s how to nail the question everyone dreads
Let's be honest:
The moment the interviewer says, "Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses," most people get a little knot in their stomach.
It feels like a trap, right?
Say too much and you might come off arrogant. Say too little and you seem unsure or evasive.
It’s tempting to reach for something safe and familiar, like "I'm a perfectionist."
The problem? It sounds rehearsed, not real — and you have so much more to offer than that.
But here's the truth no one tells you:
When you understand your natural Perceptual Style, you can answer this question authentically and powerfully.
Not only will you sound genuine, you'll actually be genuine.
Strengths Are About How You See the World
Your Perceptual Style is the way you naturally make sense of the world.
It shapes how you solve problems, connect with people, handle change, and make decisions.
Your greatest strengths? They come directly from that way of seeing.
For example:
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If you naturally zero in on opportunities and possibilities, that's a strength. (Hello, Vision)
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If you're all about structure, order, and proven systems, that's a strength. (Greetings, Methods)
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If you're energized by fast-moving, action-packed environments, that's a strength too. (Shout-out to Activity)
When you talk about your strengths, don't just list generic skills.
Talk about how your natural way of engaging with the world sets you up for success.
Use real examples.
Stories beat bullet points every time
For example: "I’m at my best when things are moving fast and priorities are shifting — because I’m wired to spot what matters most and rally people around action."
Much more memorable than "I'm a good multi-tasker," right?
Weaknesses Aren't Flaws — They're Style Blind Spots
Here’s something important to remember:
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Every Perceptual Style comes with some blind spots.
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They’re not character flaws.
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They’re just things that don’t come as naturally to you because you literally perceive the world differently.
And that’s OK.
It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being self-aware.
When you talk about a "weakness," frame it through that lens:
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Name it honestly.
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Share how you manage it.
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Connect it to growth.
For example: "Because I naturally focus on big-picture opportunities, I have to be intentional about managing the smaller details. I’ve learned to partner with others who excel at execution and to build personal checklists that keep me grounded."
See the difference?
You’re not apologizing for who you are.
You’re showing that you know yourself—and that you’ve built smart strategies to stay effective.
Why This Approach Works
When you answer from your Perceptual Style:
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You sound confident without bragging.
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You show vulnerability without seeming weak.
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You demonstrate emotional intelligence (which, by the way, hiring managers absolutely love).
Most importantly?
You’re giving the interviewer a real glimpse of how you’ll show up on the team—not some rehearsed version of yourself that disappears once the job starts.
Quick Prep Tips Before Your Next Interview
Get clear on your Perceptual Style strengths. (Not sure what they are? Our Perceptual Style Assessment can help.)
Reflect on your blind spots.
Think about real examples of how you've adapted or grown.
Practice framing both strengths and weaknesses in a way that connects to the job you’re applying for.
Stay conversational.
You’re not giving a TED Talk—you’re building a connection.
Final thought:
Own who you are.
That's your real advantage — not some script or hack.
When you lead with your natural strengths and self-awareness, you’re not just answering an interview question, you’re laying the foundation for a career that fits you, not the other way around.
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About Lynda-Ross
Lynda-Ross Vega is a partner at Vega Behavioral Consulting, Ltd. She specializes in helping corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals with interpersonal communications, team dynamics, personal development, and navigating change. Lynda-Ross is co-creator of Perceptual Style Theory, a revolutionary behavioral psychology theory and assessment system that teaches people how to unleash their natural strengths and build the life and career they dream of.
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