The “What’s your biggest weakness?” question is a classic interview challenge. Many candidates either dodge it with a disguised strength or pick something irrelevant to the role. However, the most effective approach is to share a genuine area for improvement and explain the concrete steps you’ve taken to address it.
Why? MBA admissions committees aren’t looking for perfection — they’re looking for self-awareness, honesty, and a growth mindset. By acknowledging a real weakness, you show that you can evaluate yourself critically. By pairing it with specific actions you’ve taken — such as training, mentorship, or process changes — you demonstrate initiative and a commitment to professional development.
Framing a minor flaw as a positive or avoiding the question altogether can come across as evasive. Choosing an irrelevant weakness may signal that you’re unwilling to be vulnerable about areas that truly matter in leadership.
Handled well, the weakness question can actually strengthen your candidacy. It proves you can own challenges, learn from them, and continuously improve — exactly the qualities top business schools want in future leaders.