How to Answer "What Areas Need Improvement?" (With Sample Answers)

by Daniel Wolken

Published at: November 24, 2023

When you're in a job interview, it's common for the interviewer to ask about areas where you need improvement. This question can be tricky because you don't want to come across as incompetent or unprepared. It's important to answer this question thoughtfully and honestly, while also highlighting your strengths and potential for growth.

One way to approach this question is to focus on areas where you have already made progress, but could use some further development. For example, you might mention that you have been working on improving your time management skills, but could benefit from additional training or resources. This shows that you are proactive and self-aware, and that you are committed to continuous improvement.

On the other hand, it's important to avoid mentioning areas where you have no experience or knowledge. For example, if you are applying for a job in marketing, it would not be helpful to say that you need to improve your coding skills. This would make you appear unqualified for the position and could hurt your chances of getting hired.

Why Employers Ask This?

Gauging Self-Awareness: Employers want to see if you're aware of your limitations and challenges. In remote work, where supervision is limited, self-awareness is key.
Assessing Honesty and Humility: Can you own up to your flaws? Employers value transparency, especially in remote settings where trust is fundamental.
Understanding Your Growth Mindset: Are you someone who's committed to personal and professional growth? This is crucial in the ever-evolving remote work environment.
Evaluating Problem-Solving Skills: How do you address and overcome your weaknesses? Your answer can reveal your approach to problem-solving.

How to Answer "What Areas Would You Like To Improve" Interview Question?

Identify Relevant Areas: Choose areas for improvement that are particularly relevant to remote work, such as time management, communication skills, or adapting to new technologies. Before the job interview, think about your professional journey. What challenges have you faced? How did you grow from them?
Explain with Context: Provide context for why these areas are important for remote work and how improving in these areas can enhance productivity and collaboration.
Be Honest, But Strategic: Pick an area of genuine improvement. Maybe it's time management or getting used to remote collaboration tools.
Active Improvement Strategies: Discuss the specific actions you are taking to improve. This could include online courses, self-paced learning, or practical strategies you’re implementing in your daily routine.
Link to Remote Work Success: Connect your areas of improvement to how they can contribute to your success in a remote work environment.
Conclude with Confidence: End with a statement expressing confidence in your ability to evolve and how this journey of improvement makes you a better candidate for remote roles.

What Not to Say

Clichés: Avoid overused phrases like "I'm a perfectionist." They sound insincere.
Red Flags: Don't mention weaknesses that are critical for remote work, like struggling with basic tech skills.

Sample Example Answers

When asked about areas that need improvement in a job interview, it's important to answer honestly and thoughtfully. Here are how to answer what areas need improvement examples and answers to help you prepare for this question:

Good example answers

Time management: "One area that I'm always working on improving is my time management skills. I've found that I can get sidetracked easily, and sometimes I spend too much time on one task, which can cause other projects to fall behind schedule. To address this, I've started using a task list and prioritizing my work based on deadlines and importance. I also make sure to take breaks throughout the day to stay focused."
Public speaking: "I'm comfortable speaking with coworkers one-on-one, but I get nervous when I have to present in front of a group. To improve my public speaking skills, I've started attending a local Toastmasters club. I've also been practicing my presentations in front of a mirror or with a friend to get more comfortable speaking in front of others."
Leadership skills: "As a team member, I'm always looking for ways to improve my leadership skills. I've started taking on more responsibilities, such as mentoring new team members and leading small projects. I've also been reading books and taking online courses to learn more about effective leadership strategies."

Bad example answers

Perfectionism: "I'm a bit of a perfectionist, so sometimes I spend too much time on tasks to make sure they're perfect. I know it's not always necessary, but I can't help it. I think it's better to do things right the first time than to rush through them and make mistakes."
Lack of experience: "I'm new to this field, so I know I have a lot to learn. I don't have any specific areas that need improvement, but I'm open to feedback and willing to learn from my mistakes."
Lack of motivation: "To be honest, I don't really have any areas that need improvement. I think I'm doing a pretty good job already. I'm just looking for a new challenge and a chance to grow in my career."

Conclusion

Answering the "areas for improvement" question isn't just about honesty. It's a chance to showcase your self-awareness, growth, and suitability for remote work. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate that you're a candidate who not only recognizes their weaknesses but is actively turning them into strengths.

Be honest, but also show that you're willing to learn and grow. Use specific examples and explain how you're actively working to improve in these areas. With the right approach, this question can be an opportunity to showcase your self-awareness and commitment to professional development.

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