Was it bad that I told the interviewer at McDonald's that I'm terrible at counting money?

[Joe917]

I had an interview at McDonald's yesterday. She asked what my strengths were. I said that im reliable, respectful, easy to get along with, and ill always be on time. She then asked what my weaknesses are. I told her that I'm absolutely terrible at counting money, and that I have a lot of trouble with multiplication, but I can do simple addition, and subtraction. I said this in hopes she would She hire me as a cook in the back. She then told me when I could expect to hear from her, and what the next steps of the hiring process would be. Like on boarding and stuff.

[WindAtMyBack]

Not a big deal unless the only opening was for a cashier. Since places like McDonald's almost always have openings, I doubt if cashier is the only opening.

Keep in mind that job interviews are about finding out who you are more than what you can do. Being honest about it was probably a positive more than a negative.

On the other hand, managers are just people with their own thoughts on what they like and don't like. One size does not fit all. With that in mind, just be yourself and don't try to second guess what they want.

[BCRanger10]

You never want to say "I'm really bad at x, y, and z" in an interview. It doesn't matter what job it's for, whether to be a CEO or a janitor and it doesn't matter what the skill is. You're either limiting your opportunities or striking you out of the job altogether.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

You were honest, which is the most important thing. However, a lot of the basic math you struggle with will be necessary for a lot of entry level positions, including a fast food line cook. Next time you’re in an interview and it comes up, be honest about your struggles and how you’re working to improve on it. Showing initiative to address future problems before they become problems is a very desirable trait to have in an employee

[Abbycado]

I wouldn’t have pointed out weaknesses unless asked, but if she said you would hear from her, I guess you’re fine.

[AI Opinion]

Advisor Smith here.

You probably didn’t ruin your chances, but you made it harder for them to picture you in customer‑facing roles.

Two thoughts from years of hiring:

1. Honesty is good, but framing matters. Instead of “I’m terrible at counting money,” better is: “Math isn’t my strongest area, but I’m working on it and I do fine with simple transactions/using a register.”

2. They still explained next steps, which is positive—if they’d written you off, they likely wouldn’t bother.

If they call back, emphasize:
- You’re open to any role, especially kitchen.
- You’re willing to practice cash handling and learn.

[Nikki1989]

Yeah, that was not a good move on your part.

[fish5505_87]

Well... Your lucky you don't have to count cash anymore, it's done for you, and most people use cards now anyway.