How to Tackle Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions are a common tool used by hiring managers and recruiters to gain insight into your past behavior in specific situations.
They believe that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance, and thus use these questions to predict how you are likely to behave in similar situations in future roles.
While facing such questions can be stressful, understanding their purpose and preparing effectively can better equip you to tackle them with confidence.
Recognizing Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral interview questions typically relate to situations from your past work experience. Recognizing these can help you better frame your responses. They often start with phrases such as:
- "Tell me about a time when..."
- "Describe a situation..."
- "Give an example of..."
Understanding the STAR Method
The STAR method is a structured manner of responding to behavioral interview questions. It entails detailing a situation from your past work experience using the following components:
- Situation: Describe the context within which the experience took place.
- Task: Explain your specific responsibilities and what was expected of you.
- Action: Describe the steps you took to address the situation.
- Result: Detail the outcomes of your actions, emphasizing your contributions.
The STAR method not only ensures that you provide all the necessary information but also helps you deliver your answer in a coherent and concise manner.
Selecting Relevant Experiences
Before your interview, reflect on past situations that showcase your skills and abilities relevant to the job you’re applying for. Establish a list of your past experiences and accomplishments. While doing this, think about:
- Times when you faced and overcame challenges.
- Instances when you took the initiative.
- Projects where you achieved a particular success.
- Instances when you learned a significant lesson.
Practicing Your Responses
Once you have prepared your responses, practice them. This can help you speak confidently during your interview. Further, be honest and ensure that your responses align with the information on your resume or CV.
Remember to focus on your specific role when describing the situation, and be sure to highlight the results of your actions.
Framing Your Weaknesses Positively
Some behavioral interview questions may be oriented towards understanding your weaknesses or times when you failed. Examples could include:
- "Tell me about a time when you missed a deadline."
- "Describe a situation where you had a conflict with a team member."
It’s essential that you tackle these questions honestly, yet positively. Acknowledge your mistake but focus on what you learned from it and the steps you took to ensure it didn’t happen again.
What Next After Tackling Behavioral Questions
After responding to the behavioral questions, it’s now time to ask your questions. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company culture, expectations, team dynamics, and any other areas that matter to you.
You might want to consider asking about:
- The team you will be working with.
- Learning and career growth opportunities.
- Typical challenges individuals in this role experience.
- The company's expectations in the next 6-12 months.
Asking such questions can help you gain insight into whether this organization and role are a good fit for you—remember, an interview is a two-way street.
Summing It Up
Tackling behavioral interview questions doesn't have to be daunting. By recognizing such questions, understanding the STAR method, selecting relevant experiences, and practicing your responses, you can face your interview with confidence.
No doubt, honesty and positivity are crucial when framing your weaknesses. Last but not least, maximize the opportunity to ask your questions once you have responded to the interviewees.
By following these steps, not only will you impress your interviewers, but you will also increase your chances of securing your desired job!
