Details are the Key to Answering Behavioral Interview Questions
During a job interview, employers ask different types of questions to determine if you have the knowledge and skills needed for their open position. Behavioral questions are often used by interviewers to gain helpful information about candidates.
A behavioral interview asks questions about how you have handled situations in the workplace. It is a good way to evaluate certain skills, including time management, adaptability, overcoming challenges, communication styles, conflict resolution, and teamwork.
Examples of behavioral questions.
- Give an example of when you had to handle multiple responsibilities at once. How did you prioritize your time?
- Share a time you had to be flexible or adaptable.
- Talk about a time you handled a challenging situation.
- How do you stay motivated when a job requires you to perform repetitive tasks?
- Share an example of a time you had to stand up for your beliefs.
How to prepare for behavioral interview questions.
Your answer should include a concrete example of how you worked through a special circumstance or issue. Briefly share your story but focus on specific details or actions taken and the results achieved. Think about scenarios that could apply to the position you are interviewing for. Use the job description to identify valuable skills and share examples that highlight those skills and why you are an ideal candidate. Be positive; share the problem but focus on steps taken and the results.
Use the STAR Method. Glassdoor.com outlines what STAR stands for and how to use it to answer behavioral questions:
S=situation. What was the problem? Be specific.
T=task. What was the goal? What did you do to get there?
A=action. Share the steps that were taken.
R=result. What was the outcome?
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