What is a Behavioral Interview and How to Excel at Behavioral Questions

Behavioral interviews are a type of interview that focuses on how a candidate has handled specific situations in the past. The premise is that past behavior is a strong indicator of future performance. Interviewers ask questions that require candidates to provide examples of how they have dealt with challenges, worked in teams, or demonstrated skills relevant to the job. Here, we explore the key characteristics of behavioral interviews, the STAR method, and how to prepare effectively for these types of questions.

Key Characteristics of Behavioral Interviews

Focus on Specific Examples

Candidates are expected to share detailed stories about their experiences. These stories provide insight into their problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and how they have handled various professional situations. By focusing on specific past experiences, interviewers can assess the candidate's reliability, adaptability, and other essential competencies.

The STAR Method

The STAR method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—is a widely used framework for preparing responses to behavioral interview questions. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge.

Task: Explain the actual task or challenge that was involved.

Action: Describe the specific actions you took to address the task or challenge.

Result: Share the outcomes of your actions, including what you learned.

The STAR method helps structure your responses in a logical and organized manner, making it easier for the interviewer to follow and understand your experiences.

How to Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Understand Common Questions

Familiarize yourself with common behavioral interview questions such as:

Describe a time you faced a conflict while working on a team. How did you handle it?

Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight deadline. What did you do?

Give an example of a goal you set and how you achieved it.

Having knowledge of these types of questions can help you feel more prepared and confident during the interview.

Reflect on Past Experiences

Think about your previous roles and experiences. Identify key situations that demonstrate your skills and competencies. Consider various aspects of your work such as:

Teamwork and collaboration

Problem-solving abilities

Leadership experiences

Handling stress and pressure

Making a list of such situations can help you prepare detailed and relevant examples for the interviews.

Use the STAR Method

Prepare responses using the STAR method. Write out your examples to ensure you cover all aspects of the situation, task, action, and result. This will help you develop a clear and concise narrative for each example.

Practice Your Responses

Rehearse your answers with a friend or in front of a mirror. This can help you:

Clarify your thoughts and ensure your answers are coherent and well-structured.

Increase your confidence during the actual interview.

Be Honest and Authentic

Choose real experiences that genuinely reflect your skills and values. Authenticity can resonate well with interviewers. Be prepared to explain why you chose each example and how it relates to the job you are applying for.

Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

Show your interest in the role and company by preparing thoughtful questions. This can also help you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values. Some examples of questions you might ask include:

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?

What are the team’s biggest challenges currently?

What are the long-term goals of this department?

These questions not only demonstrate your interest but also help you gather valuable information that can be beneficial for you during your job search.

By preparing in this structured way, you can effectively convey your experiences and demonstrate your suitability for the position during a behavioral interview. Remember, the key to success in a behavioral interview is not just in knowing the right answers, but in being able to communicate them succinctly and effectively.