Behavioral style interviewing has become a prevalent method for employers to assess candidates beyond traditional qualifications. This approach focuses on understanding your past behavior as a predictor of future performance. Instead of hypothetical questions, you’ll be asked to provide specific examples of how you handled situations in previous roles.
The core principle behind behavioral interviewing is that past actions are the most reliable indicator of future behavior. Interviewers identify key skills and competencies required for the job and craft questions designed to reveal how you’ve demonstrated those skills in the past. A typical question structure involves exploring a specific situation, the actions you took, and the resulting outcome.
For example, instead of asking, “How would you handle multiple competing priorities?” an interviewer might ask, “Tell me about a time you had multiple urgent tasks. How did you prioritize, and what was the result?” The first question elicits a hypothetical response, while the second requires you to draw from real-world experience.
To prepare for behavioral interviews, begin with standard interview preparation: research the company, its financials, products, and culture. Review their website and recent news. If you know the hiring manager’s name, search for their publications or articles to understand their professional background.
For the behavioral aspect, carefully analyze the job description and identify the key skills and qualities the employer seeks. Then, brainstorm specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate those skills. Structure your responses using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Clearly describe the context, your responsibility, the actions you took, and the measurable outcome. Practice articulating these stories concisely and confidently.
Utilize online resources to find common behavioral interview questions and practice your answers. Focus on providing specific, detailed examples rather than generalized statements. Strive for a balance between providing enough context and avoiding unnecessary rambling.
Remember, interviewers are looking for concrete evidence of your capabilities. By preparing thoroughly and using the STAR method, you can effectively showcase your skills and increase your chances of success in a behavioral interview.