Answering these questions is usually the worst part of an interview, but once you know
how, you'll be able to do this easily. These are questions that you’ll need to provide examples for e.g "tell us about a time when" or "give us an example of".
To avoid any of these situations, we recommend using the S.T.A.R method (Situation, Task, Action, Result (or outcome) when structuring your answers. By using this method, you should find that your response stays relevant to the question and contains just the right amount of detail.
Here are just a few examples of behavioural based questions, but there are literally thousands that could be used.
Tell us about a time when you dealt with a difficult customer or client?
Tell us about a time when you had to use your communication skills to get across your point of view or “sell” an idea
How do you build relationships with new staff in your team or company and can you give us an example?
Tell us about a time when you wanted to introduce a new system or process and your colleagues didn’t agree with it
Describe a time when you had to change your approach to a task/project
Give us an example of when you led a team to a successful outcome
Tell us about a time when you felt you'd failed on a particular task or project
Give us an example of when you were under pressure to meet a tight deadline
Tell us about a time when you disagreed with your manager or a colleague
Tell us about a time when you had multiple priorities and how you handled it
How do I know which ones I'll get asked? You'll never know for sure, but if you look to the skills and experience required for the role, it should provide some clues. For example, if you're going to be part of a team, it's likely you'll get asked a question relating to your prior team work. If you're applying for a role where communication is critical, then you'll almost certainly get a question asking for an example around your previous communication skills.
Where do I get my examples from?
Go back over all your roles and see if there are relevant examples you could use from any of them. If you're just starting out, think about examples from University/College/School/Clubs/Groups or voluntary work. Examples don't have to be high level - interviewers just want to see how you answer the question and how you reacted in the example you provide.
Remember - preparation and practice are your friends! It's easy for your mind to go blank or to start reeling off all sorts of irrelevant information, so it's definitely worth taking some time to put together examples and then try and role play some questions with a friend.
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