Behavioral interviews are becoming increasingly popular during job searches, and for good reason. Companies want to ensure they are hiring the right person for the job, and one of the most effective ways to get to know a candidate and their abilities is through behavioral interviewing. This type of interview involves asking questions that require you to give specific examples of situations you’ve faced in the past and how you’ve handled them. To excel in a behavioral interview, preparation is key. In this article, we’ll provide tips and guidance on how to prepare for and successfully handle a behavioral interview.
1. Research the company and the role: A crucial first step to preparing for any job interview, but even more so for a behavioral interview, is to research the company and the role you’re applying for. Look at the company website, read up on recent news about the company or industry, and understand the specific responsibilities of the job you’re being considered for. Once you understand these things, you can better prepare to answer questions in a way that aligns with the company’s values and the role’s expectations.
2. Review and practice common behavioral questions: While it’s impossible to predict every single question you’ll be asked, there are some common behavioral questions that appear in most interviews. For example, “Tell me about a time you had to resolve a conflict with a coworker,” or “Give me an example of a time when a project did not go as planned and how you handled it.” Prepare to answer these types of questions as well as those that may be specific to the company and position.
3. Use the STAR method: When answering behavioral questions, it’s helpful to use the STAR method. This stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Start by describing the situation, then the task you needed to accomplish, followed by the action you took, and finally the result of your actions. This format helps you provide specific examples and highlights your problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
4. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer: Just as the interviewer will be asking you questions, it’s important to have some questions prepared to ask them. Think about the company culture, opportunities for professional development, and what success looks like in the role you’re applying for. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm and shows that you’ve done your homework.
5. Practice, practice, practice: One of the best ways to prepare for a behavioral interview is simply by practicing. Ask a friend or family member to conduct a mock interview with you using common behavioral questions. This will help you get comfortable answering questions in that format and gives you an opportunity to practice speaking confidently and clearly.
Conclusion: Behavioral interviews can be daunting, but with proper preparation and practice, you can make a great impression on your interviewer. Research the company and the role, practice common behavioral questions using the STAR method, and prepare questions of your own to ask. Remember, the goal of a behavioral interview is to get to know you and your abilities, so be sure to provide specific and relevant examples from your past experiences. Following these tips will help you feel confident and prepared for a successful behavioral interview.
