Behavior-Based Interview Tips

A behavior-based interview includes questions about your past actions.

Behavioral interviews for new employees focus on the past behavior and actions of the applicant. Rather than responding to questions such as "What would you do in this situation?" or "What is your biggest weakness?" a behavioral interviewer asks "Can you describe a situation in the past where you corrected a problem with a dissatisfied customer?". This type of interview allows the applicant to elaborate on his acquired skills and character traits that would be required for the position.

Analyze Required Skills

According to The College at Brockport: "Behavioral Interviewing," the first step in preparing for a behavioral interview is to analyze the job. Find out what skills and characteristics the employer is looking for. Next, the applicant should examine his own skills and qualifications and how they will fit in with what the company is looking for. Brainstorm past situations in which you demonstrated these skills.

Problem, Action, Result

The best way to answer behavioral interview questions is using the PAR method: Problem, Action, Result, according to the University of Wisconsin: "FAQs About Behavioral Interviews". In this technique, the applicant would describe a problem she faced, the action she took in response to that problem and the result of that action. This method is also known as the STAR method, according to Virginia Tech: "Behavioral interviewing." STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Describe the situation or task, the action taken and the results of that action.

Clarify Questions

When answering questions, it is important for the applicant to demonstrate the skills or behaviors the interviewer is looking for. Ask questions and get clarification if the interviewer's question is unclear.

Be Specific

Be specific and to the point when answering questions for a behavior-based interview. Keep answers focused on demonstrating your relevant experience and skills. According to the University of Wisconsin: "FAQs About Behavioral Interviews," it is best to quantify your impact whenever possible. For example, "The result of my actions decreased customer complaints by 15 percent."

References

• University of Wisconsin: "FAQs About Behavioral Interviews "
• The College at Brockport: "Behavioral Interviewing"
• Virginia Tech: "Behavioral interviewing"