5 Ways to Answer Behavioral Interview Questions Using the STAR Method
Step 1:
Begin by explaining a situation from a prior company or a relevant event with the proper context for the interviewer to evaluate your abilities.
Step 2:
Next, go into the task that establishes the objectives of the project and your specific role in that situation.
Step 3:
After giving the interviewer some background information, describe the action you took to complete the task successfully.
Step 4:
Then, bring it home by presenting the result based on your actions and what you took away from the experience. To add credibility to your story, include quantitative data.
5 Behavioral Interview Questions to Know
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the next stage of the job-search process: the big interview. Now is the time to prepare and be ready to confidently present your skills and qualifications to the employer. When it comes to answering behavioral interview questions, don’t sweat. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to nail this stage of the interview.
S
T
A
SITUATION
Disclose details of the
specific event
TASK
Explain your responsibility
in that situation
ACTION
Describe how you accomplished
the task
RESULT
Outline the impact of
your actions
the star method
SITUATION
During project testing, I occasionally don’t elaborate enough on why a particular approach will have a low likelihood of success to junior data scientists on my team.
RESULT
SITUATION
We all dread this question, and your response can be the differentiator of whether you make it to the next interview round. It’s important not to let yourself get tripped up when discussing your flaws. The best way to approach this question is to outline a minor weakness that won’t interfere with the job at hand and that you are already making strides toward improving.
1. What is your greatest weakness?
R
TASK
ACTION
SAMPLE ANSWER:
As a senior data scientist, I am tasked with mentoring my direct reports and communicating effectively to avoid pitfalls during projects.
TASK
To strengthen my abilities, I started taking a course on “Giving Helpful Feedback” from Coursera to expand my leadership skills and help those under me grow their expertise.
ACTION
By doing this, I was able to build more formidable relationships with my team and achieve superior business results.
RESULT
SAMPLE ANSWER:
This question is typically used as a follow-up after evaluating your weakness. During this time, the interviewer is assessing your problem-solving skills and how you handle stress. So, choose wisely. Instead of focusing on how you were fazed by the demanding nature of a previous role, respond with a specific project that not only describes an obstacle but also how you handled it.
2. What is the biggest challenge you have faced, and what steps did you take to overcome it?
The executives at my last company wanted to make better data-driven decisions.
SITUATION
I was directed to streamline a dozen reports for our monthly
executive briefing.
TASK
I used data visualization tools to create a real-time comprehensive, automated dashboard.
ACTION
My approach saved the team over 25 hours monthly, helping them focus on more strategic projects.
RESULT
RESULT
ACTION
TASK
SITUATION
SAMPLE ANSWER:
Some form of this question almost always comes up, so preparation is key. The goal of this question is to explain how you strategically solved something to deliver excellent results. Identify three to five power stories to use as an example of past experiences that you can tailor to the specific behavioral question asked. These stories should cover the top attributes highlighted in your elevator pitch as well as transferrable skills for the role you’re interviewing for. Remember to keep it short and to the point. Consider different examples to a question like, “Tell me a time when you had to deal with a tight timeline and how you exceeded expectations.”
RESULT
ACTION
TASK
SITUATION
3. ‘Tell me a time…’
The previous organization I worked in required an update to their learning management system due to new regulations on data privacy.
SITUATION
My manager presented me with a strict deadline to complete the software update in less than 48 hours to ensure we remained compliant.
TASK
I worked with key stakeholders to update the user interface on all systems with information on data tracking, what the data is used for and options for users to remove their data.
ACTION
I was able to update all the systems before the deadline and came in under budget by 15%.
RESULT
SAMPLE ANSWER:
This isn’t your chance to tell an employer about how you’re looking for a salary bump or that you can’t stand your current company. Potential employers seek candidates who are aligned with their organization via shared values, aspirations and relevant experience. Stick to the facts and write down a few top reasons based on your research of why your background matches up with the expected job scope and responsibilities.
4. Why do you think you are a good fit for this position?
I am a performance-driven inbound marketing professional with a demonstrated history in creating successful campaigns.
SITUATION
For example, my previous role focused on optimizing lead generation and lead nurturing processes through high quality and targeted content.
TASK
I created and executed email marketing, website updates and social media campaigns to grow customer acquisition.
ACTION
These multi-channel marketing campaigns resulted in tripled conversion rates. I believe my proficiency in converting qualified leads into customers would make me an asset to your organization, and I would be eager to continue growing my expertise alongside your highly skilled team.
RESULT
SAMPLE ANSWER:
Make a list of specific achievements you have accomplished and then narrow it down to relevant examples for your desired role. Don’t be afraid to share an example that gives the interviewer insight into who you are outside of work. Consider providing examples from previous jobs, promotions, academics, sports, philanthropy and goals obtained through passion and hard work. If you choose to explain a personal accomplishment, tie it back to how it can be applied in that particular company.
5. What accomplishment are you most proud of,
and why?
RESULT
TASK
SITUATION
At my last company, I noticed there was no formal development program to help my peers who were promoted to a supervisor role for the first time.
SITUATION
I spoke to my manager about starting a leadership boot camp, and he told me to challenge my thinking and come up with a strategy to implement it.
TASK
After collaborating with my leader and business partners, I was able to formulate a curriculum for a leadership development track, teaching my peers fundamental leadership skills and how to manage their teams efficiently.
ACTION
I was able to successfully bring the program to life, allowing me to channel my passion for leadership while serving the community. Given the opportunity as your firm’s organizational development manager, I would love to carry the invaluable skills I learned to help future leaders at your organization.
RESULT
Mastering the rest of the interview process
Now that you are prepared for the behavioral round, it’s time to tackle the rest of the interview process. From tips on auditing your digital footprint to preparing for video interviews and situational interview questions, we are here to help you with every step of your journey. Visit our Job Search Guide for additional tips and tricks.
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to Land a Job
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RESULT
ACTION
TASK
SITUATION
ACTION
elevator pitch
How Does the STAR Method Help You Prepare for
Behavioral Interview Questions?
Here are five common STAR interview questions you should know with tips on how to answer them properly. Let’s get started!
What Are Behavioral Interview Questions?
Interviewers often ask questions to learn your competencies and how you respond in specific situations. These types of questions are commonly referred to as behavioral interview questions. They allow employers to get a glimpse of how you will perform at their company and if you’re a good fit for the role.
Why Do Employers Ask Behavioral Interview Questions?
Hiring managers often find by asking these types of questions, they can easily identify several key components of the candidate while also recognizing cues of future behavior at the company. Your answers can greatly impact the way an employer sees how you would fit in at the company.
Employers want to know:
• How you handle situations in various scenarios
• Your work style from the past since it can help predict your future performance
• If you have effective problem-solving skills
• Ways you cope with stress and prioritize tasks
Preparing for behavioral interview questions is critical for helping you achieve success during a job interview. During this process, it’s important to portray yourself in the best light by giving a vivid picture of what the interviewer can expect if they hire you. That’s where the STAR method comes in.
Is the STAR Method Effective?
Short answer, yes. This interview technique is widely known and proven to be successful to job seekers preparing for their next interview.
How does it work? The STAR method can help you clearly answer the behavioral questions you may be asked while staying on point. Follow each part of this technique to keep your answers concise and focused on the questions posed by the hiring manager.
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PUBLISHED JANUARY 2024
video interviews
A career at Kforce gives you the opportunity to experience, learn and grow. We help you achieve lasting success with structured onboarding, training, mentorship and continuous development programs.
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Learn More
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situational interview questions
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Interviewers often ask questions to learn your competencies and how you respond in specific situations. These types of questions are commonly referred to as behavioral interview questions. They allow employers to get a glimpse of how you will perform at their company and if you’re a good fit for the role.
What Are Behavioral Interview Questions?
Hiring managers often find by asking these types of questions, they can easily identify several key components of the candidate while also recognizing cues of future behavior at the company. Your answers can greatly impact the way an employer sees how you would fit in at the company.
Employers want to know:
• How you handle situations in various scenarios
• Your work style from the past since it can help predict your future performance
• If you have effective problem-solving skills
• Ways you cope with stress and prioritize tasks
Preparing for behavioral interview questions is critical for helping you achieve success during a job interview. During this process, it’s important to portray yourself in the best light by giving a vivid picture of what the interviewer can expect if they hire you. That’s where the STAR method comes in.
Why Do Employers
Ask Behavioral
Interview Questions?
Short answer, yes. This interview technique is widely known and proven to be successful to job seekers preparing for their next interview.
How does it work? The STAR method can help you clearly answer the behavioral questions you may be asked while staying on point. Follow each part of this technique to keep your answers concise and focused on the questions posed by the hiring manager.
Short answer, yes. This interview technique is widely known and proven to be successful to job seekers preparing for their next interview.
How does it work? The STAR method can help you clearly answer the behavioral questions you may be asked while staying on point. Follow each part of this technique to keep your answers concise and focused on the questions posed by the hiring manager.
Is the STAR
Method Effective?
Here are five common STAR interview questions you should know with tips on how to answer them properly. Let’s get started!
How Does the STAR Method Help You Prepare for Behavioral Interview Questions?
Situation
During project testing, I occasionally don’t elaborate enough on why a particular approach will have a low likelihood of success to junior data scientists on my team.
Task
As a senior data scientist, I am tasked with mentoring my direct reports and communicating effectively to avoid pitfalls during projects.
Action
To strengthen my abilities, I started taking a course on “Giving Helpful Feedback” from Coursera to expand my leadership skills and help those under me grow their expertise.
Result
By doing this, I was able to build more formidable relationships with my team and achieve superior business results.
Here are five common STAR interview questions you should know with tips on how to answer them properly. Let’s get started!
We all dread this question, and your response can be the differentiator of whether you make it to the next interview round. It’s important not to let yourself get tripped up when discussing your flaws. The best way to approach this question is to outline a minor weakness that won’t interfere with the job at hand and that you are already making strides toward improving.
Situation
During project testing, I occasionally don’t elaborate enough on why a particular approach will have a low likelihood of success to junior data scientists on my team.
Task
As a senior data scientist, I am tasked with mentoring my direct reports and communicating effectively to avoid pitfalls during projects.
Action
To strengthen my abilities, I started taking a course on “Giving Helpful Feedback” from Coursera to expand my leadership skills and help those under me grow their expertise.
Result
By doing this, I was able to build more formidable relationships with my team and achieve superior business results.
SAMPLE ANSWER:
1. What is your greatest weakness?
Learn More
Our Job Search Guide is Filled with Expert Advice You Need to Land a Job
This question is typically used as a follow-up after evaluating your weakness. During this time, the interviewer is assessing your problem-solving skills and how you handle stress. So, choose wisely. Instead of focusing on how you were fazed by the demanding nature of a previous role, respond with a specific project that not only describes an obstacle but also how you handled it.
Situation
The executives at my last company wanted to make better data-driven decisions.
Task
I was directed to streamline a dozen reports for our monthly executive briefing.
Action
I used data visualization tools to create a real-time comprehensive, automated dashboard.
Result
My approach saved the team over 25 hours monthly, helping them focus on more strategic projects.
SAMPLE ANSWER:
2. What is the biggest challenge you have faced, and what steps did you take to overcome it?
This question is typically used as a follow-up after evaluating your weakness. During this time, the interviewer is assessing your problem-solving skills and how you handle stress. So, choose wisely. Instead of focusing on how you were fazed by the demanding nature of a previous role, respond with a specific project that not only describes an obstacle but also how you handled it.
Situation
The executives at my last company wanted to make better data-driven decisions.
Task
I was directed to streamline a dozen reports for our monthly executive briefing.
Action
I used data visualization tools to create a real-time comprehensive, automated dashboard.
Result
My approach saved the team over 25 hours monthly, helping them focus on more strategic projects.
SAMPLE ANSWER:
2. What is the biggest challenge you have faced, and what steps did you take to overcome it?
A career at Kforce gives you the opportunity to experience, learn and grow. We help you achieve lasting success with structured onboarding, training, mentorship and continuous development programs.
Careers at Kforce
Learn More
This isn’t your chance to tell an employer about how you’re looking for a salary bump or that you can’t stand your current company. Potential employers seek candidates who are aligned with their organization via shared values, aspirations and relevant experience. Stick to the facts and write down a few top reasons based on your research of why your background matches up with the expected job scope and responsibilities.
Situation
I am a performance-driven inbound marketing professional with a demonstrated history in creating successful campaigns.
Task
For example, my previous role focused on optimizing lead generation and lead nurturing processes through high quality and targeted content.
Action
I created and executed email marketing, website updates and social media campaigns to grow customer acquisition.
Result
These multi-channel marketing campaigns resulted in tripled conversion rates. I believe my proficiency in converting qualified leads into customers would make me an asset to your organization, and I would be eager to continue growing my expertise alongside your highly skilled team.
SAMPLE ANSWER:
4. Why do you think you are a good fit for this position?
Make a list of specific achievements you have accomplished and then narrow it down to relevant examples for your desired role. Don’t be afraid to share an example that gives the interviewer insight into who you are outside of work. Consider providing examples from previous jobs, promotions, academics, sports, philanthropy and goals obtained through passion and hard work. If you choose to explain a personal accomplishment, tie it back to how it can be applied in that particular company.
5. What accomplishment are you most proud of, and why?
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