A behavioral interview asks job applicants to describe past experiences demonstrating their competencies for the position. The interviewer seeks to determine if the candidate possesses the needed skills through examples of how they were applied. To prepare, applicants research the job and company to understand the competencies sought, then prepare examples showing how they previously displayed these qualities. Sample behavioral interview questions ask candidates to provide instances where they used skills like problem-solving, goal-setting, conflict resolution, and delegation.
A behavioral interview asks job applicants to describe past experiences demonstrating their competencies for the position. The interviewer seeks to determine if the candidate possesses the needed skills through examples of how they were applied. To prepare, applicants research the job and company to understand the competencies sought, then prepare examples showing how they previously displayed these qualities. Sample behavioral interview questions ask candidates to provide instances where they used skills like problem-solving, goal-setting, conflict resolution, and delegation.
A behavioral interview is an employment interview during which a job applicant is
asked to demonstrate his or her knowledge, skills, and abilities, also known as competencies. The applicant must tell about specific experiences when he or she demonstrated these competencies. The purpose of a behavioral interview is to allow the interviewer to determine whether a candidate possesses the competencies to perform a particular job.
How to Prepare for a Behavioral Interview
1. Determine what competencies the employer is looking for:
o Read through the job description. o Research the company to learn more about it.
2. Come up with examples of how you've demonstrated those competencies on
past jobs.
Sample Questions
1. Describe a situation in which you were able to use persuasion to successfully
convince someone to see things your way. 2. Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills. 3. Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem. 4. Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it. 5. Tell me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence someone's opinion. 6. Tell me about a specific time when you were required to prioritize your tasks. 7. What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example. 8. Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead. 9. Give me an example of a time when you motivated others. 10. Tell me about a time when you delegated a project effectively. 11. Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem. 12. Tell me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.