BEHAVIORAL - BASED QUESTIONS

Behavioral-based interviewing is becoming more and more popular among recruiters and hiring managers. Expect and be prepared for these hypothetical questions, and use the opportunity to inform the employer how you are able and willing to do the job.

You can typically recognize a behavioral based question because it will often begin with "What if you . . . ?" or "How would you handle . . . ?"

The best way to prepare for behavioral-based questions is to analyze the job description and know what skills are required. Then prepare short stories recapping situations from your work experience that demonstrate the required skills and work behavior.

Use the "S.T.A.R" formula to create your answer in a story format.

S = Situation
Describe a similar work situation from a former job

T=Task
Describe the task and challenge you faced

A=Action
Use action verbs (i.e. developed, initiated, performed, implemented) to describe what steps you took to overcome that task and challenge

R=Results
Finish your story with the positive results

Find the closest Career Center offering individual assistance to prepare you for your next interview.