Job interviews are intimidating, no matter how confident you feel. You may have already mastered the art of the elevator pitch and researched the company thoroughly, but you still may not be prepared to answer the more difficult questions. Enter behavioral interview questions; this type of questioning is designed to understand how an individual has responded in certain scenarios in order to ascertain what kind of employee they will be. Here’s what you need to know about behavioral interview questions.
What Are Behavioral Interview Questions?
Behavioral interview questions are questions that seek to determine how applicants responded to challenging situations in their past jobs or experiences. In other words, employers want to get an idea of how well applicants handle stress, difficult conversations, problem-solving, or any other challenge related to the job for which they are applying. These types of questions allow employers to gain insight into a potential hire’s skills, values, and motivations.
What Types of Questions Are Asked in Behavioral Interviews?
When it comes to behavioral interview questions, there are three main categories from which employers can choose: past experience, hypothetical situation, and team dynamics. With past experience questions, employers ask about specific examples from an applicant’s background that demonstrate their ability to succeed in this role. Hypothetical situation questions ask applicants how they would respond if placed in a given scenario related to their potential role. Team dynamics questions focus on understanding how an individual works best with others when collaborating on projects or tasks within the workplace.
How Should You Answer Behavioral Interview Questions?
When answering behavioral interview questions it is important that you take your time and thoughtfully consider your response before actually giving it. It is also wise to use the STAR method when responding; explain the Situation/Task that was presented; explain the Action you took; and then explain the Result achieved by completing that action. This method ensures that your answers are both clear and concise while still providing enough detail for the interviewer(s) to get a better understanding of your qualifications for this role. Additionally, don’t forget about body language! Be sure that your responses reflect enthusiasm for this position as well as confidence in yourself and what you bring to the table—this will help make a good impression on any employer!
Conclusion:
Behavioral interview questions can be intimidating because they require more thought than simple yes/no responses or explanations about why you would be great for this position. However, being prepared for these interviews can set you apart from other candidates and give employers greater insight into who you really are as an employee—which could ultimately lead them towards making an offer! So if you’re preparing for a job interview with behavioral interview questions involved, take some time beforehand to think through examples from your past experiences as well as hypothetical scenarios so that when those difficult questions come up during your conversation with hiring managers or recruiters ,you have thoughtful responses ready! Good luck!
