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The interview
Certainly, the core of any interview consists of the questions you will be asked during the conversation. Employers are evaluating both the content of your responses as well your ability to confidently communicate your message. While it may be a popular strategy, reviewing a long list of potential interview questions and then attempting to create (and then memorize) your best response is not the ideal way to prepare. Instead, as a candidate you are better off thinking about the types of questions that you may be asked and then determining the types of experiences you want to communicate. Most interview questions can be divided into three categories.
Traditional questions Accordion Closed
Any interview will certainly have a variety of traditional questions that focus on topics such as your career goals, your thoughts on topics like leadership and teamwork, and your work ethic. The key in answering these questions effectively is simply to respond directly and honestly. In all likelihood, there is no “right” answer to these questions. Instead, employers are most interested in your overall work style and ability to communicate.
Technical questions Accordion Closed
Depending on the job, employers will want to know if you have the specific skills that are required to complete certain job tasks. In these situations, you may be asked some technical questions. These questions are usually not designed to be easy and getting the “right” response, while preferable, may not be crucial. When responding to a technical questions, employers are evaluating your logic in solving a problem. Therefore, walk the interviewer through your thought process in arriving at your response.
Behavioral questions Accordion Closed
Through this popular interview format, interviewers want to learn about your potential future success through your past behavior. The key in answering a behavioral question is to accurately describe a situation from your past that displays a certain trait such as leadership, team work, or goal-setting. Behavioral questions should never be answered with your general thoughts or theory on a topic. Employers are looking for you to describe an actual and specific past experience using the STAR technique. This technique allows you to break your experiences down into specific components and is a great way to prepare for behavioral questions. To answer questions using the STAR technique just keep in mind the following:
S– Describe the initial Situation and any relevant background information
T– Explain the Task that you set out to accomplish
A– Detail the Action(s) you took to complete the task
R– Highlight the positive Result(s) and major learning outcomes from the experience
The best way to prepare for a behavior interview question is to consider the possible topics that an employer may bring up during the interview. Review the Behavioral Interview worksheet to help you prepare.
Learn more
For more in-depth information, explore the following Career Steps online lessons:
Interview skills: Understanding and responding to behavioral interview questions
Interview skills: Practicing interview responses