Expect to encounter this interview technique —commonly utilized by employers. “Behavioral” questions are designed to probe an applicant’s past behavior in work situations, on the premise that the best predictor of future performance is past performance.
To prepare, think in terms of three or four challenging or problem situations, how you assessed the situation including perspectives you considered to effectively address it, actions you took to resolve or improve it, and the positive results of your efforts. Be specific and logical when presenting this information to the employer and present it so that it illustrates the context of the situation, as well as your approach to assessing, deciding, and taking initiative upon an appropriate course of action.
Complete the following exercise to help you formulate ideas on the qualifications you possess, and how you should present these qualifications in response to behavioral interview questions.
Following are skills employers generally look for, and behavioral questions designed to allow the employer to assess whether or not you possess that particular skill.