What are behavioural based questions? These are a type of interview question that focuses on past behavior to predict future performance. Instead of asking hypothetical questions about what you might do in a given situation, behavioral questions require you to provide specific examples from your past experiences. By understanding how you’ve handled similar situations before, interviewers can gain insight into your work ethic, problem-solving skills, and how you handle challenges. In this article, we will explore the purpose of these questions, how to answer them effectively, and why they are an essential part of the interview process.
The purpose of behavioural based questions is to assess a candidate’s soft skills, such as teamwork, leadership, adaptability, and communication. These questions often start with phrases like “Tell me about a time when…” or “Describe a situation where…” and are designed to uncover specific behaviors that demonstrate your ability to handle various situations effectively. Here are some common types of behavioral questions:
1.
Leadership and initiative:
– Tell me about a time when you had to motivate a team to meet a challenging deadline.
– Describe a situation where you took the initiative to improve a process or procedure.
2.
Problem-solving and critical thinking:
– Give an example of a time when you had to solve a complex problem without clear guidance.
– Describe a situation where you had to make a decision with limited information.
3.
Teamwork and collaboration:
– Can you share an experience where you worked effectively with a team to achieve a common goal?
– Describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a team member.
4.
Adaptability and change management:
– Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new role or a significant change in your work environment.
– Describe a situation where you successfully managed a project that required a quick change in direction.
5.
Communication and interpersonal skills:
– Give an example of a time when you had to explain a complex concept to a non-technical audience.
– Describe a situation where you had to negotiate a challenging situation with a client or colleague.
To answer these questions effectively, follow these tips:
1.
Use the STAR method: Structure your answer using the Situation, Task, Action, and Result formula. This helps you provide a clear, concise, and structured response.
2.
Focus on your achievements: Emphasize the positive outcomes of your past experiences, rather than just the actions you took.
3.
Be honest and specific: Use real-life examples from your past to illustrate your skills and competencies.
4.
Practice your answers: Prepare and practice your responses to common behavioral questions before the interview.
5.
Stay positive: Focus on your strengths and how you’ve overcome challenges, rather than dwelling on negative experiences.
In conclusion, behavioural based questions are an essential part of the interview process, as they help interviewers assess your soft skills and predict your future performance. By understanding the purpose of these questions and following the tips for answering them effectively, you can make a strong impression during your interview and increase your chances of landing the job.
