What is a behavioral job interview and how to get it right
Careers advice, Interview

What is a behavioral job interview and how to get it right

Behavioral questions are very different from traditional job-related ones. Some tips to get it right and become fully aware and prepared for such type of conversations.

Did you ever have a behavioural job interview without perceiving it as such, because you were unfamiliar with the technique and the questions asked by the interviewer? During your interviewing phase, you may well have experienced this type of model without knowing  it.

We want to share with you the best tips for recognizing and preparing yourself for this type of conversation, and getting it right.

The HR person or your prospective employer will likely ask you some very specific behavioural questions, which are very different from traditional job-related questions.  They will probably concern:

 

  1. Your ability to work with colleagues and be part of a team
  2. Time management
  3. Professionalism and client-oriented skills
  4. Flexibility
  5. Aspirations and values

 

Here are some of  the things you might be asked in relation to the above:

Tell me about a time you had to work closely with someone whose personality or work style clashed with yours.

Tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple responsibilities. How did you handle that?

We all have to deal with difficult customers from time to time. Tell me about a challenging client-facing situation and how you handled it.

Sometimes we have an all-hands-on-deck situation that may require everyone to work extra hours. How would you handle that?

Give me an example of how you set goals for yourself.

 

It is quite normal to feel caught off guard by behaviour-based questions, especially when the conversation starts with: “Tell me about that time when…”. That’s why you should be fully prepared when you are asked these questions.

For this type of interview, you should follow these useful tips:

 

  • Do your homework and thoroughly research the company beforehand
  • If you are having a hard time remembering all your professional situations, write some of the most significant ones down, and try to describe them clearly
  • Tell your story, but be concise
  • Listen carefully, in order to fully understand the questions
  • Be confident and true to yourself
  • Highlight the positive professional situations you’ve experienced

 

Jobrapido is a great source of advice on how  to prepare for an interview. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more, expand your knowledge and find your dream job.