Behavioral interviews are a type of interview where the interviewer asks questions about your past behavior in different situations to determine how you would behave in future situations. This type of interview is popular among employers during the hiring process. The most common mistake prospective employees make is not preparing adequately for a behavioral interview, resulting in poor responses that do not showcase their potential. Follow these tips to help you preparing for behavioral interview.

1. Research and Understand the Company's Core Values:

Before the interview, research the company's mission, goals, and values. Knowing the company's core values is essential as it will help you align your responses to their expectations. Study the company's website, social media platforms, and LinkedIn profiles, and take note of their activities and projects to determine how you can contribute to the team. The interviewer might ask behavioral questions that relate to your abilities to fit in and share their values, so knowing the company well can help you prepare accordingly.

2. Review and Understand Your Resume:

Be sure to bring a copy of your resume to the interview as you may be asked to refer to it during questioning. Familiarize yourself with your past experiences, including your education, past jobs, projects, and skills. Be prepared to articulate your achievements and highlights concisely. Review your resume and note the skills and achievements that are relevant to the position you are applying for, and highlight them in your responses during the interview.

3. Practice Responses with the STAR Method:

The STAR method is a strategy that helps to structure responses for behavioral interviews. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This framework organizes responses to provide a clear understanding of the situation, the actions you took to accomplish the task, and the result of your efforts. Practice your responses with the STAR method, particularly for common interview questions such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. This method not only helps you prepare potential responses but also helps you stay focused in your delivery.

4. Prepare Questions:

Like any other interview, you will be asked if you have any questions. Use this opportunity to ask insightful questions about the job, the company culture, your role, and expectations. Preparing questions ahead of time shows your willingness to learn more about the job, and it can set you apart from other candidates. Your questions should prove you're a forward-thinking employee who is already thinking about how to succeed at the company.

5. Dress Professionally and Arrive on Time:

Looking the part for an interview is essential. Dress professionally, arrive on time, and respect the interviewer's time. Check the location of the interview ahead of time to avoid getting lost or arriving late. Arriving on time shows that you value the interviewer's time and that you are dependable.

Conclusion:

Behavioral interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you will feel confident and better equipped to showcase your skills and potential. Take the time to research, practice, and prepare your responses effectively. Remember to dress appropriately, arrive on time, and ask insightful questions to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Best of luck in your next behavioral interview!