by Wayne Ripley - Oct 2, 2009
Behavioral Interviewing:- began around 20 years ago.
- traditional interviewing is only 4% effective vs. 45%.
- based on core competencies.
- focused on what makes this person successful for this position.
Clues to indicate a Behavioral Interview:
- you hear the phrase, "Give me an example of ..."
- there is a panel interview.
- not executed over the phone.
Review the job description first, to pick out the competencies they are looking for.
Before answering any question, think! Take 5-10 sec to recall the best possible example. If necessary, bring notes with your responses.
If you can't immediately recall an answer you can ask to come back to this question later. If you have to do this more than once, you are probably not a good match for the position.
Structure your answers using the STAR method:
- Situation
- Tasks (approach)
- Action (what did you do?)
- Results (give an example with a positive outcome)
Write these out ahead of time and memorize 5 or 6 examples. You can refer to your resume if there are examples shown there.
Panel Interviews generally give better results and are more comprehensive.
During the interview:
- give examples within the last 2-3 years.
- have up to 2 examples for each core competency.
- ask questions to the interviewee to clarify.
- if you cannot recall a business example, give a personal experience.
- have at least 2-3 questions for the company.
Scoring is generally 0-4 for 5 questions. They generally don't hire anyone below a 3.0 score.
- not answering the question (0)
- below expectations (1-2)
- meets expectations (3)
- exceeds expectations (4)
What to bring:
- no phone, computer, or briefcase.
- business folder, 5-6 questions written out, a notepad, and pen.
- multiple copies of references, in case they ask.
The list of references (with their permission prior) should include:
- name
- company
- address and phone
- relationship to you
You get a favorable impression with a company when researching them ahead of time.
Don't use a speaker phone for a phone interview. It's ok to postpone to a later time if you're busy or in a noisy environment.
Try to just stick to the question. Don't give extra ammunition that will hurt you.
Speaker bio: Wayne has been with Right Management for the past 8 years, and with a Fortune 50 for 20 years prior to that.