Perhaps you haven’t noticed but there are a number of interviewes who use the S-T-A-R interviewing technique when evaluating a potential candidate. It is a tool that iams to determine cause and effect, in this case, behavior and results. Before reaching the job interview, it’s good to be aware of this method and be prepared with your own answers.
S - Situation. you will be asked to recall a particular event in your life. For example, the interviewer may ask you to remember a time when you were faced with a short deadline.
T - Task. Then try to recall what was the assignment given. Let’s say, you had to finish a term paper in college and would have failed the course if you did’nt submit on time.
A - Action. In a truthful fashion, you would have to relax what you did in oreder to accomplish the task. “I orgganized my bibliography methodically so it shortened the time needed to do the source notes.” or ” I crammed and burned the midnight oil.” are possible answers. These responses give the interviewer and clue about your personality and work habits.
R - Result. Finally, you mention what happened after the task and action taken. “I got an A+” or “I made it just in time!” are typical responses. Always remember that final results do not always have to be perfect or extraordinary. You can also gain something from a failed experience. “I realized that cramming wasn’t the ideal way to mmet a deadline. I have since organized my worked habits taht eventually earned me some recognition in class.”
It would be a good idea to prepare your responses before the job interview (i.e. in case some one asks)) and think of examples that actually provide a positive and realisitc snapshot of your background and experience. While it is a natural tendency to highlight your best angle, it is just as important to portray an authentic representation of yourself. After all, you wouldn’t want to be offered a job that to your mind doesn’t even come close to your actual inclinations.
