Can interviewers predict your future behavior? They may have a way of coming pretty close using behavioral interview questions! Learn how you can be prepared to make sure they predict something positive.
Job interviews are not most people’s idea of a good time. For some, it can be downright frightening.
One way to make your job interview less frightening is to be prepared for behavioral interview questions. Most people aren’t familiar with behavioral interviewing, but it’s what many interviewers use to compile their list of questions for prospective new employees.
Behavioral Interviewing
Preparing for your interview by anticipating behavioral interview questions will put you head and shoulders above most of your fellow interviewees by ensuring that you answer questions thoroughly. It will also make you better at:
- Cover letter writing
- Resume writing
- Making a good impression
Behavioral interviewing is based on the concept that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior. When someone who is practicing behavioral interviewing asks a question, it may sound something like: Tell me about a time when you had a problem with a co-worker. What was the problem and how did you solve it? This question begs a more thorough answer than, “I’m a team player.” It allows the interviewer to get a picture of how you actually handled a specific difficult situation.
Preparing for Behavioral Interview Questions
Before embarking on a job search, make a list of some instances in past jobs where you have been proud of your behavior. This could be a qualitative goal or accomplishment you made for the company. Maybe you increased sales or brought in more clients. It could be that a relationship you developed with a client greatly benefited the company. Perhaps you resolved a conflict with a co-worker in a constructive manner. Any example of how you handled a situation in a positive way or achieved a goal can go on the list.
Once you have a list of past behaviors you are proud of, you can use them in cover letters, as well as in resumes and interviews. When developing your cover letter or resume, highlight your past positive behavior.
Shorten your Job Search
It’s a good job search strategy to answer questions as if they are behavioral interview questions, even if they aren’t posed in that way. Simply offer examples of your past behavior to exemplify the skills and talents you have that make you valuable for the position.
Being in the know about behavioral interview questions will make you stand out to prospective employers, and could shorten your job search considerably. It’s a great tool for career growth!
Is your work situation uncertain or frustrating you? Are you without a job or wisely thinking a current furlough may be just the hidden gift to start exploring work you’re truly meant to do? Do you hate your job, but have no idea what to do instead? Attempting to navigate those waters without support is not fun (yes, I do know, but that’s another story). I’m excited to announce that I’ve created The Job I Love Toolkit, with all the resources you’ll need to finally clarify how to get paid to do you.TM To be the first to hear more details, join the VIP Wait List.
And if you know a friend or neighbor who could use hearing the advice in this article or needs The Job I Love Toolkit, please forward this to them.