Navigating an interview can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and techniques, you can showcase your strengths and secure your dream job.
Here are some valuable tips and strategies to help you excel in your next interview.
The STAR Interview Technique
One of the most effective ways to answer behavioural interview questions is by using the STAR technique.
This method helps you structure your responses to highlight your skills and experiences clearly and concisely. Here's a breakdown of the STAR technique:
Situation: Describe the context within which you performed a task or faced a challenge at work. Be specific about the situation and provide enough detail to set the stage for your story.
Task: Explain the actual task or challenge that was involved. What was the goal you were working towards?
Action: Discuss the specific actions you took to address the task or challenge. Focus on what you did, how you did it, and why you took those steps.
Result: Share the outcomes of your actions. Highlight what you accomplished, any recognitions you received, and the overall impact of your efforts.
Example Question: "Can you give me an example of a time when you had to handle a difficult project?"
Answer Using STAR:
Situation: "In my previous role, we had a critical project with a tight deadline that involved multiple stakeholders."
Task: "I was tasked with coordinating the efforts of our team to ensure we met the deadline while maintaining high-quality standards."
Action: "I organised regular check-ins, delegated tasks based on individual strengths, and implemented a clear communication plan to keep everyone on the same page."
Result: "We successfully completed the project on time, exceeding client expectations and received positive feedback from both the client and senior management."
Good Questions to Ask at the End of an Interview
Asking thoughtful questions at the end of an interview can demonstrate your interest in the role and help you gather important information. Here are some good questions to consider:
"Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?" - This shows your interest in understanding what your role would look like on a daily basis.
"What are the most significant challenges facing your team right now?" - This question helps you understand the current hurdles and how you might contribute to overcoming them.
"How do you measure success in this role?" - This gives you insight into what the company values and how your performance will be evaluated.
"Can you describe the company culture?" - This helps you assess whether the company’s environment is a good fit for you.
"What are the next steps in the interview process?" - This shows your eagerness to move forward and keeps you informed about what to expect.
Questions to Avoid Asking
There are certain questions that might be better left unasked, especially in early interview stages:
"What does this company do?" - This suggests a lack of preparation. Always research the company beforehand.
"How much holiday do I get?" - Save questions about benefits and perks for later stages or once an offer is on the table.
"Did I get the job?" - This can come across as pushy. It's better to ask about next steps.
By preparing your answers using the STAR technique and asking insightful questions, you can leave a positive and lasting impression on your interviewers. Remember, an interview is not just about them evaluating you, but also about you assessing if the company and role are the right fit for you.
At TA we are always here to help. Feel free to reach out to our team with any questions, or if you need additional support or advice. We're committed to providing the assistance you need to succeed.
Good luck!