What To Do In A Behavior-Based Interviews

Behavior-based interviewing has been around for over 25 years and has begun to shed light on research showing that past performance is a strong predictor of future performance. Our phone, virtual, and face-to-face interview processes are behavior based, in which questions are structured to extract specific examples and experiences from you to help determine how you may take action in similar situations you might face on the job.

Interview Preparation

• Research the behavior-based interviewing style, learn the specifics, and practice a mock interview with a friend or family member.
• Think of specific examples from past experiences (work, school, etc.) that highlight your individual skills.
• Be prepared for the interviewer to ask follow-up questions to probe deeper into each of your examples.

Answering Behavior-Based Questions

• Think of behavior-based interviewing as storytelling. Explain the situation, behavior, and outcome for each example you provide.
• Focus on most recent examples from other jobs and professional experience, contract or consulting work, apprenticeships, volunteer work, or otherwise.
• Be confident in what you’ve done, stick to the facts, and focus on articulating your specific behaviors within each situation.

During the Interview

• Take your time. It’s better to take a moment to breathe and think of a good example than to answer too quickly with a poor one.
• Err on the side of giving more details than you think you need to describe each situation and behaviors.
• Don’t be afraid to take credit—define your role in the group/team when explaining a situation and use “I”, not “we”.

After the Interview Questions

• Expect you’ll have some questions for us, too. But, don’t ask questions just to ask questions. Bring to us your curiosity so we can help confirm if we’re the right fit for you.