What are behavioral questions in an interview?

Behavioral Interview Technique

A behavioral-based interviewing technique is becoming more commonly used by companies to screen candidates.

Behavioral interviewing uses situational questions in an interview and is based on the theory that the most accurate predictor of future performance is past performance in similar situations.

Given below are some common types of behavioral interview questions.

As you read each of these questions, we recommend that you develop written responses to each question that you review prior to your interview.

If you haven’t taken the time to think of appropriate examples prior to your interview, situational interview questions can catch you off guard and make you look ill prepared for your interview.

Another benefit of developing responses to the behavioral questions given below is that doing so can often trigger ideas for accomplishments to add to your resume.

Behavioral or Situational Interview Questions

1. Tell me about a situation where you had to overcome a major obstacle to achieve goals.

2. Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and created a plan to handle those problems.

3. Describe a situation where you had to sell your idea to your manager or senior management.

4. Tell me about a time when you analyzed information and made a recommendation.

5. Describe an important decision you have made regarding a task or project at work. What factors influenced your decision?

6. Tell me about a time you helped get a team back on track to meet its objectives.

7. Give me examples of projects/tasks you initiated on your own.

8. Tell me about a project you worked on that resulted in improving processes or performance.

9. Tell me about a time you found a better way to do something.

10. Tell me about a time you balanced multiple projects successfully.

11. Tell me about a time you worked well under pressure.

12. Tell me about a project you delegated successfully.

13. Tell me about a time you dealt with an irate customer.

14. Tell me about a situation in which you had to adapt to changes over which you had no control.

15. Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty to get the job done.

To ace your interview, take some time to think of appropriate answers to these questions prior to your interview.