In a tech interview, behavioural questions are as critical as technical ones. They provide valuable insight into your professional character and how you handle real-world situations. Excelling in this aspect demands storytelling with structure and purpose. Let's dive deeper into how to turn your experiences into compelling narratives that impress interviewers.
1. Embrace the STAR Technique:
- Situation: Provide a concise and relatable description of the scenario you faced.
- Task: Clearly outline the challenge you tackled and your specific responsibilities.
- Action: Delve into your actions, being explicit about your contribution, not the team's.
- Result: Conclude with the outcome, including what you achieved and learned, and, if applicable, quantify the impact.
2. Curate Your Stories:
- Relevant Experiences: Choose stories that align with the job role and company culture.
- Diverse Examples: Prepare various scenarios highlighting various skills and competencies.
3. Practice Articulation:
- Clarity and Pace: Practice telling your stories clearly and at a natural pace to avoid rushing or rambling.
- Non-Verbal Cues: Be mindful of body language. Maintain eye contact and use hand gestures to emphasise points.
4. Tailor to the Role:
- Job Description Keywords: Use the job description to identify the competencies and tailor your stories to reflect these qualities.
- Tech-Specific Situations: Highlight experiences that showcase your technical skills and how they've contributed to team success.
5. Reflect Emotional Intelligence:
- Challenges and Growth: Share stories that reflect your growth from challenges and what they taught you about yourself.
- Team Dynamics: Discuss times you've navigated team dynamics or conflict, showcasing leadership and empathy.
6. Show Problem-Solving in Action:
- Complex Projects: Narrate instances where you solved complex problems or innovated to improve processes.
- Adaptability: Include examples of how you adapted to changes or unforeseen circumstances.
7. Prepare for Common Questions:
- Common Themes: Prepare for frequently asked questions like dealing with tight deadlines, handling conflict, or learning from failure.
- Cultural Fit: Have anecdotes demonstrating your alignment with the company's values and culture.
8. Cultivate Authenticity:
- Genuine Responses: Be authentic. Reciting a memorised answer can come off as insincere.
- Self-Awareness: Acknowledge areas for growth. Being self-critical can show maturity and a willingness to learn.
Behavioural interviews are your opportunity to bring your professional journey to life. They enable you to showcase what you've done, who you are, and how you approach work. By strategically crafting your stories and practising your delivery, you can leave a lasting impression that surpasses your technical skills, resonating with the core of the company's ethos.
Share this article
