You will need to be able to prove to employers that you have the skills that they require. In applications and interviews, employers use competency questions to gain this information. The questions normally begin with phrases such as “tell me a time when….” Or “give me an example of…..” your answers will be used as evidence that you have what it takes.
It is therefore important to prepare for interviews and think about the competencies that employers may be looking for. You can normally find their values on their website, company information and through feedback on the web.
STAR Method
The STAR method of interviewing is used in many instances by employers. There are many variations regarding this, but they will all use the same methodology.
STAR stands for:
This way of answering the questions will help you become organised in your thought processes. Examples of the questions, broken down into competency groups, are as follows: –
Adaptability
Culture Fit
Collaboration
Initiative and Taking Ownership
Once you have found out what potential employers are looking for, rate yourself or ask someone close to you to give you feedback as follows: –
1= I do this very well. I am consistent and successful in it.
2= I am good at this. With some practise I can make it perfect.
3 = I am getting better, but still need to work on this a bit more.
4 = I am not particularly good at this – yet!
Below you will find links that you may find useful for further reading.
Indeed
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing
Indeed (team working)
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/teamwork-interview-questions
Total Jobs Link
https://www.totaljobs.com/advice/how-to-handle-competency-based-interview-questions
Michael Page
STAR Interview Technique Questions
Reproduced with thanks to Tracy Billingham HR Ltd