Top behavioral interview questions are commonly used by employers to assess a candidate’s past behavior and performance, in certain situations. These common behavioral interview questions focus on how a candidate handled specific situations in the past and provide insight into their potential future behavior in the workplace.
In this article, we will explore some common behavioral interview questions alongside some behavioral interview question examples and provide tips for successfully answering them.
The HR Digest’s Behavioral Interview Questions List
Our Behavioral Interview Questions List is a comprehensive guide that offers insightful and thought-provoking questions designed to help organizations identify top talent during the recruitment process. By incorporating behavioral interview questions into the hiring process, organizations can make more informed and data-driven decisions about potential hires, leading to a more successful and productive workforce.
1. Tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem.
This is a top behavioral interview question that assesses a candidate’s problem-solving skills. The interviewer wants to know how the candidate approached a difficult situation and what steps they took to solve the problem. To answer this question, the candidate should describe the situation, the specific problem, and the steps they took to solve it. They should also explain the outcome and what they learned from the experience.
2. Describe a time when you had to work under pressure.
Another common behavioral interview question evaluates a candidate’s ability to work under pressure and handle stress. The interviewer wants to know how the candidate handles difficult situations and if they can remain calm and focused. To answer this question, the candidate should describe the situation, the specific pressures they faced, and how they managed to remain focused and productive. They should also explain the outcome and what they learned from the experience.
3. Can you tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new situation?
This behavioral interview question example assesses a candidate’s adaptability and flexibility. The interviewer wants to know how the candidate responds to change and if they can adapt to new situations quickly. To answer this question, the candidate should describe the situation, the specific changes they faced, and how they adapted to the new situation. They should also explain the outcome and what they learned from the experience.
4. Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult person.
This is one of the top behavioral interview questions to ask. It evaluates a candidate’s interpersonal skills and ability to handle difficult situations. The interviewer wants to know how the candidate handles conflict and if they can work effectively with others. To answer this question, the candidate should describe the situation, the specific challenges they faced, and how they worked with the difficult person. They should also explain the outcome and what they learned from the experience.
5. Can you give me an example of a time when you had to take initiative?
Another common behavioral interview question to ask is about a candidate’s ability to take charge and lead when necessary. The interviewer wants to know if the candidate is self-motivated and proactive. To answer this question, the candidate should describe the situation, the specific actions they took, and the outcome. They should also explain what they learned from the experience.
Tips for Successfully Answering Behavioral Interview Questions List
We have compiled tips and strategies to help candidates prepare for and answer behavioral interview questions examples confidently and effectively. They include:
- Use the STAR method to structure your answers: STAR stands for situation, task, action, and result. This method helps you provide a clear and structured answer to the question.
- Be specific and provide concrete examples: Use specific examples from your past experiences to support your answers.
- Highlight your skills and strengths: Use the opportunity to showcase your skills and strengths that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
- Stay positive and professional: Focus on the positive outcome and what you learned from the experience. Avoid speaking negatively about previous employers or colleagues.
- Practice before the interview: Prepare by practicing your answers to common behavioral interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you feel more confident and prepared during the actual interview.
Top Behavioral Interview Questions for Your Next Interview
The pros of behavioral interview questions are of interest to employers. By understanding common behavioral interview questions and following these tips for success, you can effectively showcase your skills and strengths during the interview process.