01Research the Company

  • Before the interview, take the time to research the company thoroughly. Look for information about the company's mission, values, and culture. Familiarize yourself with their products or services, target market, and recent news or developments. This knowledge will not only impress the interviewer but also help you tailor your answers to align with the company's values and goals.
  • Explore the company's website, social media accounts, and any other available resources. Pay attention to their mission statement, corporate values, and any recent projects or achievements. This research will give you a better understanding of the company's priorities and allow you to speak confidently about how your skills and experiences align with their needs.
  • Additionally, research the position you are applying for. Review the job description and identify the key skills and qualities that the company is looking for. This will help you showcase your relevant experiences and qualifications during the interview.

02Prepare Example Stories

  • Behavioural interview questions typically require you to provide specific examples from your past experiences. It is essential to prepare relevant example stories that demonstrate your skills and abilities.
  • Start by identifying key competencies that are likely to be assessed during the interview. Common behavioural competencies include problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, communication, and adaptability. Reflect on your past experiences and select examples that highlight these competencies.
  • For each example, use the STAR method to structure your response: Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Describe the specific situation, the task or challenge you faced, the actions you took to address it, and the positive result or outcome that was achieved. Practice telling these example stories in a concise and compelling manner.

03Practice Interview Questions

  • Behavioural interview questions can be challenging, so it is important to practice answering them. Look for a list of common behavioural interview questions and prepare your responses. Remember to focus on providing specific examples and using the STAR method to structure your answers.
  • Practice answering questions out loud, either alone or with a friend or family member. Pay attention to your body language, tone of voice, and overall confidence. Ask for feedback and make any necessary adjustments to improve your delivery.
  • Consider recording yourself during practice interviews to identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to your verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as well as your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely.

04Review Your Resume and Employment History

  • Take the time to review your resume and employment history, as the interviewer may ask about specific details or experiences mentioned on your resume.
  • Be prepared to explain any gaps in employment, changes in career paths, or notable achievements. Reflect on each job or role you've had and think about the skills and experiences you gained from them. Connect these experiences to the job you are applying for and be ready to discuss how they make you a strong candidate.
  • Consider creating a concise summary of your employment history to provide a clear and organized overview during the interview. This will help you highlight the most relevant and impactful experiences.

05Dress Professionally and Arrive Early

  • First impressions matter, so it is important to dress professionally for a behavioural interview. Choose appropriate attire that reflects the company's dress code and presents you as a polished and professional candidate.
  • Plan your outfit in advance, ensuring it is clean, well-fitted, and suitable for the job and industry. Pay attention to grooming and personal hygiene as well.
  • It is also crucial to arrive early for the interview. Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time. This shows punctuality and allows you to settle in and calm any pre-interview nerves. Plan your route in advance, accounting for potential traffic or transportation delays.

Conclusion

Preparing for a behavioural interview requires research, preparation, and practice. By researching the company, preparing example stories, practicing interview questions, reviewing your resume and employment history, and dressing professionally, you can confidently demonstrate your skills and abilities during the interview. Remember to stay calm, listen attentively, and be yourself. Good luck!

MethodsDetails
Research the CompanyThoroughly research the company's mission, values, and culture. Familiarize yourself with their products or services and recent news or developments. Also, research the position you are applying for.
Prepare Example StoriesIdentify key competencies assessed in the interview and prepare example stories that highlight these competencies. Use the STAR method to structure your responses.
Practice Interview QuestionsPractice answering common behavioural interview questions using specific examples and the STAR method. Pay attention to your body language and delivery.
Review Your Resume and Employment HistoryReview your resume and be prepared to explain any gaps, career changes, or notable achievements. Connect your experiences to the job you are applying for.
Dress Professionally and Arrive EarlyChoose appropriate attire that reflects the company's dress code and arrive early for the interview to make a good first impression.
behavioural interview
interview preparation
job interview