Thursday, June 14, 2007

The Method, Traditional, Behavioral, etc.


In the past I have referenced job experiences related to interviewing. Today, I am going to look at some of the main types of interview questions. Most notably are the traditional, behavioral or a mix of the two. In my interviews I had three traditional interviews and one behavioral. In May I mentioned how grateful I was that the people interviewing my using the behavioral method were kind, helpful, and relaxed. They helped me to relax myself and take a few minutes to collect me thoughts if I needed to. The gentleman even gave me an example in his own life on one of the questions to give me an idea and a chance to think. Admittedly, afterwards I scratched my head and asked "Why didn't I think of this, or that?" A good way to prepare for such interviews is to look at similar questions and think of answers. Guard against memorizing answers, but start thinking about examples.

http://www.quintcareers.com/sample_behavioral.html has a good list of questions:

Here is one list of sample behavioral-based interview questions:
Describe a situation in which you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way.
Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.
Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.
Tell me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence someone's opinion.
Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.
Please discuss an important written document you were required to complete.
Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.
Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize your tasks.
Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
Tell me about a time you were able to successfully deal with another person even when that individual may not have personally liked you (or vice versa).
Tell me about a difficult decision you've made in the last year.
Give me an example of a time when something you tried to accomplish and failed.
Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.
Tell me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker.
Give me an example of a time when you motivated others.
Tell me about a time when you delegated a project effectively.
Give me an example of a time when you used your fact-finding skills to solve a problem.
Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem.
Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventive measures.
Tell me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.
Please tell me about a time you had to fire a friend.
Describe a time when you set your sights too high (or too low).

No comments: