Behavioral or Competency-Based Job Interviews

The theory: past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior

A behavioral interview is considered the most challenging type of interview to master. The theory behind behavioral interview questions is that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior.

These interview questions relate to how you handled various situations in former jobs, and can often be tough to answer. Behavioral interview skills require advance preparation and practice. How would you answer some of the sample interview questions below?

Can you describe a time you used persuasion to convince someone to see things your way? Can you describe the coping skills you used during a stressful situation? Can you tell me about a time you used presentation skills to influence the opinion of others? How did you handle having too many tasks due at the same time? Can you describe a time you had to deal with conflict? Can you tell me about a difficult decision you made last year? Can you give me an example of failing at something you tried to accomplish? Can you describe a time you showed initiative and took the lead? Can you explain how you dealt with a very upset customer or co-worker? Can you give me an example of a time you motivated others? Can you tell me about a time you delegated effectively? Can you describe a time you missed an obvious solution to a problem? Can you describe a time you anticipated problems and developed preventive measures? Can you tell me about a time you had to make an unpopular decision? Can you describe a time you set your sights too high or too low?