Following on from the 5 Steps to Interview Success article. I have had a few conversations with people asking how and why do you prepare answers to interview questions?.
As part of my interview coaching I strongly encourage clients to prepare answers to potential questions. Why? Some interview questions will suggest hypothetical scenarios which require the applicant to describe how they have or might act in a given situation. Do not leave it up to inspiration for the answers. Having practiced, well thought out responses will help you easily recall positive examples of your skills and abilities.
Examples can be drawn from all aspects of your life including hobbies, church, sports group, voluntary work. If you are being interviewed by previous colleagues using example from other areas of your life can offer a fresh perspective.
Where ever possible you need to include numbers, what was the size of the project, team, client base? Quantifying answers help to give a detailed perspective.
It is not a time to be too modest, however never include an exaggeration or make clam that is not true.
The STAR acronym is the simple and to the point to method to help develop and recall answers to interview questions.
Situation, Start by describing the situation by starting phrases with “When I” or “In one of the Project Team I managed…..”
Task, Talk about what you did “I was ask to” or “My task was to….”
Action, What did you do “I did” or “The action I took was…”
Result, What happened, discuss the outcomes for yourself, and for your employer “The end result was….”