We’ve compiled a list of some common behavioral question topics. These questions may come up in different ways, so make sure to review each of the guides below to prepare for your interview.
Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous, Risky (VUCAR) Guide
Here are some sample behavior interview questions. The questions can be filtered for the various levels defined below:
Level I — Frontline staff, those who do not supervise others.
Level II — Supervisors, Team Leaders, Work Unit Leaders, those who lead the work of a natural group of people, either temporarily (process improvement team leader) or as an ongoing role (foreman, section leader).
Level III — These Mid-level managers are generally those who supervise Level II staff or division, department, or service line managers. Level III staff are those in charge of a major function in an organization.
Level IV — Executive leaders, those responsible for the overall functioning and outcomes of the organization.
You want to make a great first impression, be very familiar with the organization, and convey how you’re the best candidate for the job.
Spend a few hours learning everything you can about the organization from as many sources as possible. Read current news releases, spend some time on Google, talk with current and former employees, etc.
Company Website—including annual reports, prospectuses, newsletters, etc.
Edgar –The SEC’s database which includes SEC filings by any publicly traded company
News articles online
Online reviews (i.e.: Glassdoor.com)
It’s essential to spend time thinking carefully about your skills, accomplishments, and your answers to some common interview questions. Make sure to have your “tell me about yourself" response ready to go.
Practice looking in the mirror and answer your responses out loud. Have your friends conduct some mock interviews. You can even record yourself. This prep work will help you clarify your thoughts and make you much more comfortable during the interview.
Before your interview, you should find out as much as you can about the company/organization. Here’s a guide that will help you prepare.
How you respond to the “Tell me about yourself” question can set the tone for the rest of the interview. Go through your resume and all your previous experience and figure out what you’re going to say for each of these 5 points:
The “Beginning” – Where You’re From? University? Business School?
Why You’re Here Today – Why this company/organization, and why now? After spending some time researching, you should have a good sense of the mission, goals and trends impacting the industry.
Your Future – What are your goals?
Your Interests – Which 2-3 activities will you mention? It’s a good idea to share your personality with your interviewer, but be brief and keep it professional. Avoid sensitive topics like politics and religion.
Make a quick 5 bullet point outline, then practice your story with a friend or anyone you know in the industry.
Aim for 2-3 minutes total.
Use the SAR Template to develop “stories” that showcase your accomplishments.
Keep your stories short (under 2 minutes).
Use “I” language (versus too much “we” language) to describe your actions and value-add.
Whenever possible, quantify results and give specific outcomes.
If you can’t quantify results, try to qualify them by mentioning any awards, recognition, or promotions that.
Greeting:
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:
When writing a thank you email, keep your email simple and focused.
The first paragraph of your email should thank the hiring manager for taking the time to interview you for the specific job. (1-2 sentences)
(Optional) The second paragraph of your thank you letter should include the reasons why you are a strong candidate for the position. List specific skills that relate to the job you interviewed for or if there is information about your qualifications that you wish you had mentioned during the interview, but didn't get a chance to discuss, use this paragraph to explain.
(1-2 sentences)
In your closing paragraph, reiterate your appreciation for being considered for the job and let the hiring manager know you are looking forward to hearing from him or her soon. (1 sentence)
Closing:
Best Regards,