We have all been faced with that one question during our job interview which made us go blank and nervous. These questions are usually difficult and may have to deal with negative experiences. There’s one method you can overcome this, the STAR method.With the STAR method of answering questions, you probably won’t be caught off guard. The STAR method is an acronym for Situation-Task-Action-Result.
First, think of a situation where you faced the same or similar circumstances. Delve into what the task at hand was and go further by explaining what action you took or what your take was on dealing with that particular incident.
Conclude by clarifying what the result of your action was. This only means that when a question is asked, all you have to do is to take your time before answering and divide your answer into these four logically sequenced parts.
Examples of star questions would be, describe a situation where you had to deal with a team member who was not willing to cooperate with the rest of the team, describe a situation where you lead a team single-handedly, describe an incident where you were not comfortable being a part of a team, etc.
In effect, a question which can or may give you sweaty palms needs to be dealt with a star answer.
It’s all right if the situation didn’t end in your favour because you can always tell the interviewer about what you learnt from the situation and that you know better now to approach the same problem differently and demonstrate the same.
The key to any interview is practice and make sure you do so that you get the hang of answering in the star method. Next time you are in for an interview, make sure you do it the star way!
Be Genuine
Although you will practice interview questions, they are strictly for warm up! You do not want to sound like a programmed robot. The purpose for practicing is to reassure yourself that you have all the answers, and to practice thinking and to respond quickly (just in case you are the type of person that says the first thing that comes to mind). Once you have practiced, you will find that you will instinctively know the answers. Let them flow naturally.
Be Confident
Applying for a job you are qualified for will give you all the confidence you need to calm down and decrease your level of nervousness. If you are applying for your dream job, then find out what skills are required, and go out there and train. When you are prepared, set up an interview, because confidence in your ability to perform a job will carry you through the interview process.
If you are already qualified, remember that as you walk into the interview. In that case, you are there because they need a great employee who is qualified, and you are that great employee who is qualified! If you are still nervous, hide it. They cannot tell you are nervous unless you show them you are.
Be Prepared
Keep answers to some of the patent questions ready. Preparing answers to such questions and speaking them before the interview can help you saying them confidently during the interview.
Also, perform your research on the company. You must know something about the company and the position before you walk into an interview.
You can also LIKE our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter for regular updates.