BEHAVIOUR QUESTIONS AND HOW TO ANSWER THEM

Tell me about a time you made a mistake

To answer this question, you need to think about a structured response. Focus on how you reacted and the effort you made to put things right.

For a structed response, we recommend The STAR method:

Situation: What was the general background?

Task: What specific challenges or obstacles did you face?

Action: What did you do and how did you do it?

Result: What were the benefits, and did you receive recognition?

If you would like to read more on The STAR method, click here.

Tell me how you handled a difficult situation

Again, using The STAR method when answering this question will help you stay on message and structure a response. Make sure that you give a complete answer with a positive outcome.

How would you deal with an angry or irate customer?

Ideally you would have experience of this and be able to come up with lots of examples. However, if you haven’t experienced this, focus on clear communications, rapid resolution and escalating the issue if necessary. Remember that you can’t just give the customer whatever they want.  

Tell me about an accomplishment you are most proud of

Don’t be shy about blowing your own trumpet here, this is your opportunity to. Try and pick something that is relevant to the role you’re applying for and show cases your skills.

Give a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project

You can be positive about yourself here. Try to keep your answer within reasonable expectations. If you worked somewhere that went through a period of high sickness, you could say that you took on more duties than normal and handled the extra work load well.

Tell me about a time when you disagreed with your boss

Having a difference of opinion is not a bad thing, it’s just how you show that you have different view point. Do not slip into a rant here or give your personal opinions on your boss, you just need to give a constructive answer and an example of how you resolved the situation for the better.