Tips for Answering Situational Interview Questions

Tips for Responding to Situational Interview Questions

So, how do you write your sample answers to these questions? There are a few points to keep in mind when you’re trying to come up with answers to these questions.

The first skill to learn about is the STAR method. This is a method for answering interview questions where you go over the Situation, Task, Action, and Result to give a great answer to your hiring manager. A good answer will typically follow this path because it allows you to focus on not only a positive outcome but also the system you used to get there.

It’s also a good idea to have a few situations in mind before you come to the interview, but avoid memorizing sample answers outright. While it’s good to think about situations where you had issues with a coworker, for example, you shouldn’t prepare a complex answer to the question, “What would you do if there was a problem with someone else in your work environment?” Interviewers value your ability to think on your feet, and they want to see that interviewees are able to answer questions on the go.

Lastly, know what skills you should be prioritizing in your interview. Reread the job description, look up the company website or related news, and go over any information you’ve received directly from the company or from the hiring manager. Prioritize specific skills that you know the company is looking for. Those skills should come through when you’re answering situational interview questions.