How to master the STAR technique
The STAR method is a tried and tested framework that, once mastered, will mean you walk into your next interview feeling focused, confident, calm and collected.
It’s basically a formula that will help you to craft answers to interview questions that allow you to tell your story in a concise and structured way that includes all the important details without going off topic.
The good news is that once you know what you are doing, you can use this method over and over again.
How to use the STAR technique
STAR is an acronym for the 4 parts of a story or scenario that you will cover that will structure your answer perfectly. They are:
1. SITUATION – Setting the scene and giving a context to your story
2. TASK – Describing how you fit into the story and what your responsibility was in the scenario
3. ACTION – Explain what action you took to address the specific situation and how you approached each task
4. RESULT – summarise the outcome or result of your example
How to structure your answers
To help you craft your perfect answers, you can use the below table to build up a selection of answers that demonstrate different skills and competencies featured in the job description. For examples of the type of questions that come up check out my blog How to ace competency-based interviews
Follow this example matrix below:
Example question: “Tell me about a time when you had to be very strategic in order to meet all of your top priorities.”
SOURCE: www.themuse.com
How to elevate your answers
You can elevate your responses by anticipating follow up questions from the interviewer. Take the time to develop your answers even further by reflecting on:
· What you learnt from the experience
· What you could have done differently
· What impact you had
With a bit of preparation and practice the STAR method can be a fantastic secret weapon to tell the interviewer everything you want them to know about your career highlights.
For more interview tips check out these blogs and resources: