Example Behavioural Interview Questions And Answers.
Heading into an interview hot without preparation is a recipe for disaster. To better prepare for an interview read and try to answer as many probing behavioural interview questions as you can think of.
Behavioural interview questions aren’t your typical “understand the company mission” style of question. Behavioural interview questions require planning and thought because they will be different based on who’s asking them. The best way to plan for them is to practice coming up with answers.
Variations on a theme
Usually most behavioural interview questions tend to centre around a few common themes such as handling difficult relationships, negotiating with others, achieving results under pressure, balancing priorities and learning a new skills. Let’s take a look at a few behavioural interview questions.
Example Behavioural Interview Questions And Answers
Question: Tell me about a time when you had unrealistic expectations placed upon you?
Answer: While working for Companyxyz I was chosen to replace the manager for a short term period while he took some leave. There was a trade event scheduled during this period and because CIO was out I had to present. While not normally in this position I was able to deliver a solid presentation and win an invite back next year.
Question: Tell me about a time you needed to communicate an unpopular concept and encourage others to support it?
Answer: While running ProjectABC I calculated based on current industry rates that we could finish the project faster and cheaper if we literally sacked the current vendor and went back out to market. As the vendor was a long time favourite of the management this was not popular. I was given a just 5 mins to state my case at a senior management meeting and was authorised to proceed with my strategy.
Question: Give a recent example of a time that you were imaginative when solving a problem or responding to an opportunity.
Answer: An emergency pre sales meeting was required to close a big deal in Thailand. The issue was that there was only a small window to get everyone in the room for the meeting. Just as we were all set the flight was cancelled due to weather. To avoid a disaster I used my Qantas lounge access to negotiate and organise a conference call. After a bit of mucking around we were able to proceed and get the business.
Question: Share a time when you stepped into a role or project without a roadmap, How did you go about gathering the necessary information for success?
Answer: While working at ACB, I was handed project123. This project had no roadmap just a clearly defined target. Using my experience as a project manager I was able to interview people, gain an understanding of the process, define a work breakdown structure and create a roadmap.
I hope these questions and answers stimulate some thought for your next interview!
Know EXACTLY what to say in the interview word for word!
Getting through the interview is all about being prepared. I’ve found a resource that:
- Gives easy to remember answers for any type of question including behavioural interview questions
- Teaches the ability to spot trick questions designed to weed out the unprepared
- Explains a way to come off looking “poised” and professional
