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• Behavioral Interviews

The STAR Interview Method: How to Answer + Examples

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and this method will help you create structured, concise, and engaging responses to behavioral interview questions. Whenever you need to tell a story to demonstrate your skills, STAR is your go-to.

If “telling a story” sounds intimidating, don’t worry. We wrote this guide with the help of career coach Pamela Skillings, recognized as “A guru in the world of interviewing” by the Wall Street Journal. Her insights and tips will help you learn the STAR method and quickly create engaging answers to increase your chances of landing a job.

After reading this article, you’ll know:

• What is the STAR method and how to use it for the greatest impact
• How to make your STAR answers shine bright (samples included)
• How to easily prepare your answers before the interview

Don’t waste days compiling overused interview techniques. Get original answers to every single question you could expect.

What Is the STAR Method?

The STAR (Situation-Task-Action-Result) method, a.k.a. the STAR format, is a way to answer behavioral interview questions and other common questions that require storytelling. It proves you’ve got the skills needed to excel in the position you applied for — based on a story about how you used those skills in the past.

Usually, you’ll need to use the STAR technique when answering behavioral interview questions , that is, questions that begin with:

• Tell me about a time when…
• Can you recall a situation in which…
• Give me an example of a time when you…

The STAR method can be useful in answering any question, whenever you’d like to use a story or illustrate something with an example. For instance, questions about:

• Your proudest accomplishments
• Times you failed
• Your strengths
• Your weaknesses
• Situational questions – questions about a hypothetical situation

“I recommend that when it’s possible, candidates add a short STAR example to the hypothetical. Like: ‘Here’s a description of how I would generally respond. For example, I recently had a situation…’ Not always possible but definitely helpful. A real example is much more memorable and convincing than theorizing.” — says Skillings.

For more information on behavioral interviewing and how to answer these questions using the STAR method, check out the video:

If you want to learn more about how to answer the most common interview questions, how to sell yourself in an interview, or negotiate your salary, sign up for our free course .

How to Create Answers Using the STAR Method

Let’s break down each component of the STAR method and learn the best way to craft compelling stories.

We’ll use an example of a retail sales associate being asked the following question: “Tell me about a time when you initiated a successful project or an idea.”

Describe the situation so that your interviewer understands the context. There’s no need to be too detailed. Providing a general context with the most important facts should be enough. This should take around 15% of the total answer time.

For example:

Briefly describe your specific task or responsibility in that situation. No need to go into detail here either, just make sure to highlight what your role was.

This is usually the shortest part and should account for 10% of the whole answer.

The main part of your STAR answer. You need to be as detailed as possible when describing what actions you took to achieve something. The Action part should take up around 60% of your answer (it might seem a lot, but remember, you have to describe what you did — step by step).

Here, interviewers will look for clues about your experience and skills. Depending on the skill the question is supposed to assess, this bit will show them:

• How you think.
• How you organize work.
• How well you work with others.
• If you have an analytical mind.

✅ Pro tip: The question hints about what skills you’ll need to highlight in the Action part. For example, in our case, the question “Tell me about a time when you initiated a successful project or an idea,” will look to assess:

• Your ability to take initiative (because you initiated a project)
• Your analytical skills (because you spotted potential areas of improvement)
• Your problem-solving skills (how you completed that project or idea)
• Your communication skills (because you had to successfully present an idea and get approval for its realization)

Here, you should mention the tangible results of your actions. Ideally, these will be quantifiable data (%, $), but you can also include qualitative things (bonuses, positive feedback, promotions, awards).

✅ Pro tip: You can also touch upon lessons learned from your experiences. This is especially important for questions about less flattering experiences you had, like the ones about your failures or weaknesses.

Here’s what the entire answer would sound like.

Sample answer using the STAR method

Interviewer: “Tell me about a time when you initiated a successful project or an idea.”

STAR Method in Action: Sample Questions and Answers

Sample star answer to a question about teamwork, industry: it consulting.

Interviewer: “Share an example of when you had to adapt to a team member’s working style.”

Situation: A few months ago, I was assigned to work on a project with a coworker from another department.

Task: Our task was to develop processes for several new services our agency introduced to our clients. After the initial meeting, I noticed big differences in how he and I approach work. I’m flexible and tend to focus on the big picture. He’s detail-oriented and prefers a structured approach.

Action: We decided to split the work accordingly. I focused on the goals of these new services and how to best follow them through procedures. I also worked on identifying key milestones and major project components. He, in turn, worked on granular steps, created structured plans for each project phase, and developed in-depth documentation and manuals explaining the processes.

Result: We ended up completing the project a week before the deadline and with minimal reiterations from the management team. The experience taught me that such a big difference in working styles is not a disadvantage: on the contrary, it’s a complementary strength that helps us contribute to the team and the company in the best possible way.

Why we like it: The candidate saw a way to turn a potentially difficult clash into a productive experience, displaying positivity and great interpersonal skills. They also proved their problem-solving skills by devising a plan where both people could contribute to the project through their unique strengths.

For a detailed guide on all behavioral questions related to teamwork, check out How to Answer Teamwork Interview Questions (Tips and Examples) .

Sample STAR answer to a question about problem-solving

Industry: hr.

Interviewer: “How did you approach a situation where you had multiple problems to solve at the same time?”

Situation: In my last position where I worked as a recruiter, we got into a high-demand hiring season where we had to fill in several key positions across several departments simultaneously.

Task: At first, I didn’t know what to focus on, as I was in charge of managing open positions and moving candidates through the hiring process effectively.

Action: I decided to structure my approach and began by researching each position thoroughly to gauge the urgency and criticality of the role. It helped me prioritize and allocate resources accordingly. I made strategic use of our applicant tracking system to streamline the sourcing and screening processes to filter out only the best, relevant candidates. I also used industry-specific platforms and forums to track people.

Result: This helped me meet the hiring goals and decrease the time needed for hiring. 2 years later, all the people I hired then are still in the company, which proves they were a good fit.

Why we like it: The candidate explained in detail their process for solving the problem, which gives the interviewer insight into their approach, problem-solving skills, prioritization, and analytical thinking.

If you want to learn all about how to answer problem-solving skills, we’ve got a super detailed guide for you: Answering Problem-Solving Interview Questions: Tips and Examples .

Sample STAR answer to a question about leadership

Industry: email marketing.

Interviewer: “Tell me about a time when you had to lead under pressure or a tight deadline.”

Situation: Last year, my team got a big ad-hoc project from one of our main clients.

Task: The deadline was tight, and we had to conceptualize and create 30+ BFCM promo emails.

Action: As soon as we got the brief, I scheduled a meeting to organize and divide the workload and set clear timelines. I prioritized tasks based on the email’s scheduling date and offer importance. I established the order of operations, and we had a clear process on who was doing what and when. Still, there were times when we had to improvise but transparent communication made it easy. Each person was like a piece of a puzzle and we worked tirelessly.

Result: It was like watching a well-organized sports team — their efficiency was admirable. We finished all emails on time and generated $850K in revenue from them. The client was thrilled.

Why we like it : The candidate kept their cool in a high-pressure situation and relied on their leadership and organizational skills to set an efficient process and inspire their team to give their best.

If you want to learn more about how to answer leadership questions, check out Behavioral Interview Questions: Leadership [How to Answer + Examples] .

If you’re applying for your first leadership position, head here: 20+ First-Time Manager Interview Questions and Answers + Tips

Sample STAR answer to a question about communication

Industry: education.

Interviewer: “Tell me about a situation when you persuaded someone to see things your way at work.”

Situation: Two years ago, I wanted to integrate some practical, real-world examples into classes and courses.

Task : I especially wanted to do this in my lessons and I wanted my students to get some hands-on experience in marketing.

Action: For this, I thought about involving a local retail business. So I had to convince my coworkers, teachers, and school administration to apply this unconventional approach. To make it convincing and enjoyable, I created a mini-game where teachers would play the role of students engaging in a simulated marketing project. Before the game, during the presentation, I put a lot of emphasis on how students could benefit from this and apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Result: They appreciated my efforts and ideas and agreed to explore the possibility of collaborating with one of our local businesses. Eventually, we did manage to make it happen, and I learned how important it is to be relatable, creative, and fun when pitching new ideas.

Why we like it: The candidate found a new angle for persuading someone to see things their way — they were relatable and used humor and entertainment as their main weaponry.

If you want to learn more about how to answer questions about communication and working in diverse teams, check out Answering Behavioral Interview Questions: Intercultural Fluency .

Sample STAR answer to a question about initiative and ownership

Industry: marketing.

Interviewer: “Tell me about a time when you worked with little to no supervision.”

Situation: I worked in an internal marketing department in a marketing agency. We used to launch quarterly reports about industry trends and events that shaped the previous quarter.

Task: During a particularly busy season, the entire company was focused on client work. My coworker and Iwere left to write, design, publish, and promote the report without any help.

Action: We decided to split the tasks: I wrote the report, she edited it and added insights from industry experts we got in touch with. She designed the report, and I wrote the copy for the landing page and other promotional materials. Finally, we found a simple drag-and-drop page builder and created the landing page, connected it to our website and email service provider, and tested everything. Everything went pretty smoothly, and we managed to publish the report on time, as if nothing had happened.

Result: We got a lot of positive feedback from the readers. I realized I wouldn’t have been able to do it all by myself, and this experience taught me how important it is to work with someone you trust.

Why we like it: The candidate displayed resourcefulness and the ability to do the work independently. They also showed they can get along with others in high-pressure situations, and that they’re a reliable person who can deliver the work even if the circumstances are not ideal.

How to Prepare STAR Answers Before the Interview

Research the job.

You can’t properly prepare unless you know what exactly you’re preparing for. So you’ll need to research the job to understand what skills and competencies the position requires, and what kind of experience an ideal candidate would have.

Your best bet is the job ad itself. Read it carefully, and pay special attention to sections like “What you’ll be responsible for” or “Your duties.”

You can also check the company website — perhaps you can find the company structure there, and details about the team your potential position is in, as well as how it’s connected to other teams internally.

Check out the company’s social media and website for clues about company culture, as that can help you gauge what soft skills might be a nice addition to your experience and existing skills.

Reflect on your past

Think about your achievements that might be similar (or identical) to what’s expected of you in the job you’re interviewing for.

Think about:

• Things you achieved on your own
• Things you achieved with your coworkers
• Your failures and weaknesses
• Your strengths and interests
• Lessons you learned from certain experiences

Then, think about typical skills that behavioral questions tend to explore. These are usually:

• Communication
• Problem-solving
• Decision-making
• Initiative and ownership

Then, connect the dots. What is your proudest accomplishment, and what’s the skill that helped you achieve it? What’s your biggest failure? What caused it?

Write down these ideas and details and include them in the final version of your answer.

Finally, connect your past achievements or duties to potential interview questions. Draw parallels between the skills and experiences you have and the ones they need. Find a way to illustrate how you can contribute to their company.

More tips below:

Practicing for interviews is key, but especially so when it comes to delivering STAR-based answers.

If you don’t practice, here’s what will happen:

• You won’t have relevant stories to illustrate your skills.
• Even if you manage to think of something on the spot, you won’t provide all the relevant details.
• You won’t figure out the key skill they’re looking to assess.
• You’ll be nervous and scramble to find the right words.
• Your delivery will be a mess.

Practicing will prevent all of these problems and make sure both your answer and your delivery are perfect — it takes some time, yes, but it also makes all the difference between “we’ll call you” and “you’re hired!”

You can use an Interview Simulator to practice for just about any behavioral question. The tool will assess the quality of your answer and suggest how to make it better by adding more power words, improving your pace of speech or vocabulary, reducing filler words, and much more.

You can have as many takes as you like, until you feel confident and excited about that interview.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being too general.

Get specific in all the components of your STAR answer! Sure, you already know that the Action part needs to be the longest and most detailed, but don’t skip over important info in other components.

If a piece of information is relevant to the story, contributes to the context, and illustrates your experience or skills, include it.

Missing the point

If a piece of info doesn’t contribute to your point in any way — drop it. There’s no need to use irrelevant details. Although there’s no fixed limit to the length of a STAR answer, it should be long enough to provide only key details that illustrate your point.

If you’re having doubts about whether or not to include a detail, ask yourself “So what?” If you can’t find a direct connection to the story, skip it.

Focusing on the wrong story

A story that doesn’t connect to the job you’re applying for or that doesn’t illustrate the right skill is useless, no matter how fun.

Anticipate common behavioral interview questions, research them, and think about what skill(s) they’re trying to assess.

The situation from the question will reveal what skill they’re trying to assess (usually what goes after “Tell me about a time when”). Once you discover what it is, you can think of additional, complementary skills that would be nice to have.

Below is a list of common behavioral questions and skills they’re seeking to uncover. The bolded elements are the main skill the question is targeting, the rest are complementary, desirable skills to display.

• Describe a time when you had to handle a conflict between two team members ( Conflict resolution , teamwork, interpersonal relations, communication, leadership)
• Can you share an instance where you went over and above to help a team member? ( Teamwork , taking initiative)
• Can you give an example of a time when your team disagreed with your decision, and how did you manage it? ( Conflict resolution , leadership, persuasion, communication)
• Describe a situation where you had to make a tough decision with limited information ( Decision-making , resourcefulness, analytical thinking, calculating risk)
• Discuss a situation where you implemented a creative solution to a problem ( Problem-solving , analytical thinking, creativity)
• Share an experience of leading a team through a major organizational change ( Leadership , problem-solving, interpersonal relationships, communication)
• How have you handled a non-performing team member? ( Interpersonal relationships , handling feedback, leadership, problem-solving)
• How have you persuaded someone to see things your way at work? ( Persuasion , communication, interpersonal relationships, teamwork)
• How have you handled communicating with a diverse group of individuals? ( Communication , teamwork, creativity)
• Talk about a project or task you started on your initiative ( Taking initiative , task ownership, problem-solving, analytical thinking)

Not preparing ahead of time

As we already said, preparation is key. Not preparing your stories and STAR answers in advance will seriously mess up your chances of landing that job for all the reasons discussed in the headings above: your answer will be messy, you’ll miss the point and tell the wrong story, you’ll sound unconvincing, you won’t be able to provide relevant detail, and you’ll probably get confused and start stuttering.

For this reason, anticipating the most common behavioral questions and preparing a few stories in advance is key.

Plus, a single story can serve you multiple times for multiple different questions.

Not to mention, you’ll be ready for job interviews that will come in the future. All it will take is just a bit of refreshing your memory.

The STAR Interview Method: Popular Opinion vs. Expert Advice

Assignmenthuge102 posted on Reddit :

Does anybody else feel demoralized after a STAR method interview? I can’t stand STAR method interviews (situation, task, action, result). It seems so fake and it doesn’t seem to get the most out of the candidate because of how manufactured their responses are. What are your thoughts on this method? Has anyone had success with it? What are your experience? 

Career expert comments:

Like any other framework, the STAR is the template to be adjusted and changed according to a candidate’s unique experience. If used lazily, it will produce inauthentic answers.

But if used properly, it’s just a way to create meaningful answers quicker and easier – not a tool for mass-producing manufactured answers. So it’s likely that the STAR answers this person heard from others and used themselves were not correctly made.

If a candidate has strong achievements, their STAR answers won’t be boring or predictable because it’s not likely that someone else managed to earn that amount of money, or reduced churn by that percent, and similar. So I’d say to focus on results and quantify them in the STAR answer.

From there, candidates are allowed to play around. I would say that reordering the STAR elements can be a fun way to stand out. For example, starting your answer with:

“I once saved $23K for my company simply by introducing a detailed QA checklist.” is a great way to hook the listener and make them want to hear more. From there, you can work your way back and explain how you did it and why it needed to be done in the first place.

In the same thread, Confident-Mushroom80 said:

The best way to get through them is to literally sit down with a Google Sheet and copy/paste STAR questions onto it and then methodically formulate the best possible answer for them. Format it nicely so it’s effective for your eyes. Refresh the answers in any way you see fit according to the new job you are interviewing for. If you’re on Zoom or whatever you can literally have it open on a second screen and scroll through to find things in real time in case your brain flies out your ass in mid-interview.

… and BootyMcSqueak answered:

I did this too. Until they asked questions I wasn’t prepared for and tried doing STAR on the fly. I felt flustered trying to word everything in that specific format. I did not get the job.

Career expert comments: 

Don’t do this unless you want to get flustered and ruin your chances of landing a job. Interviewers can easily spot a canned answer, doesn’t matter if you’ll read it from a Google Sheet or learn it by heart. They might not comment on it, but that doesn’t mean you’ll get away with it.

A better approach here would be to focus on the stories and how you can adjust them to answer several different questions – not on individual questions and a canned answer for each.

So prepare several strong stories that showcase your skills and then adjust them to answer the question you get in an interview. If you prepare them for the key skills relevant to pretty much any position (teamwork, problem-solving, communication, analytical skills…), you’ll be covered.

You’ll have an answer to the question, you’ll know exactly what you need to say, but you’ll do a bit of improvisation to adjust it, which will prove it’s authentic and not scripted.

Summary of the Main Points

• The STAR method stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
• STAR is used to answer all behavioral interview questions, but it can be useful whenever you want to tell a story, regardless of the type of question you get.
• When using this framework, you should provide enough relevant information to set the context, describe the problem and your part in it, your action (how you solved it), and the results.
• The Action part of your answer needs to be the longest and most detailed: it needs to take up around 60% of your STAR answer.
• Always include quantifiable results. If this is not possible, mention qualitative results like bonuses, promotions, positive feedback, and similar.
• It’s best to mention the lessons learned in the Results part, especially when answering questions about your less flattering side: your failures and weaknesses.

_____________________

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What is the START method? Is it different from the STAR method?

START stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result, Takeaway. Essentially, it’s the same as STAR, with another component, Takeaway, in which you talk about lessons learned from the experience. That said, you should list lessons learned in the Result section whenever possible, so essentially, START and STAR are the same.

Can I use the STAR method when answering questions other than the behavioral ones?

Yes, you can use the STAR method whenever you want to tell a story to illustrate your point — at pretty much any time during the interview, not only when asked a behavioral question. You can also use it when answering situational questions, to add a realistic picture in addition to your hypothetical reaction.

Why do I find the “tell me about a time” questions so hard?

You might find the behavioral questions hard or challenging in case you don’t prepare in advance. In such cases, it’s hard to think of relevant stories on the spot, it’s difficult to properly describe relevant skills and experience, and your delivery will be poor because you’re nervous. This is why preparing and practicing answers for these questions is crucial for informative, engaging answers and confident delivery.

How to use the STAR method if I can’t think of an example of a specific situation?

If you haven’t experienced the exact situation that a question refers to, think of a similar one, or analyze the question, figure out which skill it seeks to assess, and provide a story where you displayed a similar skill. If this doesn’t work, think of situations that share similarities or certain aspects with the question asked. If that doesn’t work either, create a hypothetical scenario that demonstrates the skills from the question. However, you’ll need to be transparent and communicate that this is a hypothetical situation. In the Situation and Task parts of your answer, briefly describe the scenario you’re using as a basis for your response. In the Action part, describe what actions you would take in a situation, explaining why you made that particular choice. In the Result part, discuss the potential outcomes or the expected results.

Can I use the STAR interviewing technique effectively if I have no experience?

Yes, because your answers don’t need to be based solely on your work experience. You can draw upon other aspects of your life, like education, volunteering experience, internships, extracurricular activities, personal projects, hobbies, or any other situations where you demonstrated relevant skills or qualities.

Which interview questions, in particular, should I answer using the STAR format?

Primarily behavioral interview questions (the ones that begin with “Tell me about a time when” or “Can you recall a situation when”). But you can use the STAR method regardless of the type of question, whenever you want to showcase your experience and skills through storytelling.

Maja Stojanovic

Fact Checked By:

Industry Expert Contributions:

Pamela Skillings

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The STAR Method Interview Questions + Answers and Examples (2024 Guide)

Understand Competency Based Interview Questions and learn how to use the STAR Method to answer any Competency and Behaviour question like a pro!

Have you been asked STAR interview questions at a competency or behaviour style interview and failed to answer successfully?

Don’t worry you are not alone.

We have been coaching clients to success in job interviews for the past 18 years and we see so many candidates who struggle to give top scoring answers to these tough interview questions.

As we will see below there is a range of reasons for this however the most important fault is lack of structure. In this guide we will show you some tough competency STAR interview questions and we teach you all about the STAR method, a powerful and well recognised technique for answering not just competency but any interview question like an expert.

Get Your Target Job Faster With InterviewGold

Accurate questions, brilliant competency and behaviour STAR examples, expert advice and much more. 92% success.

In this article

What is the star method, star interview questions – what are they and are they different, 9 star example interview questions, what is a competency or behaviour.

• Employers Love STAR Interview Questions – Why is that?

Why do so Many People Struggle When Answering STAR Interview Questions?

What is the star method for answering interview questions.

• How to Use the STAR Method to Make Your Answers Really Stand Out
• 2 Key Factors That Make a Good Answer Great
• Tips on Choosing Examples for Your STAR Answer
• Sample STAR Answer to Inspire Your Interview Success

STAR Method Example for Problem Solving Competency

• Remember: You Must Include the Correct Behaviours in Your STAR Answer

7 Key Strategies to Keep in Mind When Answering STAR Interview Questions

• How to Answer Any STAR Interview Question With 100% Confidence

The STAR Method is a simple way to structure answers to competency and behavioural interview questions. It stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result and is a widely accepted format to present your examples and stories when being interviewed. We go into this in more detail below.

You may come across the phrase STAR interview questions however in practice these are the same as competency based or behaviour questions and are phrased in the same way. They simply ask you to provide details of a past action, task or performance and your interviewing panel will listen for phrases and keywords to demonstrate what they call ‘positive behaviours’.

Here is a selection of some difficult STAR interview questions taken from the InterviewGold online training system. Take a few moments and see how you would answer, what examples would you use?

1. Describe a time when your leadership skills made a difference. (Leadership Get Answer )

2. Tell us about a change you made which resulted in an improved customer experience. (Changing and Improving Get Answer )

3. Talk me through a time when you had to communicate to a large group. Tell me how did you get your message across effectively? (Communication Get Answer )

4. Give me an example of a time when you showed initiative at work. (Achieving Results Get Answer )

5. Describe a time when you had to make rapid changes to your plans so as to complete an important task on time. (Planning and Organising Get Answer )

6. Tell me about a time you used your political know how and expertise to initiate a difficult project. (Delivering at Pace Get Answer )

7. Talk me through a situation which shows your ability to make optimum use of the resources available to you while delivering top quality service to your clients. (Managing a Quality Service Get Answer )

8. Tell me about a coaching or mentoring strategy you designed and introduced. What part did you play and what was the outcome? (Leadership Get Answer )

9. Describe a time when you successfully challenged someone whose views you knew were incorrect. Tell me what happened and how you convinced them to accept your opinion. (Accountability and Professionalism Get Answer )

These STAR interview questions explore whether you bring the correct positive behaviours to the role, whether you have demonstrated them before or if not if you have taken steps to acquire them.

You may typically be asked follow up questions such as ‘ What have you learned from this experience? ’ or ‘ What would you do differently next time ?’

In terms of answers to STAR interview questions, you must use the STAR method and below you will learn more about it and how this powerful formula can bring professional structure to your interview answers.

Expert STAR Examples Created For You in Minutes

With InterviewGold you get accurate interview questions, brilliant STAR examples created for you in minutes and expert advice, all tailored to your target job. 92% of members felt better prepared, more confident and got jobs.

A competency or behaviour is a skill or ability that is required in order to carry out the role and forms the Person Specification, which will accompany the Job Description. Many will be the same across various levels within an organisation but the depth of experience required and complexity within each will increase the higher the role. There are a limited number of these although they may be called different names by different organisations.

For example, in the Civil Service Success Profiles framework you will come across a behaviour / competency called Making Effective Decisions. This may be referred to as simply Decision Making by other organisations however it is the same thing.

Other common competencies are Leadership, Communicating, Collaborating and Partnering (Team Work), Managing a Quality Service, Managing Successful Relationships, Delivering at Pace, Changing and Improving.

Employers Love STAR Competency Interview Questions – Why is that?

Put simply they remove the risk of bias.

In the past managers would often hire based on gut-feeling . They might give the job to someone based on how they looked or dressed or how they spoke. While there still remains a risk of human bias Competency Interviewing reduces this dramatically.

In addition, past behaviour is taken as an indicator of future performance . In other words, if you have successfully done it once, you can do it again. Employers believe that they get more qualified candidates who will perform better in the role.

There is so much advice out there now both online and offline; videos, blogs, books etc.

And yet why do so many people get answering these questions wrong?

We constantly see clients who come to us for interview coaching and who have had poor experiences in a competency interview.

Quite often a client will have had feedback saying that their answers were not detailed enough . They are surprised by this because they will have talked and talked in the interview so how can they not have given enough detail?

Other will have prepared and yet are stumped because the questions they prepared for don’t come up exactly as they planned. They get asked the question in a different format and just go blank.

However the top problem we see is poor structure and this is where the STAR method comes into play.

Put simply the STAR technique is a way to structure your answer. It is recommended for use by most organisations including Government, Civil Service, banks and the NHS.

S.T.A.R. stands for Situation + Task + Action + Result

Start by describing the SITUATION you were involved in. You can use an example from your current or previous job, education, personal experience or any relevant event. Always choose the most appropriate and business orientated example you have and one that best fits the role for which you are being interviewed. Choose an example that allows you to demonstrate the significance of your experience, the most difficult, complex, largest and successful problem, situation or task that you then successfully resolved. Give enough detail for the interviewer to understand what was involved but no more than a few sentences. Include your role, the organisation and when the example took place.

Briefly describe what you were tasked with, your responsibilities and assignments for the situation, the objectives and desired outcomes. Once again a sentence or two is sufficient.

This will be the section that the interviewer is most interested in and you should detail the actions you took to resolve the problem, situation or task. Describe all of the actions, detailing each stage and in the correct, logical order showing your thought processes, how you reached your conclusions and the steps you completed.

This is the most important part of your answer, because it allows you to highlight in detail what your response was and to clearly show your skills in a real-life scenario.

Remember they want to know about the actions you took , so if you are discussing a group project or task, describe what you did rather than the achievements of the team.

You may feel as if you are being overly descriptive but this is necessary in order to demonstrate that you have the experience of the action you are describing; do not assume that the interviewer will guess or infer what you did merely from your describing the context.

The Result is the second most important part of your answer as a successful outcome proves that your actions were effective. Refer back to the Task, making sure that the intended outcomes match the actual Result. Talk about what you accomplished, what you delivered in terms of benefit, what you learnt and if appropriate, what you would do differently next time.

Give evidence to prove success and this can be in the form of figures or numbers, anything that will show just what a winning outcome you delivered. Third party feedback is another great token of evidence so mention positive feedback you received from your manager, team or others.

Finally, talk about what you learned and how this learning will help you in the job being recruited for.

Get Expert STAR Interview Answers Written For You With InterviewGold

How to use the star method to make your interview answers really stand out.

Here’s a secret – it’s all in the Story!

Would you read a book that was boring? No, probably not and you would not recommend it to your friends.

And how many pages would you read before you concluded it was boring? Some might persevere to the end, but most would give up after maybe 20 or 30 pages.

The point I am trying to make is that your answer, your story must be gripping and it must grab the attention of the Interviewers in the first few sentences.

2 Key Factors That Make a Good Interview Answer Great

Almost all Competency Based and Behavioural Interview Questions ask you to provide an example that details a situation you have taken part in.

As straightforward a request as this is, not being prepared with a solid example may cause you to ramble, which could result in a poor score.

The best and most effective way to deliver a high scoring competency interview answer depends on:

• Choosing the right structure
• Choosing the right example

As regards the right structure we have looked at using the STAR method above. In the InterviewGold online training system we teach two other formulas, the IPAR and CARL methods, both of which are powerful techniques which you an use an an alternative to STAR.

Tips on Choosing Examples for Your STAR Interview Answer

Choosing the right example is vital. It must be relevant and real and here are our top tips:

Relevant: Make sure that the example is relevant to the role for which you are being interviewed and clearly relates to the competency being explored. For example, if talking about Making Effective Decisions you should make specific reference to what the decision was, what data you gathered and used, what process you followed and how you met the objectives successfully while dealing with obstacles.

Complex: The task or project must be sufficiently complex for the role. It should also have been long enough in duration and complex enough in terms of actions completed to adequately demonstrate the skills required at this level. Choose one where you had to use other competencies at the same time. In addition make sure that you can talk about problems or obstacles overcome.

Impact: Choose an example with impact in terms of scale, reach, growth, results delivered or improvement made.

Not sure what examples to talk about in your STAR interview answers? InterviewGold gives you detailed lessons with lots of ideas of examples to choose.

Sample STAR Interview Answer to Inspire Your Interview Success

So let’s look at how to use the STAR method in a practical example. We will choose the Problem Solving competency however the method can be used for any competency or skill. Use this example to inspire your own interview answers; think about your own situation and the role you are being interview for and search for relevant and real examples you can use.

How would you answer the question? Can you think of any examples of when you used these skills successfully?

Keep in mind that your answer should be told in a story format to keep the interviewer’s interest. Here is an example situation forming part of an answer using the STAR method.

Competency Question: Tell me about a time when you used your initiative to resolve a complex problem. What was involved and what actions did you take?

Last year while working as Customer Focus Manager with ABC Products Ltd in London, I successfully implemented a new process which reduced the time taken to process customer refunds from 14 days to 2 days, saving over £100,000 annually in agent time and gaining a 50% uplift in customer approval ratings.

In that single opening they are hooked, they know what your story is about, they know you have done something great and they want to hear more.

The next part of the answer is the Task and this should be summarised in no more than 1 or 2 sentences.

Our customer refund process was taking 14 days and was using up an excessive amount of agent time and resources. I was tasked with reducing this to 2 days with the added benefit of saving time and resources.

That’s all they need to know – no more.

I initiated the project by firstly clearly defining the objectives and the procedures.

I completed a walk-through of the existing system and identified where problems were occurring.

I interviewed the agents involved to gather their input into both the current system and their ideas of what they thought would work well. I believed this to be vital as I knew I needed to get them on my side in order to implement the new process.

With all that knowledge, I designed a new process and created a brief that both analysed the problem and outlined the potential benefits of the new process. I then forwarded this to four software companies who specialise in the system we needed.

I considered their alternative approaches and compared each in terms of cost and ease of functionality, discussing with the agents. After having a demonstration and on hands testing, I selected our preferred supplier.

After presentation and consultation with my management team I organised a project team tasked with implementing this new system.

I set up a process for internal and external feedback and communication, ensuring that everyone involved was on board and up to speed.

Throughout, I successfully managed the team members, updated and revised project milestones as necessary and in the end delivered a system that performed superbly.

We always like to see some numbers which demonstrate the scale of the project. So you can simply repeat the outcome that you used in your Introduction as this emphasis the great success you had.

I was very pleased with the outcome. I reduced the time taken to process customer refunds from 14 days to 2 days, saving over £100,000 annually in agent time. It was also a great result from the customers point of view and we gained a 50% uplift in customer approval ratings for the team. Even more pleasing was the fact that the Board of Directors awarded me a prize for top performing team leader as a result of this project.

As you can see this answer is punchy, exciting and demonstrates more clearly the actions completed in a step by step way.

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Remember: You Must Include the Correct Behaviours in Your STAR Interview Answer

When creating interview answers using the STAR method keep in mind that the other key feature of Competency Based Interviews is that your answers will be scored against pre–determined results. These are called Behaviours and can be positive and negative. For example, looking at Communication skills, the positive behaviours the interviewer will look for may include:

• Develops messages using structure and logical order
• Tailors content of messages to meet the needs and interests of the audience
• Conveys messages in a clear and concise manner in language appropriate to the receiver
• Checks understanding of the audience and adapts messages and tone accordingly
• Uses most effective channels as appropriate to the situation

STAR method behaviours for Leadership for example will require you to show an ability to be a role model, to engage with your team effectively and to promote inclusivity and diversity. Ultimately you will need to show that you have inspired and motivated those around you to achieve goals both within your department and outside.

1. Use Real Examples

When considering how to answer, I strongly recommend using authentic examples from your past experiences, as opposed to giving a fabricated or made up account.

2. Avoid Stock Answers

It is tempting to use a competency answer from a book or online and pass it off as your own. I strongly recommend against this. Instead, use the methods and advice outlined here to develop your own personal answers. This will help you avoid a potentially awkward situation during your interview, should you be asked to elaborate on a particular point.

3. Keep it Relevant

You should also take great care to ensure that your answers are relevant to the question being asked. They need to contain a sufficient amount of detail. Show a strong command of the core competency and clearly demonstrate that you are skilled at using it.

4. Check the Job Description and Person Specification

Study the job description and person specification thoroughly so that you completely grasp exactly what core competencies are essential to the position. Use this information to develop and rehearse relevant examples of past situations where you applied these skills.

5. It’s all about I

Always make liberal use of ‘I’. In fact, every one of your answers should be in the first person; always choose ‘I’ over ‘we,’ even in cases where you are discussing a past team collaboration.

6. Review your CV

Carefully examine your resume / curriculum vitae to fully prepare your responses, and devise competency interview answers which correspond to your highlights and achievements. Doing this will provide you with plenty of useful information that you can then use effectively no matter what type of competency question you are asked.

7. Get Jotting

Even making a bulleted list in advance as opposed to devising full answers can be helpful. This will ensure your examples will be fresh and at the forefront of your thoughts during the interview.

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STAR Method Finally Explained (The Only Guide You Need)

If you’ve ever found yourself in a job interview, wracking your brain to deliver concise yet compelling responses, then this guide is for you.

We’re about to dive deep into the STAR Method – a tried and tested technique that’s your secret weapon to ace any interview.

The STAR method is a structured technique used to answer behavioral interview questions. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This approach allows the interviewee to provide clear, concise, and thoughtful answers based on real-life examples from their own experiences.

Let’s dive in and discover how this powerful technique can transform your interviewing skills.

Understanding the STAR Method: The Basics

The STAR method is not just an interview response strategy; it’s a structured approach that helps you present your experiences and skills in a way that leaves a lasting impression on your potential employer.

Here are some key aspects of the STAR method that further illuminate its importance:

• Specificity : The STAR method encourages you to focus on specific situations rather than generalities. This allows interviewers to see exactly how you apply your skills in real-world scenarios.
• Structure : By following the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework, you ensure your responses are organized and coherent. It also ensures you don’t miss out on any critical details.
• Relevance : With STAR, you can tailor your answers to demonstrate how your past experiences directly align with the job requirements.
• Evidence-Based : Rather than simply stating that you have certain skills, the STAR method enables you to provide concrete examples where these skills have been put into action.

However, while the STAR method is an excellent tool for answering behavioral interview questions effectively, it’s not always applicable.

For instance:

• Not all interview questions require a detailed story or example. Some may simply need direct answers.
• In some instances, there might be more emphasis on future actions (e.g., “How would you handle…?”) rather than past situations.

Historical Origins: The Genesis Of The STAR Method

The STAR technique, a renowned method for answering behavioral interview questions, didn’t just appear out of the blue.

Its roots can be traced back to the 1980s when it was developed by psychologists as part of the structured behavioral interview methodology.

The goal was to create an approach that would allow employers to objectively assess a candidate’s potential based on their past experiences and behaviors.

In its early days, the STAR concept was primarily used within large corporations with dedicated human resources departments. These organizations saw value in a standardized approach that could help them sift through numerous applicants while minimizing bias.

Over time, however, the technique gained wider acceptance beyond corporate walls. It started being adopted by small businesses, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and even individuals preparing for job interviews. Today, it’s considered a gold standard in behavioral interviewing across industries worldwide.

While it has evolved over time with variations like STAR-L (where L stands for Learning), at its core remains the same principle: using past behavior as the best predictor of future performance .

This focus on concrete examples rather than hypothetical scenarios sets it apart from other interviewing techniques and contributes significantly to its ongoing popularity among hiring professionals around the globe.

Breaking Down The STAR Method (A Step-By-Step Guide)

At its core, the STAR method is about storytelling.

It allows you to weave together narratives from your past experiences that not only answer an interviewer’s question but also highlight relevant skills and competencies.

Let’s break down the components:

• Situation : Set the scene
• Task : Define your responsibilities
• Action : Describe what steps you took
• Result : Highlight the outcomes

This four-step framework helps ensure that every example you give during an interview is easy to follow and highlights your abilities effectively.

It’s important to note that while the STAR method may seem straightforward on paper, its real-world application requires practice and finesse.

The aim isn’t just to structure responses but also to deliver them in a compelling manner that resonates with interviewers.

Situation: Defining And Setting The Scene

Diving straight into the first element of the STAR method, let’s explore ‘ Situation ‘.

This is where you set the stage for your story. But don’t just think of it as a simple backdrop; this is your chance to draw your interviewer – into your narrative.

Start by providing context .

What was the environment like? Was it a high-pressure sales team chasing ambitious targets, or an under-resourced non-profit struggling to meet community needs?

Perhaps it was a start-up on the verge of significant expansion, or a well-established corporation navigating a challenging market downturn?

Next, identify any key players involved.

Were there colleagues who played pivotal roles? Or maybe external stakeholders like clients, suppliers, or regulatory bodies that influenced the situation?

Remember, details are crucial here but be careful not to get lost in them.

Your goal is to provide enough information so that anyone listening can understand what you were up against without getting bogged down in unnecessary specifics.

This isn’t just about painting a picture of your past work environment. You’re laying out the particular circumstances surrounding the challenge you faced. So clearly define what made this situation unique or difficult.

For example, instead of saying, “I was working as a project manager at a software company”, add more context : “I was overseeing a critical software development project at XYZ Corp., one of our biggest clients had requested an advanced feature within an extremely tight deadline.”

This gives depth and adds complexity to your situation – showing you weren’t just performing routine tasks but dealing with demanding situations.

Task: Detailing Your Specific Responsibilities

In the STAR method, the ‘Task’ component is where you’ll outline your specific responsibilities in a given situation.

When detailing your task, clarity is crucial. You want the interviewer to understand exactly what was expected of you.

Start by describing any objectives or goals that were set for you at the outset. Were there targets or KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) that you had to meet? Did you have a deadline?

These details help paint a picture of the pressure or challenges involved in your task.

Next, consider any constraints or limitations that might have been present. For instance, did you have limited resources, such as time, budget, or manpower? Were there any particular rules or regulations that needed to be adhered to?

Mentioning these elements can highlight how demanding your task was and set up a compelling narrative for how you overcame these obstacles.

Also crucial in this section is demonstrating an understanding of who benefited from your tasks – whether it was clients, colleagues, stakeholders, or even broader society.

By doing this, not only are you showing awareness of your role within a larger context but also emphasizing its significance.

Avoid being too generic or vague. Instead of saying “I managed a team,” say something like “I was responsible for leading a five-person team tasked with developing a comprehensive marketing strategy within two weeks.” The latter gives more depth and provides a clearer picture of what exactly your task entailed.

Don’t shy away from using industry-specific jargon if it helps illustrate your point better. However, ensure it doesn’t cloud comprehension for those outside your field – balance technical language with layman terms when necessary.

Action: Describing The Steps You Took

Taking action is the critical core of the STAR Method.

It’s where you get to demonstrate your problem-solving skills, initiative, and ability to adapt in real-time situations.

Here’s how you can effectively describe the steps you took:

• Be Specific: Avoid vague descriptions. Instead, delve into the exact steps you undertook to address the situation or task at hand. Did you organize a team meeting? Implement a new software system? Develop a marketing strategy? The more specific, the better.
• Showcase Your Skills: This is your chance to highlight your unique abilities and strengths. Focus on actions that underline key competencies such as leadership, teamwork, creativity, resilience, or strategic thinking.
• Use Active Language: Frame your actions with dynamic verbs like ‘spearheaded’, ‘negotiated’, ‘engineered’, or ‘orchestrated’. This makes your actions more impactful and engaging for the reader.
• Sequence Your Actions: Detailing your actions in chronological order helps provide clarity and paints a vivid picture of how events unfolded.
• Quantify Where Possible: If you can attach numbers or percentages to illustrate your action’s impact – do it! For example: “I led a team of five members,” “We increased sales by 20%,” or “I reduced project delivery time by two weeks.”
• Highlight Challenges Overcome: If any obstacles arose during this phase and you successfully navigated them, be sure to include these details too—it adds depth and demonstrates resilience.
• Include Collaborative Efforts: If your action involved others (e.g., colleagues, stakeholders), mention their involvement to show your ability to work effectively within a team.

Result: Highlighting The Outcomes Of Your Actions

In the STAR method, the Result is your shining moment, your chance to highlight the outcomes of your actions.

The key here is to quantify your success whenever possible. Numbers speak volumes in an interview setting.

Did you increase sales by 20%? Reduce customer complaints by 50%? Or perhaps you streamlined a process that saved 10 hours of work each week? These are powerful statements that can establish you as a problem-solver who gets results.

But what if your result wasn’t quantifiable or didn’t end in absolute success? That’s okay too! What matters is that you show progress, learning, and growth.

Perhaps your action led to improved team morale or better communication within the department. Maybe it paved the way for future improvements or sparked new ideas for innovation.

Remember, not all results have to be earth-shattering successes. Sometimes, they’re stepping stones towards bigger victories down the line.

Another point worth noting is that results should ideally tie back to the company’s goals or values. This shows alignment with their mission and demonstrates how you could contribute if hired.

For instance, if applying for a role in a company known for its customer service excellence, highlighting a result where you resolved a complex client issue and retained their business would resonate well with interviewers.

Lastly, ensure your result answers this question: “What was different because of what I did?” This keeps you focused on showcasing the impact of your actions rather than just listing tasks completed.

Benefits Of Using The STAR Method

The STAR method stands out for a myriad of reasons, offering a multitude of benefits that make it an indispensable tool in your interview arsenal.

• Structured Responses : The STAR method offers a clear framework for detailing your experiences. By organizing your answer into the four key components – Situation, Task, Action, and Result – you give comprehensive insights into your past roles. This not only paints a full picture for the interviewer but also underscores your thorough understanding of your experiences.
• Showcase Soft Skills : Instead of merely narrating events, the STAR method emphasizes how you navigated those events. It lets you highlight vital skills such as problem-solving, leadership, initiative, and creativity—attributes employers are eager to see in potential candidates.
• Promote Specificity : With the STAR method, generic responses won’t cut it. This approach nudges you to share specific instances where you’ve demonstrated pivotal skills or achieved noteworthy results. Detailed answers are not only more memorable but also evidence your capacity to yield real-world results.
• Versatility : Its adaptability is one of the STAR method’s strongest suits. It’s effective in various interview styles, be it behavioral, competency-based, or panel interviews. Whether discussing teamwork, conflict resolution, or project management, the STAR method ensures your answers are always rooted in real-life experiences.
• Enhances Self-Awareness : Regularly using the STAR method encourages introspection. Reflecting on past events—both triumphs and missteps—helps foster a culture of continuous learning and personal growth.

By utilizing the STAR method—you’re not just recounting events; you’re showcasing problem-solving abilities under pressure (Situation), organizational skills (Task), initiative & resourcefulness (Action), and the ability to achieve desired outcomes (Result).

Tips To Craft Your STAR Responses

Crafting your own STAR responses can feel like a daunting task, but with the right strategies and practice, it’s a skill you can master.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you along the way:

• Start with Specifics : The more specific you can be about the situation or task, the better. Vague or generalized descriptions can make it harder for interviewers to understand what you did and why it mattered.
• Action is Key : This is where you get to shine! Detail every step of your action plan – from conception to execution. Show how your actions directly contributed to resolving the situation or completing the task at hand.
• Quantify Your Results : Whenever possible, try to quantify your results. Did you increase sales by 20%? Improve efficiency by 35%? Cut down project delivery time by half? Numbers provide concrete evidence of your achievements.
• Keep It Relevant : Make sure that your STAR response aligns with the job role you’re applying for. If you’re interviewing for a leadership position, highlight situations where you led a team or made crucial decisions.
• Practice Out Loud : This might seem awkward at first, but saying your responses out loud will help them sound more natural during an actual interview.
• Be Honest : Never exaggerate or fabricate elements of your story – honesty is always best in interview scenarios.
• Use Varied Examples : Don’t rely on one experience for all questions; diversify your examples from different areas of work life – projects, teamwork, leadership instances etc.
• Review Job Description : Align examples with key skills/attributes mentioned in job description for maximum impact.
• Think About Lessons Learned : Every experience comes with lessons learned – reflecting on these shows growth mindset and continuous learning attitude which employers value highly.
• Stay Calm & Composed : Interview situations can be stressful, but maintaining a calm and composed demeanor will help you articulate your responses better.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Using the STAR Method

For a compelling STAR response, avoid these common mistakes:

• Being too vague : When describing the Situation or Task, many individuals fail to provide enough detail. This leaves interviewers wondering about the context or importance of your actions and results. Avoid this by being specific about what was happening and why it mattered.
• Skipping steps : Each element of STAR is vital for painting a complete picture. Don’t rush through or skip any part of the process—especially Action and Result—as this can leave gaps in your story.
• Focusing on group achievements : While teamwork is important, remember that the goal here is to highlight your skills and contributions. Make sure you’re focusing on what you did, not just your team.
• Neglecting the Result : Some people concentrate so much on the Situation, Task, and Action that they forget to adequately address the Result. Remember, outcomes matter! Be clear about what changed as a result of your actions.
• Over-rehearsing : While practice is important, sounding too rehearsed can come off as insincere or robotic. Keep it natural; let your passion for what you’ve achieved shine through.
• Not aligning with job requirements : Always keep in mind what competencies or qualities the interviewer is looking for and tailor your response accordingly.
• Ignoring non-verbal cues : Body language matters! Maintain eye contact, use open body language, and show enthusiasm through your tone of voice and facial expressions.
• Not learning from past experiences : Use feedback from previous interviews to refine your responses continually.

To avoid these pitfalls:

• Practice crafting detailed yet concise responses.
• Ensure you cover all elements of STAR without neglecting any.
• Highlight personal contributions and achievements.
• Align your responses with the job requirements.
• Pay attention to non-verbal cues.
• Use feedback to improve.

Real-World Examples: STAR Method In Action

Theory is one thing, but practical application is another.

Let’s delve into some real-world examples that illustrate how the STAR method can be employed effectively.

Example 1: A Project Manager Role

Consider a scenario where you’re interviewing for a project manager role and you’re asked, “Can you describe a time when you had to manage a particularly challenging project?”

• Situation : You could start by setting the scene – “At my previous job, I was given the responsibility of managing a project that involved implementing a new software system across all departments.”
• Task : Then, detail your specific responsibilities – “As the Project Manager, it was my duty to ensure smooth coordination between all departments and complete implementation within six months.”
• Action : Next, describe your actions – “I started by conducting meetings with each department head to understand their unique needs. I then created an implementation schedule and assigned tasks to team members based on their expertise. Regular progress meetings were scheduled to address any issues promptly.”
• Result : Finally, highlight the outcomes – “The new software system was successfully implemented across all departments within five months – one month ahead of schedule.”

Example 2: A Customer Service Role

Now imagine you’re interviewing for a customer service position and are asked, “Tell me about a time when you turned around an unhappy customer.”

• Situation : Start by painting the picture – “In my previous role as Customer Service Representative at XYZ Company, I received a call from an irate customer who had received an incorrect product.”
• Task : Detail your responsibilities – “My task was not only to resolve this issue but also to regain the customer’s trust in our company.”
• Action : Describe what steps you took – “I apologized sincerely for our mistake and assured her that we would rectify it immediately. I arranged for express shipping of the correct product along with return postage for the incorrect item. Additionally, I provided a discount code for her next purchase as a gesture of goodwill.”
• Result : Highlight the outcomes – “The customer was appreciative of how we handled the situation and continued to be a loyal customer.”

Adapting STAR For Different Interview Types

The beauty of the STAR technique lies in its universal applicability.

Whether you’re facing a panel, competency-based, behavioral, or even a stress interview, STAR can be your guiding light.

• Panel Interviews : With multiple eyes and ears on you, clarity is crucial. Using the STAR method, structure your answers so that every interviewer grasps your role and its impact. Address each element of your experience, ensuring you resonate with everyone on the panel.
• Competency-Based Interviews : Here, interviewers are seeking proof of specific skills. Lean into the ‘Task’ and ‘Action’ components of STAR. For instance, when discussing leadership, detail a time you led a team, the responsibilities you shouldered, actions you took, and the team’s achievements.
• Behavioral Interviews : These look to past scenarios as indicators of future behavior. Lay out the situation, your role, your actions, and the outcomes using STAR. This structured approach offers a tangible glimpse into your problem-solving and decision-making processes.
• Stress Interviews : While these are designed to see how you fare under pressure, the ‘Action’ component of STAR lets you highlight your adeptness at navigating challenges.

Variations To STAR: STAR-L (With Learning) And Beyond

As you become more comfortable with the STAR method, you may find yourself seeking ways to add depth and nuance to your responses.

One such variation is the STAR-L method, where ‘L’ stands for ‘Learning.’ This model carries you one step further by asking you to reflect on what you learned from the situation.

In this framework, after describing the Situation, Task, Action, and Result (STAR), you elaborate on what Lessons were gleaned from that experience.

This additional step showcases your ability to engage in self-reflection and continuous learning – two assets highly valued in today’s rapidly evolving work environment.

For instance, if your original STAR response was about a project where you led a team through a challenging deadline crunch and achieved success, in the STAR-L method, you might add that the experience taught you about the importance of clear communication or how better planning could have prevented such a tight deadline.

Beyond STAR-L are other variations like STAR-AR (Action-Result) or even SAR (Situation-Action-Result).

These versions are often used when interviewers want more emphasis on actions taken and their direct outcomes rather than focusing too much on context or task details.

The choice between these methods largely depends on the nature of your role and industry.

For example, roles requiring strategic decision-making might benefit more from using STAR-L to highlight learnings from past experiences. In contrast, positions focused on immediate results might prefer SAR or STAR-AR.

Comparing STAR: Differences From PAR (Problem, Action, Result) & CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) Techniques

The STAR method stands distinct from its counterparts – PAR (Problem, Action, Result) and CAR (Challenge, Action, Result).

While they all share a common thread of structuring responses in a clear and concise manner, there are subtle differences that set them apart.

• The STAR method provides a complete narrative by including situational context.
• The PAR method focuses primarily on problem-solving abilities.
• The CAR technique emphasizes resilience in overcoming challenges.

The STAR method is comprehensive in nature as it not only focuses on the problem at hand but also delves into the context or situation that led to it. This enables you to provide a detailed background before explaining your specific role or task. You then proceed to explain your actions and finally emphasize the results achieved.

On the other hand, the PAR technique zeroes in on identifying a Problem first. The focus here is more on problem-solving skills rather than situational context. After identifying a problem, you describe your action taken to resolve it and end with discussing the result. While this approach is direct-to-the-point, it may lack depth without setting up an initial context.

Similarly, the CAR technique begins by outlining a Challenge faced. The emphasis is on overcoming adversity or challenge rather than focusing solely on problem-solving. After describing how you tackled the challenge (Action), you discuss the result achieved.

Incorporating Emotion: The Role Of Feelings In STAR Responses

Incorporating emotion into your STAR responses can be a game-changer.

Emotion, when appropriately expressed, adds a layer of authenticity and relatability that can make your narrative more compelling.

It’s not just about what you did but how you felt while doing it.

Remember that interviews are not just an evaluation of your technical skills or experiences; they’re also about understanding who you are as a person.

Your emotions can indicate passion, dedication, resilience, and empathy – qualities that often define great employees.

When setting the scene in the ‘Situation’ step of STAR, don’t shy away from expressing how the situation made you feel. Were you daunted by the challenge? Excited at the prospect? This helps paint a vivid picture and draws your interviewer into the story.

During the ‘Task’ phase, sharing your emotional state can help showcase your motivation levels and commitment to tackling challenges head-on. Did the task fill you with dread or did it spark determination?

As you move on to ‘Action’, feelings play an integral role in demonstrating your work ethic and character. Were you frustrated when things didn’t go as planned? How did overcoming obstacles make you feel? These details provide depth to your response and highlight personal growth.

Finally, in discussing ‘Results’, emotions can emphasize the significance of your achievements. Was there a sense of relief or accomplishment? Did it boost your confidence or reaffirm your abilities?

However, there’s a delicate balance to strike here. Over-emphasizing emotions might make you come across as overly dramatic or unprofessional.

Keep it genuine and relevant; every emotional reference should serve to enhance understanding of your actions and results.

Pay attention to positive emotions – they leave interviewers with an optimistic impression of both past experiences and potential future performance. Negative emotions aren’t off-limits but frame them as part of learning curves or stepping stones towards success.

Role Of Non-Verbal Cues: Enhancing STAR Responses With Body Language

Non-verbal cues are the unspoken elements of communication that can significantly influence how your STAR responses are perceived.

Here’s how you can harness them effectively:

• Eye Contact : This is a primary indicator of confidence and honesty. As you detail the Situation or Task, direct eye contact shows you’re genuinely recounting your experiences and engaging with the interviewer.
• Posture : Your posture speaks volumes. Sit upright to show attentiveness. As you delve into the Action phase of your STAR response, a slight forward lean can subtly indicate your enthusiasm and engagement.
• Hand Gestures : These can breathe life into your narratives. Used rightly, gestures can make your Actions and Results more tangible. However, moderation is key—ensure your movements are purposeful and not distracting.
• Facial Expressions : They mirror your inner emotions. A genuine, relaxed smile or a thoughtful expression during the Result phase can underscore the positive outcomes of your story.
• Tone of Voice : Though not strictly ‘body language’, it is a pivotal non-verbal cue. Introduce variations in pitch to keep the interviewer engaged.

Remember, consistency between what you say (your STAR responses) and how you say it (your non-verbal cues) is key for effective communication during interviews.

Feedback Mechanisms: How To Refine Your STAR Responses

Feedback is crucial when mastering the STAR method for interviews.

By incorporating diverse feedback mechanisms, you can refine your answers for maximum impact.

Here’s how:

• Self-Evaluation : After practicing, pause and assess. Did you address the Situation, Task, Action, and Result effectively? Were there moments you lost focus? Recognizing your own strengths and pitfalls is the first step to improvement.
• Peer Review : Invite a friend or mentor to listen to your answers. Their external viewpoint can pinpoint areas that need refinement. Ask for feedback on both content and delivery, such as maintaining eye contact and speaking confidently.
• Record and Review : Film yourself during mock interviews. Observing yourself offers insights into non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions, helping you make necessary adjustments.
• Seek Professional Guidance : A career coach or interview expert can offer seasoned insights, enhancing the depth and delivery of your responses.
• Embrace AI Feedback Tools : Several online platforms now provide AI-driven feedback on aspects like speech clarity, emotional tone, and response coherence. They can be a unique and modern tool in your preparation arsenal.

Refinement doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual process that involves constant practice and willingness to learn from feedback received.

Practice Makes Perfect: Tips For Rehearsing STAR Answers

Naturally, the best way to master the STAR method is through practice.

Here are some strategic tips to guide you in rehearsing your STAR answers.

• Identify Potential Questions: Begin by identifying common interview questions related to your field or role. These questions will serve as a basis for your STAR responses. Look for those that ask about specific situations, tasks, actions, and results.
• Draft Your Responses: Once you’ve identified potential questions, draft your answers using the STAR format. Be specific and detailed in each section—Situation, Task, Action, Result—to paint a clear picture of your experience.
• Use Real-Life Experiences: Make sure to use real-life examples from your past experiences—whether they’re from previous jobs, volunteer work, or even academic projects. This not only makes it easier for you to remember details but also adds authenticity to your response.
• Rehearse Out Loud: Practicing out loud allows you to hear how your responses sound and gives you an opportunity to refine them further. Try practicing in front of a mirror or record yourself for playback; this can help identify any areas of awkwardness or confusion in your delivery.
• Get Feedback: Ask someone—a mentor, colleague or friend—to listen to your responses and provide feedback. They can point out any inconsistencies or gaps in your story that you may have missed.
• Time Yourself: While it’s important to be thorough with your responses, keep in mind that recruiters don’t want overly long answers either. Aim for two minutes per response—a stopwatch can help keep track!
• Adapt and Refine: Based on the feedback received and self-assessment done during rehearsal sessions, adapt and refine your responses until they’re polished and succinct.
• Keep It Fresh: Don’t memorize word-for-word as this can make you sound robotic during interviews; instead understand the key points you want to convey.

Evaluating Success: How Interviewers Assess STAR Responses

Interviewers are adept at assessing STAR responses, and they look for several key elements to gauge the success of your answer.

Understanding these criteria can help you tailor your responses more effectively.

• Relevance: First and foremost, interviewers assess whether the Situation, Task, Action, and Result you present align with the question asked or the competency being evaluated. Your response must be directly relevant to demonstrate that you understand what’s being asked of you.
• Specificity: Vague answers can leave interviewers guessing about your abilities. They prefer specific scenarios that showcase concrete actions taken and tangible results achieved. The more detailed your answer without rambling, the better.
• Action Orientation: Interviewers want to see that you’re a doer. They will evaluate how much of your story focuses on the actions you took versus background details or other people’s contributions.
• Result Impact: Your result should not just be a successful outcome; it should have had a significant impact on your team, project, or organization. Interviewers look for this to gauge how effective and influential you are in your role.
• Consistency: Consistency between what you say and what is known about you from other sources (like references or LinkedIn) adds credibility to your STAR response.
• Behavioral Indicators: Interviewers often use behavioral indicators to understand how likely it is that past behavior will predict future performance in similar situations.
• Non-verbal Cues: Your body language, tone of voice, facial expressions – all these non-verbal cues play a role in how well your STAR response is received.
• Learning Reflections: Some interviewers also appreciate when candidates reflect on their experiences and articulate what they learned from them or how they would improve their approach in future similar scenarios.

In conclusion, mastering the STAR method is not just about acing job interviews.

It’s a powerful tool that enhances your communication skills , helping you to present yourself in the best possible light.

Remember, like any skill, perfecting the STAR method requires practice and patience. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges; instead, consider them as opportunities for learning and growth.

Use feedback constructively to refine your responses until they truly shine.

And don’t forget the power of non-verbal cues – a confident posture and genuine smile can add a whole new dimension to your story!

The STAR method is more than a technique; it’s a strategy for success. So go ahead – embrace it, and let your star shine bright!

877 Interview Blog Names To Spotlight Your Unique Voice

The Editorial Team at InterviewGuy.com is composed of certified interview coaches, seasoned HR professionals, and industry insiders. With decades of collective expertise and access to an unparalleled database of interview questions, we are dedicated to empowering job seekers. Our content meets real-time industry demands, ensuring readers receive timely, accurate, and actionable advice. We value our readers' insights and encourage feedback, corrections, and questions to maintain the highest level of accuracy and relevance.

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30 star method interview questions to prepare for

Almost every job interview has a set of behavioral questions. They usually start with “Tell me about a time when…” and they can catch job seekers off guard if they’re unprepared. 

There are a variety of different interview types, from typical structured interviews to a group interview. The good news? There’s a secret recipe that’ll help you prepare for and ace these tricky questions. 

Known as the STAR interview method, this technique is a way of concisely answering certain job interview questions using specific, real-life examples. 

For example, say your interviewer asks you to describe a time you performed under pressure. Using the STAR technique, you can prove you’re able to perform well under pressure by giving an example from your past experiences. 

Let’s explore what the STAR method is, how to prepare for a behavioral question, and how you can use this technique to help you land your next job.

What is the STAR interview method? 

The STAR method is a technique used to answer behavioral interview questions in a structured and compelling way. Behavioral questions prompt job candidates to give specific examples of how they’ve handled past situations or challenges. 

These are questions like:

• Tell me about a time you had to pivot part of the way through a project.
• How do you handle collaborative workstreams?

It can be challenging to share a cohesive example on the spot. But with the right preparation and a STAR interview structure, you can have some answers ready to go.

What are the 4 steps in STAR?

The acronym STAR stands for –– situation , task , action , result :

• Situation : Set the scene by briefly describing the situation, challenge, or event you faced.
• Task : Explain what your responsibilities were in that situation. What role did you play?
• Action : Describe what steps you took to overcome the challenge or address the situation 
• Result : Share what you achieved through your actions.

Each pillar helps you tell an in-depth yet short story with a beginning, middle, and end.

Structuring your STAR interview responses

• Situation : Briefly set the scene with relevant context (1-2 sentences).
• Task : Describe your responsibility or the goal you needed to achieve (1-2 sentences).
• Action : Explain the specific steps you took to address the situation, focusing on your contributions (3-4 sentences).
• Result : Share the positive outcomes, using measurable results if possible (2-3 sentences).

Example STAR Response:

Question : Tell me about a time when you faced a challenging problem at work.

• Situation : "I was working as a retail manager during the busy holiday season when one of our major shipments was delayed."
• Task : "I needed to ensure we still met our sales targets despite the delay."
• Action : "I coordinated with other store locations to redistribute stock, increased our online promotions, and organized a local supplier to provide alternative products."
• Result : "We not only met but exceeded our sales targets by 15% for the season, and customer satisfaction ratings improved by 10%."

25 examples of STAR questions in an interview

But how do you know when it’s the right time to use the STAR format during an interview? 

It’s simple: be on the lookout for behavioral questions. They usually start with prompts like these:

• Tell me about a time …
• Share an example of a time…
• Describe a time when…
• Have you ever…
• Do you usually…

Here are a few specific examples of behavioral interview questions to answer with the STAR method: 

• Have you ever had to develop a new skill on the job? Tell me about your approach to the learning process. 
• Describe a time when you had a tight deadline to meet. How did you get things done? 
• Have you ever had a direct disagreement with your manager ? How did you handle that situation? 
• Tell me about one of your proudest professional accomplishments. 
• Describe a time you motivated your team to achieve results. What was your approach?
• How do you go about setting team goals ?
• Give me an example of a time when you failed to hit your goals. How did you respond and what did you do?
• Have you ever had to push back on a key stakeholder? What did that interaction look like?
• Describe the projects you typically enjoy most.
• Share an example of a time when you had to shift priorities quickly. How did you handle that situation?
• Have you ever managed an employee who wasn’t hitting the mark ? How did you handle the situation?
• Share an example of a time when you went above and beyond what is expected of your role.
• Share an example of a project you needed buy-in from various stakeholders to complete. 
• Explain a situation where you overcame a challenge at work.
• Tell me about a time when you had to navigate changes at work.
• Describe a time when you had to motivate your peers. How did you do it and what was the outcome?
• Tell me about the last project you owned and were really proud of.
• Share a time when things did not go your way. How did you respond and what did you learn?
• Share an example of a time when you were under immense pressure at work. How did you handle the situation?
• Tell me about a time when you surprised yourself.
• Have you ever spent too much time on a project? How did you recover?
• Describe a time when you helped a coworker achieve their goals.
• Give me an example of a time when you performed well under pressure.
• Tell me about a time when you had to make a tough decision.
• Tell me about a time when you made the wrong decision.

These questions can be challenging if you’re caught unprepared. The STAR interview method helps you prepare and deliver a compelling story that will satisfy the interviewer’s questions and demonstrate why you’re the right person for the role.

How to use the STAR method in an interview

Let’s learn how to use each pillar of the STAR technique to deliver a compelling and structured response to any behavioral or situational interview question . 

1. Situation: Set the stage 

Begin answering the question by giving your interviewer context around the specific situation or challenge you faced. 

Try to limit this part to only a few sentences to set the scene. The bulk of your answer should focus on your actions and results. 

Make sure the situation you’ve chosen clearly demonstrates the skill or capability you’re being asked about and is complex enough for the role you’re interviewing for. 

For example, if it’s a more senior role, choose a situation that involves high stakes and demonstrates your expertise.

2. Task: Explain where you fit in 

Describe the task you had to complete and what your involvement was. 

Similar to the situation portion of your answer, this part should also be brief and to the point. For example, it can be a simple sentence like this one: 

“As the customer experience manager, it was my responsibility to resolve the client’s concern at the first point of contact.”

3. Action: Describe each step 

This is the most important part of your answer because it’s your opportunity to showcase your capabilities. The hiring manager doesn’t just want to hear what you’ve accomplished but how you’ve accomplished it. 

Explain what steps you took to overcome the challenge or reach your goal. Be as specific as possible, describe each step in detail, and avoid vague statements like “I worked really hard.” 

Keep the focus on yourself when answering the question. Use “I” statements and talk about what you specifically did, not what was accomplished as a team.

4. Results: Impress with your achievements 

This is the time to share the results of your actions with your potential employer. What positive impact were you able to achieve? How did you resolve the situation? 

Make sure the outcome is always a positive one. For example, even if you’re asked to describe a time you made a mistake, you should focus on what you learned from the experience. 

Employers love to see measurable results, so don’t forget to quantify your results when you can or back them up with concrete examples.

5 example STAR interview questions and answers

Here are some examples of STAR interview questions and answers to help you ace your next opportunity. 

1. Give me an example of a goal you’ve set and how you achieved it.

The scope of this behavioral question is to determine how you set goals and what steps you take to make sure you meet your objectives.

Situation: When I first transitioned into a sales role at company X, I was a bit shy of meeting my first-quarter sales target. 

Task: This motivated me to not only meet my sales target during my second quarter but exceed it. 

Action: I broke my goal down into smaller weekly goals and changed my sales strategy. I leveraged social selling to find new customers and develop relationships with them. I also asked my sales manager to coach me on my closing techniques and objection handling. 

Result: With this new strategy, I exceeded my sales target by 10%. 

2. Tell me about a time you failed. How did you handle it? 

Being honest about a time you failed shows you have integrity. Just remember to focus on what you learned from the experience. 

Situation: Shortly after I was promoted to senior project manager, I was in charge of leading a project for a major client. This project would typically take about a month to complete, but the client was in a rush and asked if I could have it ready in three weeks. 

Task: Excited that it was my first project, I agreed. Shortly after, I realized I'd need a bit more time to finish it and deliver quality work.

Action: I reached out to the client right away and apologized. I also asked for a three-day extension, and they were generous enough to extend the deadline. 

Result: I managed to finish the project and deliver it before the extended deadline. However, I learned to manage my time better and never overpromise on something I can’t deliver. 

3. Can you describe a time people didn’t see things your way? 

Behavioral questions worded this way are tricky. Author Mak Murphy explains that these questions don’t give away the “correct answer” to see if you reveal your true attitude.

In this case, what the question is trying to ask is, “Describe a time you successfully persuaded someone to see things your way.” 

Situation: I recently led a brainstorming session . The purpose of this session was to create a brand awareness campaign for a product my company was launching. 

Task: One of my teammates and I disagreed on what direction we should take for the campaign. I wanted to focus more on maximizing social media presence, and he wanted to go the brand partnership route.

Action: I asked my colleague to have a one-on-one meeting with me. I asked him to share his ideas and perspective. After listening and offering constructive criticism and feedback , I shared my ideas. 

Result: The conversation helped me see blind spots in my strategy and improve it. I also persuaded my coworker to get on board with my strategy by explaining its rationale. As a result, I merged our ideas and created a successful brand awareness campaign. Our social media engagement and website traffic both saw an increase of over 40%.

4. Tell me about a time when you worked well with a team. 

Teamwork skills, particularly remote teamwork skills, are one of the top competencies that employers are looking for . 

Situation: In my previous job as an event coordinator, I worked with a team of five to plan and execute company events and conferences. Last year, we collaborated on the company’s annual holiday party for over 500 employees.

Task: There were so many moving pieces. Everyone on our team had different responsibilities, but we all had to work as one unit to bring the party to life. 

Action: Even though I was the most junior person on the team, I organized a project management system that would allow us to check in with each other daily. They’d never done this before, but everyone loved the virtual task-tracking features. 

Result: Thanks to the new system, our team meetings were far more productive and we ended up ahead of schedule. Ultimately, our team’s collaboration led to what our CEO called the best holiday party he had ever attended. 

5. Can you share a time when you’ve had to juggle multiple priorities at work? 

Situation: While working as a client success manager at a tech company, one of my colleagues left the company for a new opportunity. My manager asked me to take on some of her responsibilities. 

Task: I had to reprioritize my own clients and projects to make room for her most important ones. It was overwhelming at first, with so many tasks to juggle and my unfamiliarity with my colleague’s book of business. 

Action: I worked through my responsibilities and reprioritized them based on the company’s goals, my availability, and other factors (with a bit of input from my manager). I also came up with ways to automate certain tasks to free up more of my time.

Result: Thanks to new automation efforts and successful prioritizing, none of our clients realized that there had been an internal shift at the company. Our team’s high quality of service was maintained — and I became more efficient in the process .

Why should I use the STAR method? 

It’s easy to get overwhelmed during an interview and forget everything you’ve prepared. The STAR framework is a simple way to provide a good answer, even when you’re feeling nervous. 

But the reasons for using the STAR interview technique go further than that. For one, today’s job market is stronger than ever . A quick search through LinkedIn will show you that there are endless opportunities available for candidates. 

But that doesn't mean it’s easy to land your dream job. In fact, recent research has shown that remote and hybrid jobs are receiving seven times the applicants as in-person positions . 

Standing out during the interview process is key to landing a more flexible, higher-paying, or otherwise better-fitting job. The STAR method is here to help you build your communication skills , tell your authentic story, and ace your next interview .

How do I prepare for STAR interview questions? 

Acing STAR interview questions is all about preparation and practice. The more you prepare, the better equipped you’ll be to use this technique to your advantage. 

Here’s what you need to do before each interview . 

1. Highlight the skills and experience required for the role

• Review the job description thoroughly.
• Identify and highlight the transferable skills and experiences needed for success in the role.
• Example : If the role requires problem-solving skills , you might be asked, “Tell me about a time you faced an unexpected challenge at work. How did you overcome it?”

2. Reflect on previous achievements and wins 

• Using the STAR method, write down specific examples of situations where you demonstrated the competencies relevant to the role.
• Ensure your answers provide concrete and verifiable evidence showing how you dealt with challenges.
• Avoid vague statements; detail the specific steps you took to achieve your desired result.

3. Practice your answers 

• Simulate a real interview to help you feel more prepared and confident.
• Practice with a friend for feedback on what works and what doesn’t.
• If practicing alone, answer the questions out loud to become comfortable vocalizing your responses, making you sound more natural during the interview.

4. Get ready for common behavioral questions 

• Review common behavioral interview questions and use the STAR technique to answer them. 
• Example: You may be asked to describe a time you disagreed with a team member or talk about a time you resolved a work-related conflict . Both questions assess your communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.

5. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

• Develop thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, company culture, and expectations.
• This shows your interest in the position and helps you gather valuable information.

More tips to ace your STAR interview

Ready to put the STAR interview technique into practice? Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind: 

• Use the STAR method to answer behavioral questions, like “Can you share a time when…” 
• STAR stands for situation, task, action, and result and is meant to help you structure your answers to those questions.
• The benefit of the STAR method is that it should help you provide clear and concise answers — be specific, but don’t get caught up in the details. 
• You can prepare to use the STAR method by reflecting on past accomplishments that are relevant to the role you’re interviewing for.
• Don’t forget to practice your answers ahead of time!

Mastering the STAR interview method

This simple yet powerful method will help you ace your next interview by delivering compelling answers that show employers you’re the right person for the job. 

If you’re planning your next career move, partnering with a BetterUp Coach can help. Our world-class coaches offer guidance and support to help you during this transition.

Understand Yourself Better:

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Chris Helvajian

Chris Helvajian is a talent acquisition leader with more than a decade of experience in talent acquisition. He's passionate about creating scalable solutions to resolve recruiting problems at their root. His golden thread is "connecting people to opportunity." Chris is currently a recruiter at BetterUp and received his MBA at Chapman University.

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How To Master the STAR Method For Interview Questions

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Updated 6/5/2022.

Job interviews are stressful, especially when faced with the dreaded behavioral-style interview. Behavioral questions help a hiring manager determine if a candidate also has the skills, experience, and traits to do the job effectively. As Monster puts it, it gives hiring managers an “honest glimpse behind the resume.”

That’s why you need an effective approach to create great answers. Luckily, we’re here to teach you about the STAR method and how, with a little preparation, you can provide answers that are on-point.

What Is the STAR Method?

Considering that behavioral interviews are the second-most popular format , having a strategy is essential. That’s where the STAR method comes into play.

In the simplest sense, the STAR interview method is a technique for answering behavioral interview questions. The STAR method interview approach relies heavily on story-telling strategies. You “show” the hiring manager how you’d handle a situation using examples with a clear beginning, middle, and end for the scenario you present.

“STAR” is actually an acronym in this case. Each letter outlines a component of a great answer, effectively giving you a framework to follow when creating responses to behavioral interview questions.

STAR Stands for Situation, Task, Action & Result

So, STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Let’s take a second to break down exactly what each letter means.

The “situation” is the initiating event that launched the scenario you’re about to discuss . For example, getting an assignment from a manager is a situation. The same goes for encountering an obstacle. Essentially, you’re setting the stage with the situation part of the strategy. 

Think of a situation similar to what the interviewer is asking you about that had a successful outcome. It doesn’t necessarily have to be work-related as long as it’s relevant. Remember to include the who, what, where, when, and how.

The “task” is the aspect of the situation you had to manage . You outline the work that was laid before you, giving the hiring manager insights about your role in the equation.

Describe the task you were responsible for in that situation. Keep it specific but concise. Make sure to highlight any challenges you faced.

The “action” is the part where you describe exactly what you did . How did you complete the task you were assigned? What skills did you use? How did you collaborate with? What traits helped you during the journey?

Remember to focus on skills and characteristics the hiring manager will find desirable, primarily by choosing ones that align with the job and company culture. That way, you come across as a stronger match.

The “result” is functionally a closing to the story . You’re discussing what happened after you were given the task and took action.

Share what the outcome of the situation was and how you specifically contributed to that outcome. What did you accomplish? What did you learn? What were the results of your actions?

When to Use the STAR Method

While there is literally an unlimited amount of possible behavioral questions a hiring manager could ask you, there are several specific categories they all fall into:

• Problem Solving/Planning
• Initiative/Leadership
• Interpersonal Skills/Conflict
• Pressure/Stress

Prior to going in for your interview, make sure you take a hard look at the job you’re applying for and use clues from that to prepare your STAR answers. By picking out what skills the company is specifically looking for or are required for the job, it will help you target your success stories.

Once you have those skills identified, go through your own personal history and background and find success stories that align with those skills.

In fact we we wanted to let you know that we created an amazing free checklist for behavioral questions that covers all the critical info you need when dealing with these tricky types of job interview questions!

Click below to get your free PDF now:

CLICK HERE TO GET THE BEHAVIORAL INTERVIEW CHECKLIST

Common Mistakes While Answering STAR Questions

1. not answering the question at all.

If an interviewer asks you a question and you can’t think of a single specific success story from your past that you can apply to the situation, then tell them that! It’s far better to be honest than make something up.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you get to tell the interviewer to move on to the next question. Instead, you’re going to flip the question back onto yourself and follow up with “…but if I had encountered a situation like that, this is how I would deal with it.”

2. Not being prepared

This one is a no-brainer. Coming up with a story on the spot often means an interviewer is stuck listening to you ramble on and on.

Doing your homework ahead of time means not only will you have your success story prepared, but it will be concise and targeted. We recommend coming up with 3 to 5 success stories that collectively demonstrate a wide variety of common behaviors a hiring manager would be looking for.

3. Being too prepared

Yes, this is possible. You want your story to seem effortless but not so rehearsed as to be robotic. Review your answers before you go in for your interview, but don’t overdo it. Keep it light and conversational rather than rehearsing a story you have practiced word-for-word.

4. Telling a story that is anything but a success

You want the job, right? So why would you tell a story where you fail miserably and learn absolutely nothing from the experience? While it might be a funny story overall, it’s not one that’s going to get you a job.

Telling a story that has absolutely no positive outcome, either from the final results or the lessons you learned, hurts your chances of getting hired; it’s that simple.

5. Telling a story that has nothing to do with the question asked

This goes along with being prepared. Telling a story that is unrelated to the question demonstrates to a hiring manager that you lack focus and attention to detail, two key qualities that every good candidate should possess.

6. Telling a story that makes you seem like an unrealistic superhero

Don’t tell a story where you are “the only employee doing anything right ever.” Nobody is absolutely perfect, and telling a story where you singlehandedly saved the entire company isn’t going to just come off as impossible; it’s going to come off as fiction.

Top 5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of STAR

So, now that you know what you are not supposed to do, let’s focus on what you do need to do to get the most out of the STAR method interview questions.

1. Be prepared

I know we said this above, but it really is a necessity for answering STAR interview questions. Going in with a solid set of targeted success stories will not only make answering them easier for you but will help you highlight to the hiring manager the specific qualities and skills that make you perfect for the position and set you apart from the other candidates.

2. Be specific

The STAR Method is not about being vague and wishy-washy. This goes hand in hand with being prepared. Prior to your interview, you should have identified the skills and qualities the company is looking for. Make sure your stories are specific and targeted. Remember, you need to highlight the behavior that the hiring manager is interested in, and your success story should clearly align with that.

Being vague or general will not only make it difficult for the hiring manager to properly evaluate you, but it will dilute the impact of your success story.

3. Be quantitative

This is very important. Hiring Managers absolutely LOVE numbers, so have solid, tangible results to back up your stories. Did you increase sales for your department by 58% ? Did your actions make your team 89% more efficient? Back up your successes with hard facts and numbers wherever possible.

4. Be concise

Keep your stories short, sweet, and targeted. No extra info or boring details that are irrelevant to the specific question. By embracing brevity, your answers can be more impactful, particularly if you touch on each of the points that make the STAR method of interviewing what it is.

5. Be honest

The last thing you want to do is dazzle your interviewer with a story that isn’t 100% true. Not only do you undermine your credibility down the road if they find out you weren’t honest, but it calls into question their ability to trust you overall…and nobody wants to hire someone they don’t trust.

Example Question and Answer Breakdown

Now that we’ve gone over all this, let’s put it into practice with an example behavioral question and a STAR method interview answer, focusing on problem-solving and initiative with the response.

“Can you tell me about a time you went above and beyond your expected duties?”

Situation : “I was a part of a team working on a presentation meant to help us secure a major new client for our company. The weather was bad, and as a result, my supervisor got caught in a snowstorm and was unable to make it back in time. It looked like we were going to have to cancel the meeting and potentially lose the client.”

Task : “I had been looking for ways to take on more responsibility, so I volunteered to finish up the presentation.”

Action : “I worked with my supervisor via the phone, and between the two of us, we were able to go ahead with the scheduled meeting.”

Result : “As a result of my initiative, we not only landed the client but I was also recommended for a promotion.”

Here’s another question.

“Tell me about a time when you took the lead on a difficult project?”

Here’s our answer broken into the STAR Method. The quality we are highlighting is Leadership:

STAR Method Interview Questions and Answers

While the options above show you how to break down the answers when you use the interview STAR method, having a few more STAR method examples can help you see how the answers flow once they’re together. Here are a few more STAR interview questions and answers to get you headed in the right direction.

1. Can you tell me about a time you were in a stressful situation and how you handled it?

EXAMPLE ANSWER:

“In my last role, a coworker that was handling a large project for a critical client experienced a medical emergency, taking them out of the office unexpectedly for a significant period. The deadline for their project was looming, and there was no way they’d be back in time to handle it.

“My manager reached out and asked me to take over the project. At this point, there was the equivalent of five days’ worth of work and just three days to get it done. The pressure was significant.

“I began by familiarizing myself with the project requirements, as I didn’t have an in-depth understanding initially. Next, I broke down the remaining tasks into micro-goals, creating a functional roadmap for success. Then, I blocked out each responsibility on my calendar. As I did, I determined that overtime would be necessary, so I quickly secured the needed approval using my plan to outline why it was essential.

“After that, I took a deep breath and got to work. Additionally, I engaged with colleagues to expedite various pieces, such as supporting critical data, allowing me to remain focused. While it was a difficult undertaking, the project was ultimately a success. I completed the work with two hours to spare, and the client was thrilled with the end result.”

2. As a team leader, how do you handle conflict? Tell me about a time when you experienced conflict and what you did to resolve it.

“When I’m overseeing a team, I find that communication and compromise are keys to mitigating conflict. In my current job, I was working with a multi-disciplinary project team to create a new application for a client. There was a debate about the best way to design a particular interface, with two team members having different perspectives based on their unique professional expertise.

“While the conflict could have delayed the project, I acted quickly to ensure that didn’t happen. I met with each team member one-on-one to learn more about their perspective. Along the way, I discovered that one team member didn’t inherently dislike the other’s idea; it was that the approach wasn’t possible based on the technologies used.

“Once I learned that detail, I brought the two colleagues together to oversee a discussion. I outlined the technical constraint, ensuring the other team member knew that was the only reason their colleague didn’t want to move forward with their idea. Then, I worked with them to find a similar solution that was feasible, creating a functional compromise.”

3. Tell me about a time you made a mistake at work

“In my last position, I was responsible for hiring seasonal workers for the first time. We needed to bring in more than a dozen short-term hires and had very little time to do so. While I was meeting with a candidate, it seemed like they had all of the necessary technical ability. However, I ignored a red flag – namely, a negative attitude about training – assuming that their existing skills would make it a non-issue.

“When they came on board, it was clear that their mindset would hinder them from reaching full productivity quickly. Additionally, their attitude negatively impacted other new hires that were taking part in initial training.

“Ultimately, that new hire had to be let go and replaced, which wasn’t ideal. However, it taught me the importance of not overlooking mindset and attitude when choosing candidates. As a result, my subsequent hiring decisions were much better fits, resulting in higher productivity and better retention.”

4. Have you ever had to work with someone you didn’t like? How did you handle that?

“In my last job, I was assigned to a project with a colleague with a work style that didn’t mesh well with mine. I’m generally a planner, and I like to outline my responsibilities in advance, divvying out tasks fairly to make them manageable and easier to track. My colleague favored a more organic approach, essentially deciding what to tackle next as they completed the previous task.

“In the end, this led to a disagreement about how to proceed. However, instead of digging in, I figured there had to be a reasonable compromise. I sat down with them and explained why I favored a planned approach and asked them to let me know why they preferred theirs. Ultimately, I learned that over-planning made them feel constrained, which hampered their creativity.

“With that knowledge, I proposed a solution. We would create a general framework for the entire project, using it as a joint roadmap. Then, as we moved forward, we would take ownership of tasks as needed. That gave them space while giving me structure, allowing us to complete the work on time.”

5. How do you handle setting goals? Can you give an example?

“Generally, I find that goals are beneficial when I need to stay on target. In my last job, I used goal-setting to enhance my personal performance. Initially, I was meeting expectations as a sales professional, but I wanted to exceed them.

“I began by outlining my sales numbers, letting me know where I currently sat. Next, I choose a target, aiming for a 10 percent increase in three months. Then, I broke down what I’d need to do each day to make that happen, such as conducting a specific number of calls or securing a particular number of qualified leads.

“After that, I used the information to create mini-goals for my time. This gave me a functional to-do list that guided me toward success. Ultimately, I was able to reach by target two weeks early, and by continuing with that strategy, achieved a 25 percent increase by the end of six months.”

Putting It All Together

So, the next time you’re meeting with a hiring manager and they ask you a behavioral question, don’t panic. With the STAR method for interviews, you’re prepared. Use the information above to your advantage, ensuring you can create your own amazing responses and stand out from the competition.

FREE : Behavioral Interview Questions PDF Checklist

Ok the next thing you should do is download our handy "Behavioral Interview Questions Checklist PDF ".

In it you'll get 25 common behavioral questions along with tips on how to answer them with the STAR METHOD and the traps you need to avoid ....

All in a beautifully designed pdf Jeff spent hours working on. ---- He made me put that in 😉

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How to Use the STAR Interview Method to Land a Job

Sharing anecdotes created with this simple acronym helps convey your experience and skills in a lively, memorable way.

The STAR method is a technique for organizing your answer to job interview questions that ask you to “describe a time when you” encountered a particular situation. It stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result.

What Is the STAR Interview Method?  

During a  job interview , you will probably be asked to tell a story about a time you handled a specific scenario or applied certain skills in the past. The best way to answer these types of questions is to use the STAR method, in which you tell a compelling story by describing the situation you faced, the task needed to be done, the actions you took to complete the task and the results of your actions.

The four steps — which form the acronym STAR — are as follows:

• Situation: Set up the scene of the situation and give necessary context.
• Task: Describe your task and responsibilities in the situation.
• Action: Explain the actions and steps you took to complete the task.
• Result: Discuss the results and positive outcomes of your actions.

The STAR method is especially useful for interviewees who aren’t great at thinking on their feet .

“It provides a candidate with a method of communicating a response in an organized method with a focus on behaviors and results,” said Theresa Adams, senior HR knowledge advisor at the  Society for Human Resource Management .

When Do You Use the STAR Method?

The STAR method is best for answering questions that require you to talk about an experience where you demonstrated a desired skill or trait. These kinds of scenarios arise when interviewers ask behavioral questions . 

Behavioral interview questions gauge how candidates may react in certain work situations. Examples of behavioral questions can include “tell me about a time you led a work project” or “tell me about a time you experienced conflict with a coworker .”

It’s best to limit the STAR method only to interview questions that ask you to provide concrete examples of skills and abilities. Basic interview questions like “ Why do you want to work here ?” or “ Where do you see yourself in five years ?” don’t mention a specific situation, so the STAR method would be inappropriate in these instances. 

How Does the STAR Method Work?

STAR interview answers follow each letter of the acronym as a step.  

1. Set Up the Situation

First, set up the situation at hand. Give the interviewer a clear (but brief) picture of where your example takes place and what was occurring. Include several details relevant to the interview question at most to avoid a lengthy response. You should spend no more than 20 percent of your talking time setting the stage, so keep your description concise. 

2. Describe the Task

Describe your main task, objective or goal in the situation, and what your responsibilities entailed. The interviewer should understand what your role was in the scenario and what you were expected to accomplish . Keep the summary as short as possible since you should spend no more than 10 percent of your answer talking about the task. 

3. Explain the Actions You Took

Explain what you did to accomplish your task, and what was significant about the action you chose to carry out. Don’t give a generic overview — it’s worth highlighting any details specific to your action and scenario. This is the most important part of your answer and can take up as much as 60 percent of your talking time. So, take the time to emphasize at least one or two key steps you took to resolve a situation or achieve a goal .  

4. Share the Results

Remember that stories you tell during an interview need to accomplish two things: Demonstrate your past capabilities and show the value you’ll add in the future. This is the time to not only reveal the result, but share what you learned during the experience and how you might handle it differently. Still, the results shouldn’t make up more than 10 percent of your answer. If you can promptly highlight your achievements and growth, the STAR format can be a strategic way to format your accomplishments into a strong narrative .  

How to Prepare for an Interview With the STAR Method

Anyone can say that they’re hardworking , responsible or adaptable — but you need to back up your claims with evidence. Instead of listing your  qualities and skills , tell a specific story about a time you exemplified them. Doing so will make your interview more memorable and give the employer a glimpse into how you behave in the workplace .

Here’s a few tips for practicing the STAR method and how to best apply it in an interview.  

“Do your best to avoid long-winded answers,” said  Octavia Goredema , a  career coach and author of Prep, Push, Pivot: Essential Career Strategies for Underrepresented Women . Practice pre-interview so you’re able to share answers confidently and with impact. “Interviewers will listen for relevant examples and details that convey how you solved a problem or overcame a challenge,” Goredema said.

Wait For Your Cue  

Getting your timing right is as important as choosing the right story. Relying too heavily on the STAR method can make your answers seem unnatural and may signal that you aren’t engaged in the current conversation, which is a turnoff for employers. Don’t leap in to share an anecdote every chance you get. Instead, listen for cues from your interviewer to pick the right moment to share. 

“When an interviewer is asking you to give an example of a situation where you had to overcome major obstacles to meet your objectives, the STAR method can be a useful tool in thinking about how to frame your answers and effectively answer their questions,” said Savanna Thompson, vice president of people at  98point6 . 

Be Authentic

An effective workplace story doesn’t have to be one where everything went perfectly. Don’t be afraid to tell stories where mistakes were made or things didn’t go entirely according to plan. Ultimately, the STAR method should show how you generated a positive impact at work and give you a chance to explain what you learned. 

See Interviews Holistically  

“Tell me about a time when…” most likely won’t encompass the entire interview, Goredema said. She recommends making a list of all tough questions like “ why should we hire you ” and practicing responses.

Example STAR Method Questions

Tell me about a time you overcame a difficult challenge  .

Situation: “I was just about to go into a board committee meeting when I received some emergency family news.”

Task: “I knew my attention wouldn’t be completely on the meeting, but this meeting had been on the books for months. I had to decide how to handle the situation.”

Action: “I decided that transparency was the best course of action. I went to the meeting and told the board what had happened. I offered to stay at the meeting. The board chair told me I should leave, and she offered to record the meeting so I could listen to it later.”

Result: “I was able to attend to the emergency and the board meeting continued. I listened to the recording during the week and was able to share a few thoughts with the board chair. I felt that trusting them with my news, and that in this case, vulnerability was a desirable leadership quality . The board’s understanding verified my choice.”

Tell Me About a Time You Were Suddenly Given a Leadership Opportunity

Situation: “I had been at my company for about six months when my manager had to take substantial FMLA leave to care for his parents. I was asked if I’d step in as acting manager during the time he was away.” 

Task: “My task was to keep my team on track and handle my own workload.”

Action: “Before he left, my manager, his manager and I met to go over the day-to-day aspects of managing our team as well as prioritize projects. Because I was cognizant that I’d have to get my own work done and manage the team, I got permission to place two long-term projects on hold until my manager returned. I then met with my team to devise a weekly plan for meeting deadlines and we set up a weekly 15-minute team meeting, in lieu of formal one-on-ones , to keep us on track. To keep my own work on track, I created a day-by-day plan and stuck to it.” 

Result: “Everything ran smoothly during my manager’s time away. I felt proud that I had asked for, and gotten, certain dispensations during his absence; I feel it showed that I understood priorities, for instance handling my own work and keeping the team’s day-to-day work on track, and didn’t try to be a superhero. My manager returned and was happy how things had gone during his absence, and six months later, I received a promotion .”

Describe a Time When a Project of Yours Didn’t Turn Out as Expected

Situation: “My team was asked to onboard a client that had been with the company in the past. The client had left the company because it felt it wasn’t getting proper customer service, but decided to give us a second chance.”

Task: “My task was to onboard and welcome this boomerang client in a way that they would feel that they made the right decision in returning.”

Action: “Before meeting the client, my team, sales and customer service met to figure out exactly what happened during the first go-round, and then outlined clear steps for rectifying those situations. For instance, the client had previously gotten check-in communication from customer service every two weeks; we decided to ask the client if one week would work better. We also decided that the account manager would, situation permitting, fly out to see the client every three months, and also offered the client a three-month free trial of a product we’d just introduced.”

Result: “The client seemed happy and satisfied with our efforts, but still left our company after a few months. In retrospect, maybe we tried too hard to keep them as a client, or perhaps it was just meant to be. In any event, I, my team, and the other teams learned a lot about each other and about client retention tools, so end over end it was a good experience.”

Why Is the STAR Interview Method Effective?

STAR answers form a connection between job candidates and interviewers, said Timothy Golden, a professor in the Lally School of Management at  Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute . They help demonstrate your merits as a candidate , and also give interviewers a glimpse into how they’d operate as a potential employee.

“The beauty of the STAR method is that you never know what you’ll get,” said Martin Welker, CEO of  Zenkit . “The open-ended questions can reveal a wealth of information about the candidate’s potential as an employee as well as how they would fit into the team and  company culture .”

That’s especially true for  remote interviews . “One of the biggest differences in remote interviews is that the job candidate and the interviewer have the potential to feel psychologically distant from one another,” Golden said. “They feel less psychological closeness because they are spatially distant from each other. Both the job candidate and interviewer should work to psychologically connect with each other, through sharing stories and facial expressions.” 

Successful interviews, for both interviewer and candidate, will bridge that separation, and create an environment where the job interview can help both parties to truly understand one another . Where one person walks away with a job offer , and the other rejoices in a fine addition to their staff, it’s a win-win.

How the STAR Method Can Help Alleviate Implicit Bias

Behavioral-based questions produce key insights into a candidate’s competencies , said Elaine Obukhova, Academy of Management Scholar and assistant professor at McGill University in Toronto. Understanding how people have responded to certain past situations can help predict how they’ll respond in the future. 

So how can STAR curb  implicit bias ? Obukhova offers one example: Chinese-American job candidates, she said, can be stereotypically viewed as competent, but also as “cold” or “lacking leadership potential.” STAR questions can get past that bias because they focus on what people did rather than how they seem. 

“People from different backgrounds express themselves differently,” she said. “Interviews that focus on the discovery of ‘fit’ or ‘passion’ often disadvantage people from different cultural and socio-economic backgrounds,” she said. “Asking about strengths and weaknesses will tell interviewers how well-spoken the candidate is, not necessarily reveal competence.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the star method.

The STAR method is an interview technique that helps candidates format answers for behavioral questions. STAR stands for situation, task, action and result.

What are examples of STAR questions?

"Tell me about a time you led a project" or "Describe a time when you were under pressure at work: how did you handle it?" are examples of STAR questions. 

How long should a STAR method response be?

Between one to four minutes long; approximately a few minutes.

What are the 4 steps in STAR?

• S ituation: provide the setting and context.
• T ask: describe the challenge you faced.
• A ction: outline the steps you took to resolve the challenge.
• R esult: share the outcome of your actions.

An earlier version of this story was written by Sunny Betz.

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How To Use The STAR Method In A Job Interview (With Examples)

• Interview Preparation Checklist
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Find a Job You Really Want In

Using the STAR method when answering interview questions can help you impress your interviewer and help you land the job. The STAR method helps you answer behavioral and situational interview questions so it’s important to know how to use it. If you have an interview coming up and want to use this method in your answers, we’ll go over how to use the STAR method in a job interview, provide some example answers using this method, and we’ll go over some mistakes to avoid when answering. Key Takeaways: STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. The STAR method is an efficient and effective way to highlight your skills through experience when answering interview questions. The STAR method is particularly useful for behavioral questions as well as certain situational questions. Be as specific as possible in your answers to make the most of the STAR method. In This Article    Skip to section How to use the STAR method when answering interview questions Example questions and answers using the STAR method 14 Common behavioral interview questions that require the STAR method How to prepare for an interview using the STAR method Common STAR method mistakes to avoid Situational interview questions and the STAR method STAR method FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to use the STAR method when answering interview questions

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. The STAR method can help you stay on track and answer behavioral interview questions quickly and thoroughly. Here is a breakdown of each step:

Situation. Set the scene for your story — discuss who was involved and what was going on. Your answer won’t work unless you can come up with an appropriate anecdote to discuss. Make sure you really listen to the interviewer’s question so you don’t start telling an irrelevant story.

Here is an example of how your answer should look:

“In my last role, my team and I were facing a significant challenge with declining customer satisfaction scores. We were tasked with finding a solution to improve these scores and retail more customers.”

Task. Next, state what your responsibility was in this situation. It might have been a task you were given or an initiative you took on your own. Often, you can combine the situation and task to fit in one sentence.

“My task was to identify and implement strategies that would lead to a measurable increase in customer satisfaction within a three-month period.”

Action. This is the meat of your answer. Discuss what actions you took along with your thought process and reason for choosing that approach. Make that your direct impact is obvious in the context of the story.

“I decided to propose a new customer feedback system that would allow us to gather real-time feedback and identify areas of improvement. To do this I gathered information and collected data to support my proposal. I also scheduled one-on-one meetings with team members and I addressed any of their concerns and listened to their feedback. I also made sure to keep open communication and provide regular updates throughout the process.”

Result. Wrap up your story with a positive result that clearly shows how your actions created a better situation. Even if the question is about a negative topic, like making a mistake, be sure to finish with positivity — lessons learned and improvements made since then.

“As a result of these efforts, we were able to implement the new customer feedback which led to a 25% increase in customer satisfaction scores within the first three months.”

Answering behavioral or situation questions with the STAR method will help you keep your responses focused and give the interviewer the information they’re looking for in a concise way. Think of STAR as a framework that you can use to stay on track and ease the nervousness of not knowing what to say in an interview.

Example questions and answers using the STAR method

Here are some common behavioral interview questions with example answers using the STAR method to help you get an understanding of how to answering using it:

Tell me about a time you made a mistake . How did you fix the situation?

Situation: At the beginning of my career I was responsible for collecting the week’s sales figures from sales team leaders and compiling them for my supervisor . One week, I forgot to get figures from a few of the teams, resulting in skewed data to present to my supervisor. Task: I had to fix the situation quickly before my supervisor’s big monthly meeting so she could accurately present the company’s sales figures. Action: I quickly called, emailed, and checked in on all the sales team leaders to make sure I had all of the correct information. I had to track down one team leader who was out of the office for the day, but luckily his assistant knew the figures for the week. Result: I was able to remedy my mistake within an hour and provide my supervisor with all the correct data in time for her meeting.

Can you tell me about a time when you boosted monthly sales figures for your team?

Situation: I led a sales team at my previous company and I was responsible for making sure we reached the sales goals my supervisor set. Task: We were meeting our goals, but I wanted to surpass the expectations so I implemented a “check back” policy. Action: I asked everyone on my team to begin checking back with leads that went cold. We began reaching back out to people who asked for more information about our services but never followed up. Result: We were able to convert 50% of those dead leads just by checking back in and seeing if the customer wanted to resume our conversation, bringing us $15,000 above our usual sales goal for the month.

When have you demonstrated leadership skills?

Situation: As a consultant , I worked on various different teams to complete projects. One time, our designated team leader was suddenly reassigned to a new project so I stepped up and offered to lead our team. Task: We had a few days to research, compile, and present our recommendations to a client so I had to manage the team to make sure we were all completing our work and staying within the guidelines the client provided. Action: This meant that I had to balance both my own work for the proposal as well as fielding questions from teammates and overseeing the occasional disagreement. Acting as a mediator , I better understood the recommendations my teammates were proposing and helped them come to an agreement. Result: We successfully pitched our proposal to the client, resulting in an ongoing partnership with them. I was also recognized as a strong leader and became a designated group leader for future projects.

Have you had a time when you disagreed with your boss? How did you handle it?

Situation: We were given a small budget to run paid advertising campaigns for a new product that the company was launching. My boss thought that the money would be better spent on a Google Search Ad, but I wanted to spend it on a social media campaign. Task: I had to convince her that an ad on social media would have a higher ROI than a Google Search Ad, so I had to calculate costs and results for both campaigns to show her why a social media ad made more sense for our budget and goals. Action: I researched and compiled information about what we could expect to gain from these two different ads with our budget. I presented the findings to my boss to convince her to start a paid social media campaign. Result: My work convinced her that we would ultimately see more conversion from a highly targeted social media ad than a Google Search Ad, so I became the person in charge of the project. I oversaw the creation of the content, the targeting, and more, and by the end, we saw a much higher conversion rate than we usually did.

Share an example of when you had to deliver bad news to a coworker.

Situation: As a sales manager , I had to make sure that everyone on my team was meeting their weekly and monthly sales goals. There was one month when a man on my team was barely meeting the goal or did not reach it for four weeks. Our company policy was that after a month of inconsistent performance, we had to have a serious talk with the employee. Task: I had to ask this employee about his work performance and inform him that if his sales remained low for another two weeks, he would be let go. Action: Instead of approaching the situation as a chance to blame him for low sales or scare him about his future, I wanted to understand his point of view. We had a productive conversation about his work and what he was doing to improve his performance so it became a working discussion instead of a chance for me to talk down to him for not meeting our goals. Result: After our conversation, I saw the suggestions he made come to life and I watched his sales numbers rise. Luckily, he improved before the two weeks were up and he became one of my best sales associates after that.

Can you share a time when you successfully persuaded a team or individual to adopt your ideas or recommendations?

Situation: In my previous role at XYZ Inc. we were dealing with a challenge with declining sales. My team was struggling to find a solution and it was impacting our performance. Task: I decided to analyze the situation, come up with a new strategy to boost sales, and convince the team to adopt this new strategy. Action: To create this new strategy, I started by conducting a comprehensive analysis of our sales data to identify any sales trends or customer preferences. Based on this research, I developed a detailed proposal that outlines a new market approach, a revised product positioning, and targeted promotional campaigns. I made sure to meet with key team members one-on-one to communicate this and address any of their concerns. Once everyone agreed to this new strategy, I created a detailed implementation plan with clear milestones, responsibilities, and timelines. Result: As a result of our collaborative efforts and adoption of the new strategy, we saw a significant turnaround in our sales figures. Within six months, our sales in the target product category increased, exceeding our initial goals.

14 Common behavioral interview questions that require the STAR method

Behavioral questions are easy to identify since they are meant to gather specific information about a task you performed or a goal you achieved in a previous job. If the question starts with something along the lines of “ tell me about a time you… ” or “describe an experience where…” then the interviewer is looking to get concrete examples of how you complete tasks and achieve goals.

Here are some common behavioral interview questions that require the STAR method:

Tell me about a time you had to complete a project with a short deadline.

Can you tell me about a time you disagreed with a coworker? How did you resolve it?

Is there a time when you had to set a goal and meet it?

Tell me about a situation where you failed to meet a specific goal. How did you deal with it?

Have you had to make an unpopular decision?

Can you explain a time when you were under a lot of pressure at work? How did you handle it?

Have you ever worked with multiple departments to complete a project? How did it go?

What do you do when you need to motivate your coworkers?

Have you been in a situation where one of your coworkers refused to complete their work?

Tell me about a time you showed initiative in a professional setting.

Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult coworker or team member. How did you handle the situation?

Tell me about a situation where you had to handle a dissatisfied customer or client. How did you address their concerns and ensure their satisfaction?

Describe a moment when you demonstrated strong problem-solving skills. What was the problem, and how did you approach it?

Can you share an experience where you had to provide constructive feedback to a colleague or subordinate? How did you deliver the feedback, and what was the outcome?

How to prepare for an interview using the STAR method

To prepare for an interview using the STAR method, the best way to do it is to review common behavioral and situational questions and practice your answers. The more you practice with the format of the STAR method, the better you’ll be at using it during an interview.

Start by writing out your answer to a behavioral question so you can read it back and make sure it sounds like a good answer. You should also answer the questions aloud to practice how you’ll organize your thoughts on the spot. You can do this alone or ask a friend to listen to your responses and help you fine-tune them.

The great thing about behavioral interview questions is that they can be broken down into categories. Consider the following common topics:

Adaptability

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Customer-focused

Communication

Decision-making

Goal-setting

Taking initiative

Interpersonal skills

Time management

Negotiation

Conflict management

Most of these examples will overlap in some way or another, which will help you when it comes to coming up with an answer.

For example, if you have a story about a time you helped an angry customer reach a positive conclusion, that covers stress, problem-solving, customer interaction, communication, interpersonal skills , and conflict management.

As long as you have a number of stories that cumulatively cover all of the above topics, you should be plenty prepared for your interview. Just be sure to review the job description before heading into your interview, to make sure that all of your stories paint yourself as the ideal candidate the hiring manager is looking for.

Common STAR method mistakes to avoid

You should avoid making your answer sound rehearsed or robotic and being too vague with your answers when using the STAR method. Here are some more mistakes to avoid when using the STAR method:

Sounding rehearsed. It’s good to prepare and practice your answers, but you don’t want to sound like a robot. In order to avoid this, we recommend writing bullet points instead of full answers. That way, you’re sure to hit all the key parts of your story, but your phrasing will sound more natural.

Telling stories that make you look bad. All the stories you tell using the STAR method should end on a positive note. And if the interviewer asks you about a time you made a mistake, don’t bring up the time you cost your former employer hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Being vague. It’s important that your direct impact is super evident in your story. It’s good to talk about team efforts, but make sure that your specific contribution is what’s highlighted.

If you can, use numbers whenever possible. Hiring managers won’t know about your various company policies, but they know that a 10% increase in revenue is always a good thing.

Not being prepared. Coming up with your story on the spot can have you leaving out details or dragging on your answers. There’s also a chance that you could forget to include relevant skills or miss a step in your answers. Being prepared with knowing each step and knowing what you want will help you answer smoothly.

Lying. It’s better to admit you don’t have a great example story rather than make one up. But don’t just flat out say “I don’t know, that never happened to me.” Instead, turn the behavioral interview question into a situational one. Imagine how you would behave in that circumstance, and apply the STAR method as normal.

Situational interview questions and the STAR method

Situational interview questions are very similar to behavioral questions, except they ask about a hypothetical scenario instead of a real one. These questions start with phrases like “What would you do if…” and “How would you respond when…”

The great news is that the STAR method works just as well for situational interview questions as behavioral ones. After all, the hiring manager or recruiter will be thrilled to hear about a real example that relates to their hypothetical situation.

Even if you don’t have a concrete example for a situational question, you can still use the STAR method to format your answer into a neat and coherent narrative.

STAR method FAQ

What is the STAR method when interviewing?

When interviewing, the STAR method means your answer will address a Situation, what your Task was, what Action you took, and what was the final Result. The STAR method is a great way to neatly organize your answer in such a way that shows how your skills result in success. This helps the interviewer see that you understand the question and have the ability to effectively communicate a relevant answer.

How do you use the STAR technique?

Use the STAR technique by following each step in order. Start with a situation that is appropriate for the question. Then describe what your task or role was to resolve the situation. After, explain what actions you took to fulfill your task. Finally, in a positive manner, describe what were the results of your actions.

Is the STAR method a good technique?

Yes, the STAR method is a good technique for interviews. The STAR method follows a logical progression of your involvement. It gives context, shows skills in actions, and provides results. These are all bits of information the interviewer can use to learn about you and see how you are a great candidate.

When should you use the STAR method in interviews?

You should use the STAR method when answering behavioral interview questions. The STAR method allows you to answer behavioral interview questions with a story or example from your past. This helps the interviewer see how you are as an employee.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Using the STAR method for your next behavioral interview

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Employment Interviewing: Seizing the Opportunity and the Job

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Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

Denise Bitler has 30+ years of HR experience working in various industries and with all level of employees from hourly through C-suite, as well as company Board Members.She is the founder of Resume-Interview Success, LLC and is an expert in best practices related to resume, cover letter, and Executive bio writing, LinkedIn Profile optimization, job search strategies, and interview coaching.

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How to Use the STAR Interview Response Method

STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result

What is the star interview response method, star key concepts, how to prepare for an interview using star, examples of interview questions and answers using star, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Are job interviews challenging for you? Do you struggle to give concise answers to interview questions? Are you unsure how to share your accomplishments during an interview without sounding boastful? What's the best way to let the interviewer know that you're the right candidate for the job?

The STAR interview response method can help make the process easier. Using this method of answering interview questions allows you to share concrete examples of how you successfully handled situations at work to show you possess the experience and skills required for the job you’re interviewing for.

Read below for a detailed description of the STAR interview response technique and examples of how to best use the model.

Key Takeaways

• STAR stands for situation, task, action, and result.
• Each concept in the STAR acronym is a step that candidates can use to respond to interview questions.
• By following all four steps, applicants can provide comprehensive answers to interview questions.

STAR stands for  S ituation,  T ask,  A ction, and  R esult. Using this strategy is particularly helpful in response to behavioral or  competency-focused questions , which typically start with phrases such as, "Describe a time when..." or, "Share an example of a situation where...."

Jon Marchione / The Balance

The STAR interview response method is a way of answering  behavioral interview  questions. Behavioral interview questions are questions about how you have behaved in the past. Specifically, they are about how you have handled certain work situations.

Employers using this technique analyze jobs and define the skills and qualities that high-level performers have exhibited in that job. Since past performance can be a good predictor of the future, interviewers ask these questions to determine whether candidates have the skills and experiences required to excel in the job. 

For example, employers might be looking for proof of problem-solving skills, analytical ability, creativity, perseverance through failure, writing skills, presentation skills, teamwork orientation, persuasive skills, quantitative skills, or accuracy.

Examples of  behavioral interview questions  include the following:

• Tell me about an occasion when you had to complete a task under a tight deadline.
• Have you ever gone above and beyond the call of duty?
• What do you do when a team member refuses to complete his or her part of a project?

Some interviewers structure their questions using the STAR technique. However, job seekers can also use the STAR interview method to prepare for behavioral interview questions.

STAR is an acronym for four key concepts. Each concept is a step the job candidate can take when answering a behavioral interview question. By following all four steps, the job candidate will provide a comprehensive answer. The four steps referenced in the acronym are the following:

Situation:  Describe the context within which you performed a job or faced a challenge at work. For example, perhaps you were working on a group project, or you had a conflict with a co-worker. This situation can be drawn from work experience, a volunteer position, or any other relevant event. Be as specific as possible.

Task:  Next, describe your responsibility in that situation. Perhaps you had to help your group complete a project within a tight deadline, resolve a conflict with a co-worker, or hit a sales target. 

Action:  You then describe how you completed the task or endeavored to meet the challenge. Focus on what you did rather than what your team, boss, or co-worker did. 

Instead of saying, "We did XYZ," say, "I did XYZ."

Result:  Finally, explain the outcomes or results generated by the action taken. It may be helpful to emphasize what you accomplished or what you learned.

Since you won’t know in advance  what interviewing techniques  or specific questions your interviewer will be using, you’ll benefit from preparing several scenarios from the jobs you’ve held.

Make a list of the job qualifications. First, make a list of the skills and/or experiences required for the job you're applying for. It may help to look at the job listing and similar job listings for indications of the required or preferred skills and qualities. You can then  match your qualifications to those listed in the posting .

Create a list of examples. Then, consider specific examples of occasions when you displayed those skills. For each example, name the  situation, task, action, and result . Whatever examples you select, make sure they are as closely related to the job you’re interviewing for as possible.

Prepare a response. For each example, prepare a brief response:

• Describe the situation (2-3 sentences).
• Explain your task (1-2 sentences).
• Describe the action you took (2-3 sentences).
• Share your result (2-3 sentences).

You can also take a look at  common behavioral interview questions and try answering each of them using the STAR technique.

Tell me about a time you had to complete a task within a tight deadline. Describe the situation and explain how you handled it.

Example answer.

While I typically like to plan out my work in stages and complete it piece by piece, I can also achieve high-quality work results under tight deadlines. Once, at a former company, an employee left days before the deadline for one of his projects. I was asked to assume responsibility for it, with only a few days to learn about and complete the project. I created a task force and delegated work, and we all completed the assignment with a day to spare. In fact, I believe I thrive when working under tight deadlines.

What do you do when a team member doesn't complete their share of the work?

When there are team conflicts or issues, I always try my best to step up as team leader if needed. I think my communication skills make me an effective leader and moderator. For example, one time, when I was working on a team project, two of the team members got embroiled in an argument, both refusing to complete their assignments. They were both dissatisfied with their workloads, so I arranged a team meeting in which we reallocated all the assignments among the team members. This made everyone happier and more productive, and our project was a success.

Tell me about a time you showed initiative on the job.

Last winter,   I was acting as an account coordinator, supporting the account executive for a major client at an ad agency. The account executive had an accident and was sidelined three weeks before a major campaign pitch. I volunteered to fill in and orchestrate the presentation by coordinating the input of the creative and media teams. I called an emergency meeting and facilitated a discussion about ad scenarios, media plans, and the roles of various team members in the presentation. I was able to achieve a consensus on two priority ad concepts we had to pitch and on related media strategies. I drew up a minute-by-minute plan of how we would present the pitch. Based on our discussions, the plan was warmly received by the team. The client loved our plan and adopted the campaign. I was promoted to account executive six months later. 

How can you share examples of your achievements during a job interview?

One of the best ways to share your accomplishments with an interviewer is by telling a story . When answering questions, share a description of what you did and how you achieved a positive outcome. This way, you’re showing the interviewer what you’re able to do rather than just telling them you can do the job.

What can you do when you can’t think of an answer to an interview question?

When you’re asked a challenging question, use the STAR interview technique to respond. Think of something you did at work related to the question, then explain how you handled the situation and what the outcome was. 

MIT. “ Using The STAR Method for Your Next Behavioral Interview .”

CareerOneStop. “ Types of Interviews .”

Case Western Reserve University. " STAR Strategy Examples ."

The University of New Mexico. “ STAR Method Interview Prep .”

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What Is the STAR Method? Here’s How To Use It in Your Next Interview (With Examples)

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Results—and it’s a great tool for answering interview questions. Here’s how to use the STAR method, with examples.

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If you’ve ever had a job interview, you’re probably familiar with questions like “Tell me about a time when…” or “How do you handle [insert tricky situation].”

You’re probably also familiar with how stressful these questions can be. You know you’re supposed to provide some kind of example, and you know you’ve got loads you could draw from…but you just can’t think of any right now. 

After some umming and ahhing, you eventually pull an example from your mental archives. But you’re feeling a bit flustered and realise you’re rambling. You’re not conveying the point you wanted to make, and the interviewer is looking rather lost. 

Fortunately, there’s a very simple solution to this common conundrum. It’s called the STAR framework , and it’ll help you to answer behavioural interview questions concisely and coherently. 

If you’re new to STAR, this guide is for you. It contains everything you need to know about the STAR method, including useful examples to help you model your own answers. 

Keep reading to learn:

What is the STAR method?

What is the star/ar method, why is the star method useful.

• What kind of interview questions is the STAR method used for?

How to use the STAR method in your next job interview: 3 expert tips

Some star and star/ar example answers for ux designers, the takeaway, more career tips for ux designers.

So, what exactly is the STAR framework? Let’s begin.

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STAR stands for Situation , Task , Action , and Results . 

It provides a helpful framework for structuring your answers to interview questions. Specifically, the STAR method is useful when you need to tell a concise and logical story—usually in response to behavioural questions such as “Tell me about a time when…” 

Here’s how the STAR framework helps you format your answer:

• Situation . This is where you set the scene and provide necessary context. This usually involves laying out the problem or challenge you had to solve. For example: “I was working as a junior UX designer at an e-commerce startup. We noticed that there was a really high rate of users abandoning their shopping carts at the last step in the purchase process, so we needed to improve the experience.”
• Task . Here you outline the specific role you played, including any goals or objectives you were tasked with reaching. For example: “I was responsible for reviewing and redesigning the checkout process to reduce ‘abandoned cart’ rates by at least 55%.”
• Action . This is where you share the actions you took to solve the problem/tackle the challenge and to meet your goals. For example: “I started by conducting usability tests to identify the main pain-points in the checkout process. I then conducted some competitor research to see how similar e-commerce sites were structuring the process. Based on my findings, I redesigned our process, removing a very time-consuming step which asked users to fill out a long form with unnecessary information. I also implemented additional payment options as we were previously only allowing customers to pay via PayPal.”
• Results . Here you state the results and outcomes you were able to achieve. For example: “A month after the redesign was live, we saw a 75% increase in customers completing their purchases. The redesign not only improved the user experience of the site, but also significantly increased sales.”

But what if you’re asked to tell the interviewer about a project which didn’t quite go to plan? 

There’s an expansion of the STAR method which comes in very handy for such questions: STAR/AR . We explain in the next section.

The STAR/AR framework adds two extra elements to your story: (alternative) Action and (alternative) Result . 

This is useful when you didn’t achieve the desired results and want to share your learnings. 

Here’s how the STAR/AR method works:

• Situation . As with STAR, this is where you outline the context and the challenge.
• Task . Again, outline your role on the project and the outcomes you were aiming for.
• Action . Here, you share the specific steps and actions you took to address the challenge.
• Results . This is where you explain the outcomes (or consequences) and reflect on why the action(s) you undertook weren’t successful.
• Alternative Action . Here, you share what you learned and what you could have done differently/would do differently next time. In other words, what alternative actions could you have taken for better results?
• Alternative Results . Explain how your alternative action(s) could have impacted the results differently. What could you have achieved if you had pursued a different course of action?

The STAR/AR framework is a great tool for sharing unsuccessful projects and framing them in a positive light which showcases your ability to reflect, learn, and improve. 

The STAR and STAR/AR frameworks are useful because they help you to provide logical, well-structured answers which tell a relevant story. 

When following the STAR method, you’ll ensure that you cover all the necessary details that the interviewer is looking for—and that you do so in a coherent, easy-to-follow way. 

By focusing on the four points of STAR, you can also avoid rambling, going off on a tangent, or diving into too much detail and losing the point you wanted to make. 

Communication is a critical skill (one of the top 10 skills to put on your resume , in fact)—not just for UX roles , but for pretty much any job you apply for. Interviewers will be looking out for your ability to communicate effectively and concisely—and the STAR method will help you do just that. 

What kind of interview questions is the STAR framework used for?

The STAR framework is ideal for answering behavioural interview questions. Behavioural questions are those which focus on how you behaved in a specific situation, and they typically require you to share specific examples. 

Here are some common behavioural interview questions which can be answered using the STAR method:

• You had to take on a new task which you had no experience of doing before
• You made a mistake at work
• You had to delegate to other colleagues or team members
• You have clashing deadlines and not enough time to meet them all?
• You and a colleague can’t reach an agreement on something?
• A last-minute request comes in and you’ve already got lots on your plate?
• A successful project you worked on
• A time when you had to work with a difficult or uncooperative colleague or client
• An unsuccessful project you worked on

The interviewer won’t always formulate their behavioural questions in the same way. But, if it sounds like they’re digging for insights into how you approach certain challenges and situations, the chances are that they’re looking for a concrete example or an anecdote. That’s your cue to apply the STAR framework. 

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1. Plan ahead and have some STAR stories at the ready

You can’t anticipate exactly what questions will come up in your interview. But you can—and should—spend some time reading through the job description to get an idea of the skills and qualities the hiring manager will be looking out for. 

You can then plan some STAR stories which highlight those critical skills. For example, if you’re applying for a UX design role with a heavy focus on user research , you’ll definitely want to prepare a STAR anecdote based on a time you successfully contributed to a user research project. 

Maybe the job you’re applying for requires lots of involvement in UX strategy . In that case, you’ll want to come up with an example of a time when you took on a strategic role or contributed to a strategic initiative. 

In short: Pull out the key skills, qualities, and behaviours the job description focuses on and come up with STAR stories which highlight and demonstrate these.

2. Formulate you STAR answers using only the most relevant detail

When using the STAR method, it’s important to follow the framework to the letter. The goal is to share every story or example in a concise, logical manner—delivering the relevant points and making it easy for the hiring manager to follow along. 

For example, when it comes to the Situation aspect, you don’t need to provide too much historical background or unnecessary detail. You want to set the scene without going round the houses. Share some context about where you were working, who you were working with (if relevant) and introduce the problem, project, or challenge you’re going to focus on. Good: “During my UX design internship at a software company, I was responsible for onboarding new clients. Our new client surveys reported a low satisfaction score, so I was then responsible for improving the experience.” Not so good: “I once did a UX design internship at a software company. I worked there for about six months in total and had lots of contact with new clients. They were mostly clients in the telecoms industry and I was responsible for onboarding them, which I usually did via video calls but sometimes they came by to the office. For every new client, we gave them a survey to complete after onboarding and sadly our client satisfaction scores were quite low so my manager asked me to look into ways to improve it.” 

Can you see how the second answer is much longer and includes detail which isn’t necessarily relevant to the story? If you do this for each point of the STAR, you run the risk of telling a long, winding story which loses the listener’s interest before you’ve been able to demonstrate your skills and achievements. 

In short: Keep your answers focused and concise. Go through each aspect of the STAR and come up with just two or three key points for each. 

3. Practice using the STAR method on the fly

It’s great to go into your interview with some STAR stories at the ready. At the same time, it’s important that you’re able to implement the STAR method on the fly, too. You don’t know what the interviewer will ask you, after all, so it’s good to be prepared for some curveballs. 

If you can, find a friend, colleague, or relative who can roleplay the interview with you. Ask them to come up with some behavioural questions based on the job description and practice answering them using the STAR framework—with no prior preparation. 

This will get you well-versed in structuring your answers under pressure—a task which can be tricky when you’re already feeling those interview nerves. And, if you do find yourself struggling to come up with something right away, don’t be afraid to ask the interviewer if you can have a moment or two to think. 

In short: In addition to planning some STAR answers ahead of the interview, practice answering behavioural questions under pressure. This will ease your nerves going into the interview and reinforce your confidence in the STAR framework. 

Now we know exactly what the STAR method is and how it’s used, let’s share some example answers for UX designers. These should provide some inspiration for your own STAR anecdotes. 

STAR example #1: Tell me about your most successful UX design project

With this question, the hiring manager is asking you to describe a specific project and, most importantly, to explain how you contributed to the project’s success. 

Here’s an example answer based on the STAR framework. 

Situation : “I once volunteered with a non-profit organisation which taught coding skills to primary school-age children. I volunteered to help them redesign their digital learning portal.”

Task : “I was responsible for planning and conducting user research to determine what features could be added to the platform, and then sharing my findings with key stakeholders, including the CEO and the product manager. The goal was to increase the average learner engagement time by 10 minutes per day, per user.”

Action : “I conducted user interviews with eight kids who had already used the platform, and with their parents. This allowed me to gain insights from direct users (the kids) and also from their parents who are able to access the learning platform and see their kids’ progress. From these interviews, I identified three new features that could improve the experience for both learners and their parents. I also discovered that there were some existing features that weren’t being used. I presented my findings and recommendations to the CEO and product manager, suggesting that they build and integrate three new features and remove two unused features.”

Results : “They followed my recommendations and launched those new features a few months later. After three months, the average learner engagement time had increased by 17 minutes per user, per day—much higher than the original target. Students also reported a net promoter score (NPS) that was three points higher than the six months prior.” 

STAR example #2: Think back to a time when you and your colleague couldn’t agree on the direction a project should take. How did you handle it?

This question is all about collaboration, conflict resolution, and overcoming challenges. Here’s how your answer might take shape with the STAR method.

Situation : “I was working as the only UX designer at an insurance company. I collaborated closely with the product owner who didn’t really believe in user research. They wanted me to provide prototypes for the new company app without conducting any research, but I wanted to do at least a brief round of user research before moving forward.”

Task : “I was set the task of coming up with prototypes for the new app within one month. They then wanted the new app to launch three months after that.”

Action : “I came up with a plan for how I could conduct user research on a low budget and still have the prototypes ready in time for the planned launch date. I put together a brief presentation outlining the steps I would take to conduct research, as well as the suggested cost and timeline, and a summary of how it would be useful for the end results. I shared this with the product owner to show them that I could still meet their deadlines and complete the project within budget if I included user research in the process. They appreciated that I had come up with a solution and a plan, and agreed that I could go ahead with the research.”

Results : “I conducted the user research as approved by the product owner and made sure to share my findings and insights with them so they could be involved in the process and see the value. We were able to launch the app on time and everyone was happy. For the next project, the product owner was immediately on board with user research and I didn’t have to go through the approval process again.”

The STAR framework will help you to answer behavioural questions logically and coherently, telling a well-structured story which highlights the key skills and qualities the hiring manager is looking for. It will also allow you to showcase your excellent communication skills—earning you a big tick from any interviewer. 

Use it when preparing for your next job interview, and remember: you can always turn to the STAR/AR variation when you’re talking about unsuccessful projects or learning curves. 

The STAR method is just one tool that will help you in your UX career. If you’re a newcomer to the field, you can accelerate your chances of interview success by reframing your previous experience and using it to your advantage . You’ll also want to make sure that your UX portfolio is ticking all the boxes , and that your UX CV and cover letter are well-primed to catch the hiring manager’s attention. 

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How to Use the STAR Method

Interviews are a nerve-wracking process for many, so it helps to be as prepared as possible. Many interviews have a section specifically for competency or behavioural based questions that prompt a story-like response. Whilst these appear to be the hardest form of question to prepare for, there is a formula for giving a high quality answer.

Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll be able to preempt the exact questions that will be asked during an interview, the STAR method helps to ensure you’re well equipped to answer any possible question in a strong manner that mirrors what an interviewer will be looking for. 

In this article, we will outline what the STAR method involves, provide you with some example answers to interview questions using the STAR method, and finally offer some advice for how to prepare for an interview.                     

What is the STAR Method of Answering Questions?

The STAR method is a technique for answering questions which gives a straightforward structure you can use to respond. It allows you to effectively demonstrate your experience in your CV, a cover letter, within a job application form, or in an interview. 

STAR is an acronym that stands for:

• Situation – Set the scene for the story by providing background and context for the situation.
• Task – Describe what your role or responsibility was in this situation.
• Action – The most important part of the story. Explain exactly what steps you took to resolve the situation or how you handled the difficulty presented to you. 
• Result – Share what happened as a result of your action, what the benefit was, and what you learnt from the experience. If possible, quantify the results to demonstrate the outcome of your actions numerically. 

You can use the STAR acronym as a guide to structuring the answers and examples you give when asked a scenario based or behavioural question. The method is designed to ensure you’re highlighting your skills and beneficial qualities to potential employers in your responses whilst also keeping your answers focused and digestible. When answering questions using the STAR method, you should remember to keep your examples short and to-the-point, remain conversational rather than overly rehearsed, and be prepared to answer follow-up questions about the examples you give. 

How Does the STAR Method Work?

The STAR method allows you to accurately and precisely answer questions which involve telling a story or require you to provide real-life examples of your past experiences, such as behavioural interview questions. These types of questions are usually easy to identify as they’ll often begin with phrases such as:

• Tell me about a time when…
• How do you react when…
• Have you ever…
• Provide an example of…
• Describe a situation…

The first challenge when answering these types of questions is to think of an appropriate scenario or fitting example that you can use in your response. Then, once you’ve got a situation in mind, the STAR method allows you to easily formulate your response in a compelling and precise way which will help to effectively relate your example back to an interviewer. Some of the main benefits of using the STAR method are that it:

Avoids rambling responses

Without using an easy-to-follow structure like the STAR method, it’s very easy to fall into the pattern of rambling and digressing from the point of your story when answering scenario based questions. This will make it far harder for a potential employer to identify the personal strengths you’re displaying within your response, whereas you want these to be immediately obvious. Using the STAR method ensures that your responses are concise and showcase the benefits you could bring to an employer. 

Helps give further insight to potential employers

Furthermore, the STAR method ensures you not only highlight your skills but also provide insight into how these skills can benefit an employer. For example, whilst you may highlight that you raised revenue in a previous role, this doesn’t mean much on its own. The STAR method encourages you to give further insight into how you raised revenue and what impact this had on the company or team as a whole. This is a more meaningful answer for employers as it not only highlights your skills, but also gives more information about you and how you approach situations and solve problems.  

Can be used for a wide range of scenarios

It’s important to remember that the responses you give using the STAR method aren’t restricted to work-related scenarios. One benefit of the technique is that it works for a wide variety of situations. If, for example, you’re interviewing for an entry level role, you can use the STAR method to describe strengths you’ve gained from something that happened in your personal or academic life, as well as just those that have occurred in previous professional positions. 

You can find further advice on successfully applying for your first job in our article on How to Prepare for your First Interview .

Is easily catered to specific job specifications

Job specifications often highlight exactly which skills and attributes an employer is looking for when hiring for a position. Thus, when applying and interviewing for a job you should aim to demonstrate as many of these desired qualities as possible. The STAR method is great for this as it allows you to cater your responses around a specific strength that you’d like to highlight to employers, for example one of those listed in the job specification.

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STAR Method Example Answers

Below are 3 examples of competency or behavioural style questions that may be asked within an interview or job application, along with a STAR answer to demonstrate how this method can help provide a high quality response. 

1: Provide an example of when you set yourself a goal and managed to achieve it.

The intent behind this question is to determine how you go about setting targets and what steps you take to accomplish a personal objective.

Situation: When I was new to my previous position as X, I fell short of reaching my revenue target in my first quarter.

Task: As a result, I was determined to exceed my revenue target in the next quarter to get back on track and demonstrate my abilities and dedication to the role.

Action: To achieve my goal, I reduced my revenue target down into smaller weekly goals so that I was able to keep track of it more easily. I also did some A/B testing to work out which sales methods had a greater impact on customers, then continued to prioritise the ones that brought in the most revenue. 

Result: Thanks to prioritising the most effective sales strategies, I managed to exceed my quarterly revenue target by 15%. 

2: Describe a time when you’ve had to handle conflict and how did you resolve it?

This question aims to assess how you respond to difficult situations and whether you have strong leadership and teamwork skills.

Situation: Whilst undertaking a team project at university, two of my teammates disagreed on the direction we should take for the project as they had different ideas that they were each passionate about pursuing. 

Task: As I was assigned to lead the team project, I was tasked with finding a solution that everyone in the team could agree on. 

Action: I invited the two team members with conflicting views to a small group meeting with me, where I encouraged them to share their perspectives and try to find some common ground in their ideas. After listening to each other’s thoughts, they managed to find a compromise that incorporated elements from each of their original ideas and that they were both happy with. 

Result: This conversation helped to strengthen our team working skills and also improved our overall idea so that we ended up with a better outcome to the project. As a result, we received a 100% mark, which was 2 grades higher than the last project we undertook together. 

3: Tell me about a time you failed. How did you handle it?

Not all situational questions will be positive but being honest about your shortcomings will show integrity to a potential employer. The key is to focus on what you’ve learned from past experiences. 

Situation: Once in my last role I was tasked with leading a project for an important client. The client was in a rush to get results, however, and therefore asked if we could complete the project in a far shorter time frame than we’d originally discussed. Wanting to impress, I agreed to the new deadline but I soon realised there was no way we could get the project completed in such a short time. 

Task: After I’d realised my mistake, I knew I had to communicate to the client that we weren’t going to meet the deadline and try to maintain or restore the relationship despite my error.

Action: I immediately reached out to the client and apologised, explaining that I’d realised that we couldn’t meet the deadline that we’d agreed on and asking for a four day extension. Luckily, they were generous enough to provide us with the extra time.

Result: In the end, we managed to complete the project ahead of the extended deadline and the client was delighted with the end results. I learned never to overpromise, and took a time management course shortly afterwards to ensure a similar situation would never occur again. 

Looking For More Interview Examples?

If you’re applying for a role in a specific industry, read our articles containing further interview questions and preparation advice for care workers , teachers , hospitality staff , bartenders , chefs , and waiting staff .

How Do I Prepare for a STAR Interview?

To successfully employ the STAR method, preparation and practice are essential. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll be able to use the technique to your advantage and impress a potential employer. 

The STAR technique can be used during in-person or virtual interviews, though a virtual interview may take some additional preparation. You can find tips for this in our article on How to Stand Out in a Virtual Interview . 

Follow these steps to get ready for an interview using the STAR method:

Assess the job description and identify what skills and qualities the employer is seeking

Before going into the interview, it’s vital that you take the time to thoroughly read the job description and fully understand what the employer is looking for. Recruiters will usually tailor their interview questions to find out if you have the qualities required for the role. 

Therefore, it’s useful to highlight any skills mentioned within the job specification so that you’re best prepared to preempt what they might ask you. For example, for a job that states it requires problem-solving skills, you may be asked to describe a time you overcame an unexpected challenge. 

If you’re missing any important skills, consider creating a personal development plan to assess what you need to improve and set out a strategy to better yourself professionally. 

Reflect on your previous experiences and accomplishments 

Once you have a list of all the skills and qualities an employer may be looking for based on their job description, try to think of multiple examples where you’ve demonstrated each of these competencies in past experiences. 

Practise writing out these scenarios using the STAR method to make sure they effectively demonstrate the skills you’re aiming to portray. Avoid vague statements and instead describe concrete steps you took to achieve the result or resolve the situation.

Practise answering interview questions out loud and on the spot

Taking part in an interview can be very nerve-wracking but usually the more you do it the more confident you are. Therefore, holding practice interviews with family or friends is a highly valuable exercise to help prepare you for the real event.

By participating in practice interviews, you can ask people for their perspective to identify what’s working and what isn’t in your answers. Furthermore, answering questions out loud will help you feel comfortable with vocalising your responses so that you sound more relaxed and natural during the real interview. 

Research common behavioural/situational questions

Although many questions asked during your interview will likely be related to specific skills and qualities described within the job description, there are also many commonly asked behavioural questions that may be included too. Therefore, it’s a good idea to prepare answers to a wide range of questions, including ones related to soft skills such as leadership, collaboration, adaptability, and communication. 

The STAR method is a valuable tool to help you answer behavioural or competency questions. STAR stands for situation, task, action and result and is meant to help you structure your answers in a clear and concise way that highlights your skills to employers. You can prepare to use the STAR method successfully by researching the role you’re applying for, considering your past experiences and successes, and practising using the STAR method to describe these events in order to highlight relevant skills for the role. 

Further Resources:

• How to Stand Out in a Virtual Interview: Preparation Tips
• How to Improve Active Listening in Communication
• Business Essentials Courses

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How to use the STAR technique for interviews

By Rob Jones & Firaz Hameed August 3, 2023

Updated June 24, 2024

What is the STAR interview technique?

The STAR interview method is a technique job seekers can use to answer behavioral and situational interview questions.

In the realm of job interviews, a traditional question-and-answer format is often followed by hiring managers. However, there is a growing trend of incorporating behavioral interview questions, which prompt candidates to provide specific examples such as "Tell me about a time..." or "What do you do when..." or "Give me an example of...".

These behavioral interviews are designed to evaluate a candidate's suitability for the role by assessing their past performance, as it serves as a strong indicator of future success.

Facing a barrage of questions in an interview can be daunting, particularly when dealing with behavioral and situational inquiries. Luckily, the STAR method can help you in preparing for and responding to these types of questions.

In this article, we'll delve deep into the STAR interview response method, explaining its use and how job candidates can apply it to confidently navigate and ace their upcoming interview.

The acronym STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result

The STAR method is designed to help you create a cohesive story with a clear outline of how you handled and resolved a problem. In other words, your answer for each behavioral question should follow the same basic pattern.

Here is what each step in the STAR acronym represents:

Think of the STAR technique as a mental outline that helps you to stay on track when responding to behavioral interview questions. By following the outline, your answers will be more coherent, concise, and impressive to your interviewer.

Why is the STAR technique useful?

Breaking down your answer into four parts can provide the interviewer with a deeper understanding of your communication skills, leadership abilities, flexibility, and ability to handle difficult situations.

Here are some of the ways the STAR interview method can be useful to job seekers

• It allows you to provide compelling answers to each question in a logical, easy-to-understand way.
• It enables you to demonstrate any technical and soft skills, qualities, and work experience to the interviewer by means of concrete, "bite-sized" examples from your past.
• It also helps you to engage your interviewer more fully by describing your qualifications within a narrative framework. In other words, it allows you to become a teller of your own story.
• Not only, is STAR useful for interviews, but it can also help you prepare cover letters and job applications in a way that highlights your strengths

How to answer interview questions using the STAR method?

Using STAR answers is extremely versatile. No matter what question the interviewer throws at you, you can almost always frame your response in terms of the STAR method. Here's just one concrete example of how you can put it all together.

Let's use "Tell me about a time when you had to use your management skills in order to complete a project on time." as an example of a STAR behavioral interview question.

In this instance, you could respond by relating the answer to a specific work situation by following the structure in the table below:

As you can see, applying the STAR interview approach doesn't have to be too complicated. However, it does require some forethought.

Here are some helpful tips to effectively answer STAR interview questions:

Provide relevant examples.

Use examples that are directly relevant to the skills and qualities the employer is looking for. Customize your answers to showcase your fit for the role.

Prepare in advance

Thoroughly review your resume and think about past experiences that align with the job requirements for the role you're interviewing for. Practice answering some common interview questions with a friend in a mock interview session. 

While having a storytelling element is important and can make your responses more memorable, be weary or straying away from the point. Stay focused and avoid providing unnecessary detail. 

Share measurable results

Whenever possible, include quantifiable outcomes to demonstrate the effect of your actions and enhance the credibility of your responses.

If needed, seek clarification

If there is any confusion about a question, it is advisable to ask the interviewer for clarification before attempting to answer.

Using the STAR format in your next interview

The STAR approach to answering interview questions is a great way to mentally outline your responses to behavioural interview questions. It allows you to demonstrate your skills and experiences, qualifications, and abilities within the framework of a story.

Here are some examples of STAR method interview questions you might be asked:

Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult team member. How did you handle it and what was the outcome?

Describe a situation where you had to meet a tight deadline. What steps did you take to ensure you completed the task on time, and what was the result?

Can you share an example of a problem you encountered at work and how you went about solving it? What were the actions you took, and what impact did your solution have?

Have you ever faced a challenging situation with a customer? How did you handle it, and what was the end result?

Tell me about a time when you had to lead a team through a major change or transition. How did you approach the situation, and what were the outcomes?

Describe a successful negotiation you were involved in. What was your approach, and how did you ensure a positive outcome for all parties?

Have you ever had to deal with a conflict between team members? How did you address the situation, and what steps did you take to resolve it?

Tell me about a situation where you had to work with a diverse group of colleagues to accomplish a shared goal. How did you collaborate, and what were the outcomes?

Describe a time when you had to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. How did you prioritise and manage your time and what were the results?

Have you ever faced a setback or failure in a project? How did you react?

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Using the STAR method for your next behavioral interview (worksheet included)

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The purpose of behavioral interviewing is to objectively measure a potential employee’s past behaviors as a predictor of future results. In behavioral interviews, candidates are asked to give specific examples of when they demonstrated particular behaviors or skills. Here are some example behavioral interview questions:

• Tell me about a time when you worked as part of a team to successfully execute a project.
• Do you have any experience with solving complex problems?
• What is a project that you are most proud of?
• Tell me about a time you failed.

You may notice that a couple of these questions are close-ended, meaning that in a normal every-day conversation you may respond with a simple “yes” or “no.” In a behavioral interview, it is important to practice a “yes, and…” mentality. In other words, provide context for your interviewer with an example that can help you demonstrate the depth of your skills and knowledge.

Interview Tips

When preparing your responses for a behavioral interview, you will also want to keep in mind the following:

• Focus your responses on actual behaviors and emotions. It can be tempting to say what you think will help you get the job, but bending the truth in a job interview can be risky. What you say, if not truthful, can come across as disingenuous to an interviewer, and may not match up with your application materials ( resume, CV, cover letter ) or what a referral has shared about you.
• Describe your role in past situations. When it comes to sharing your experiences with a potential employer, it is important to show ownership of accomplishments by using “I” statements. This can be especially tricky when giving examples of teamwork or collaboration, but using “we” statements can make it difficult for an employer to have a clear understanding of what your skills are. Instead, focus your response on how you contributed to the outcomes of the team efforts.
• Provide specific examples of your actions. Avoid giving answers that are too generalized. When responding to behavioral interview questions, it is important to share specific and clear examples that can give your interviewer insight to your potential as a candidate.
• Reveal your skills related to the job. Your interviewer will prepare questions that will relate directly to the responsibilities of the role. For example, if the target role requires supervision of others or working in a team-based environment, you may be asked to share examples of times when you demonstrated effective leadership or collaboration. If you are asked to share your strengths, refer to the job description to hone in on what skills are important to the role. The ability to communicate effectively, work well with others, and think creatively are a few common descriptors used in internship postings.

The STAR method

S.T.A.R. is a useful acronym and an effective formula for structuring your behavioral interview response. Let’s start by breaking down the formula:

• Situation (20%), explain the situation so that your interviewer understands the context of your example, they do not need to know every detail!
• Task (10%), talk about the task that you took responsibility for completing or the goal of your efforts.
• Action (60%), describe the actions that you personally took to complete the task or reach the end goal. Highlight skills or character traits addressed in the question.
• Result (10%), explain the positive outcomes or results generated by your actions or efforts. Here, it is important to highlight quantifiable results. You may also want to emphasize what you learned from the experience or your key takeaways.

The percentages listed in the graphic above represent the time to dedicate to each section of your story. These numbers are meant to guide you, but don’t worry about getting it exactly right! The most important thing to keep in mind is that most of your response should focus on your A ctions.

Sample response

Here is an example STAR-formatted response for the prompt, “tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership.” Instead of responding simply with “I tutored kids in math,” provide context for your interviewer and demonstrate your skills through an engaging example.

• Situation: When I was a junior in high school, there were several students in my math class who were struggling with some of the more difficult concepts.
• Task: With an upcoming national exam, I was asked by my math teacher to start an after school session to assist the other students.
• Action: I stayed after school twice a week to review class materials and homework. I created a comprehensive study guide. I demonstrated the best methods for solving difficult problems, explained strategies that worked for me, and developed new problems to help them practice.
• Result: Our class average for the national exam was the highest it had been in over ten years, and overall the students I helped were able to develop a better understanding and appreciation for math.

Preparing your responses

When preparing examples to share in an interview, it can feel overwhelming and unrealistic to predict and prepare responses for all questions that may (or may not) come up. While the example shared above was in response to a question about leadership, it could also be adapted to questions regarding communication skills, work ethic, and time management/organization. Consider how the examples you prepare may connect to one or more question, and prepare to adapt your responses on the fly.

Start by identifying both technical and transferable skills needed within a particular role. Review the job description and role responsibilities, paying close attention to the usage and frequency of certain action verbs. Depending on the size and age of a company, you can also use Glassdoor Interview Reviews to learn about others’ experiences and find potential interview questions. Prepare 3-5 stories by creating a bulleted outline or jotting down notes using CAPD’s STAR method worksheet . It can be tempting to script or memorize certain stories, but doing so may limit your ability to adapt as needed in an interview, and can seem unnatural or disingenuous to an interviewer.

Want to learn more as you prepare?  Here are more interview tips .

Time to practice

Ready to start practicing? Schedule a behavioral mock interview with a CAPD staff member to practice your responses, receive feedback, and gain confidence before the real thing. With MIT’s Alumni Advisors Hub , you may be able to find alum from your target company who are willing to provide insight and conduct behavioral mock interviews, as well as coding or technical question prep. You can also use LinkedIn’s Interview Prep tool to receive instantaneous, AI-powered feedback on pacing, how many times you’re using filler words, and sensitive phrases to avoid.

After the interview

Take some time to reflect. What went well? What could go better next time? Jot down some notes to celebrate your wins and to help yourself prepare for future interviews.

Lastly you’ll want to email to your interviewer(s) within 24 hours to thank them for their time and reiterate your interest and excitement for the role. If you spoke with multiple interviewers, consider emailing each one individually. It doesn’t hurt to include some reasons why you think you’d be a great fit, and mention anything worth noting or revisiting from the interview. Our professional correspondence samples can help you to get started.

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25 STAR Interview Questions and Best Answers for 2024

Are you preparing for a job interview and heard of the STAR interview technique? The STAR interview technique is a powerful tool that can help you give a clear and concise response to behavioral questions. This technique helps you articulate your past experiences and how you dealt with specific scenarios.

The STAR interview technique involves breaking down your response into four key components: Situation, Task, Action, and Result. By following this structure, you can provide a comprehensive answer that showcases your abilities and demonstrates your potential as a candidate.

It’s critical to prepare for a STAR interview as it can be the difference between landing your dream job and missing out on the opportunity. A well-crafted response using the STAR interview technique can leave a positive impression on the interviewer and showcase your capabilities.

In this article, we’ll cover 25 STAR interview questions and provide the best possible answers. By the end, you’ll have a thorough understanding of how to utilize the STAR interview technique and will be better prepared for your next job interview.

Background Information

When it comes to interviewing candidates for a position, hiring managers often use the STAR method to assess their skills and experience. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and this method helps to provide a structured approach to interviewing.

Overview of the STAR interview questions and format

The STAR interview format involves asking candidates behavioral questions about specific situations they have been in and how they handled them. The interviewer will ask the candidate to describe a situation, the task they needed to accomplish, the actions they took, and the results they achieved.

For example, a hiring manager might ask a candidate to describe a time when they had to solve a difficult problem at work. The candidate might respond by describing a specific scenario, the steps they took to solve the problem, and the successful outcome that resulted from their efforts.

Differences between STAR interview and other interviews

One of the main differences between the STAR interview and other types of interviews is that it focuses on specific situations rather than hypothetical scenarios. The interviewer is looking for concrete examples of how the candidate has handled challenging situations in the past.

Another difference is that the STAR interview is more structured than other interviews. The interviewer follows a specific format and asks questions in a specific order, which helps to ensure that each candidate is assessed in a consistent and fair manner.

How hiring managers use STAR interviews to assess candidates

Hiring managers use the STAR interview to assess a candidate’s problem-solving skills, communication skills, and ability to work under pressure. By asking candidates to describe specific situations and their response to them, hiring managers can gain a better understanding of how the candidate might handle similar situations in the future.

In addition, the STAR interview helps to provide a clear and concise picture of the candidate’s skills and experience. Each question is designed to reveal specific information about the candidate, which can then be used to make a more informed decision about their suitability for the position.

The STAR interview format is a powerful tool for hiring managers, and understanding how to prepare for and answer STAR interview questions can greatly increase a candidate’s chances of landing their dream job.

Preparation for a STAR Interview

In order to have a successful STAR interview, there are several key preparation steps that you should take. These steps will help you to communicate your experiences and accomplishments effectively, and to stand out as a strong candidate for the job position.

Key Preparation Steps

Review the job description: Review the job description thoroughly in order to understand the key skills and experiences that the interviewer is looking for. Make sure that you are able to speak to those skills and experiences in the STAR interview.

Reflect on your experiences: Reflect on your past experiences and identify examples that demonstrate the skills and experiences listed in the job description. Write down specific examples so that you can easily refer to them during the interview.

Practice: Practice answering STAR interview questions with a friend or family member. This will help you to feel more comfortable during the interview and to deliver your answers with confidence.

Importance of Research

Researching the company and job position is critical for a successful STAR interview. It demonstrates to the interviewer that you are interested and invested in the job and company. Here are some tips for effective research:

Go to the company website: Review the company’s website to understand its mission, values, and culture. Look for any recent news or press releases.

Read reviews: Read reviews on websites like Glassdoor to get an idea of what employees and former employees think of the company.

Research the industry: Research the industry in which the company operates in order to understand the current trends and challenges that the company may be facing.

Effective Communication

Effective communication during a STAR interview is key in order to demonstrate your skills and experiences effectively. Here are some tips for effective communication:

Be concise: Keep your answers concise and to the point. Focus on the key details and don’t get bogged down in unnecessary details.

Be clear: Make sure that your answers are clear and understandable. Use language that is easy to understand and avoid technical jargon.

Be confident: Speak confidently and clearly. Project your voice and maintain eye contact with the interviewer.

By following these preparation steps and communication tips, you can have a successful STAR interview that allows you to showcase your skills and experiences effectively.

STAR Interview Questions and Best Answers

One effective way to prepare for an interview is to familiarize oneself with common interview questions and have a strategy for answering them effectively. In this section, we will discuss common STAR interview questions and how to answer them using the S.T.A.R (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format.

Using the S.T.A.R Format to Answer Interview Questions

When an interviewer asks a behavioral question, such as “Tell me about a time when you had to handle a difficult situation with a customer,” using the S.T.A.R format can be helpful in providing a clear and concise response. This format involves:

• S ituation or  C ontext (what was the problem, and what was the context?)
• T ask or  C hallenge (what was your role in the situation?)
• A ction (what did you do to address the situation?)
• R esult (what was the outcome, and how did you contribute to it?)

By using this format, the interviewee can clearly demonstrate their skills and experience in handling challenges and achieving positive outcomes.

Common STAR Interview Questions and Best Answers

Below are 25 common STAR interview questions and some tips on how to answer them effectively.

• Tell me about a time when you had to solve a difficult problem.  Use a recent example, explain the problem, your role, and the steps you took to solve it.
• Describe a time you had to handle a conflict with a coworker.  Show how you maintained professionalism and resolved the issue.
• Tell me about a time when you had to lead a team.  Give an example of how you motivated and guided the team to reach a goal.
• Describe a situation when you had to think on your feet to solve a problem.  Explain the emergency or unexpected situation, your role, and the steps you took to solve it.
• Tell me about a time when you had to manage a challenging project.  Describe the project, your role, and how you managed to complete it successfully.
• Describe a situation when you had to adapt to a new situation or unexpected change.  Explain the situation, how you adapted to the change, and the outcome.
• Tell me about a successful project you delivered on time and within budget.  Explain the project, your role, and how you achieved success.
• Describe a time when you had to persuade someone to accept your idea.  Explain the situation, your idea, and how you convinced the person.
• Tell me about a time when you had to learn a new skill or technology.  Explain the skill or technology, your motivation to learn it, and how you mastered it.
• **Describe a time when you had to resolve a customer complaint.

Skills and Competencies for STAR Interviews

When preparing for a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) interview, it is important to identify the key soft and hard skills needed for a successful interview.

Soft skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, are crucial in demonstrating your ability to work well with others and effectively manage challenging situations. Hard skills, such as technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge, are equally important in showcasing your qualifications for the job.

In addition to identifying these skills, it is important to showcase your technical and non-technical competencies in the interview. This means highlighting your ability to not only perform the required tasks, but also demonstrating how you successfully managed various situations and achieved results.

To effectively showcase your skills and competencies, it is important to answer interview questions in a clear and specific manner. Avoid general and vague responses, as they may not adequately demonstrate your abilities. Instead, use specific examples and quantifiable results to illustrate your accomplishments.

For example, instead of saying that you have “strong communication skills,” give a specific example of a time when you effectively communicated with a difficult coworker, client, or team member. This demonstrated your ability to listen, collaborate, and negotiate effectively.

Being prepared to identify and showcase your key skills and competencies in a STAR interview will help you stand out as a strong candidate for the position.

Handling Difficult STAR Interview Questions

Preparing for a STAR interview is essential, as it helps you put your best foot forward and demonstrate how you’ve used professional and personal experiences to excel in past roles. However, sometimes you may come across difficult questions during your STAR interview.

Preparation strategies for handling challenging STAR interview questions

Preparing for difficult STAR interview questions involves two essential strategies: research and practice.

Before the interview, research the company and position you’re applying for, as well as their core values and goals. This will help you predict potential questions you may face and give you a good idea of how to answer them.

Practicing is another great way to handle difficult STAR interview questions. Research common questions asked during a STAR interview, and practice answering them with a friend or family member. You can also record your answers and observe your body language and tone to identify areas of improvement.

Examples of challenging STAR interview questions and how to approach them

• Tell me about a time when there was a conflict with a coworker, and how did you handle it?

This question seeks to know your conflict resolution skills, interpersonal skills, and tactfulness. To approach this question, highlight how you handled the situation calmly and professionally. Use specific examples of how you listened to the other person’s perspective, worked together to find common ground, and resolved the issue respectfully in the end.

• What do you do when you face a challenge that you don’t have the skills or experience to handle?

This question seeks to evaluate your adaptability and problem-solving skills. Use this opportunity to demonstrate how you have successfully handled challenges beyond your experience, such as seeking help from mentors or colleagues or engaging in self-education to acquire new skills.

• Tell me about a time when you failed to achieve a goal, and how did you overcome it?

This question seeks to know your resilience and tenacity. Be honest about your failure but focus more on how you positively approached the experience. Discuss how you analyzed the failure, learned from your mistakes, and took corrective actions to achieve your goal ultimately.

Importance of maintaining a positive attitude and staying calm during a STAR interview

When answering difficult STAR interview questions, always maintain a positive attitude and stay calm. Ensure you listen to the interviewer’s questions, take a moment to think, and compose yourself before answering. Demonstrate that you can remain calm even when faced with a potentially challenging question.

Remember, employers are looking for the best match for their organization. Maintaining a positive attitude and staying calm during difficult STAR interview questions will give you an edge over other candidates.

Preparing for potentially difficult STAR interview questions through research and practice will help you handle any question with ease. Be confident and maintain a positive attitude, even when faced with challenging interview questions.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls in STAR Interviews

When it comes to acing a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) interview, there are a few common mistakes and pitfalls that candidates often fall into. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:

Lack of preparation

Perhaps one of the biggest mistakes you can make in a STAR interview is not preparing thoroughly beforehand. Not knowing the job description, company culture, or the specific qualifications of the role you’re applying for can seriously limit your ability to provide strong STAR examples.

Focusing too much on the situation

It’s important to provide context for your STAR examples, but it’s also important not to get bogged down in the details. If you spend too much time describing the situation or task, you risk losing your interviewer’s attention and not being able to fully demonstrate your skills.

Overuse of “we” instead of “I”

While teamwork is important, it’s essential that you can demonstrate your own personal contributions to a successful outcome. Overemphasizing the contributions of the team can make it seem like you were a passive participant and may hurt your chances of being selected for the role.

Poor storytelling skills

The STAR method should be used to create a narrative that shows off your experience, skills, and successes. However, if you are not a good storyteller and have trouble outlining events in a clear and concise way, then the interviewer may struggle to fully understand the points you’re trying to make.

Tips on How to Avoid Common Mistakes and Pitfalls

The good news is that all of these mistakes can be avoided with a little bit of planning and thoughtfulness. Here are some tips to help you avoid these common pitfalls:

• Research the company and job description beforehand
• Practice your STAR stories ahead of time to ensure they are both concise and engaging
• Use “I” instead of “we” when discussing your personal contributions to successful outcomes
• Focus on the actions you took and the results you achieved, rather than getting bogged down in the details of the situation

Strategies for Recovering from a Poor Interview Performance

Even with careful preparation, it’s still possible to have difficulty with a STAR interview. If you feel like you didn’t perform your best, don’t panic. Here are some recovery strategies to consider:

• Follow up with the interviewer and thank them for their time
• Address any concerns you feel came across in your interview in a follow-up email or note
• Practice your interview skills and continue to work on your STAR stories to improve for future interviews

By keeping these common mistakes and tips in mind, you can ensure that you’re fully prepared to tackle any STAR interview that comes your way.

After the STAR Interview

Congratulations on completing your STAR interview! Don’t relax just yet; there are still a few critical things you should do to ensure that you make the best impression possible. Below are some essential actions you should take after your STAR interview:

Actions to take post-interview

Reflect on the interview : Take some time to think about the interview questions and your answers. This will help you identify areas that you may want to improve upon or expand upon in future job interviews.

Send a thank-you note : Sending a thank-you note after a STAR interview is not only courteous, but it also helps show your continued interest in the position. Make sure to personalize your message and mention specific things that you discussed during the interview.

Follow up on next steps : If your interviewer provided a timeline for when they will make their decision, follow up after that deadline if you haven’t heard back. This shows your enthusiasm and interest in the position.

How to follow up after a STAR interview

If you haven’t heard back from the interviewer after the timeline provided during the interview, it’s okay to follow up with a polite email . In your email, mention the position and the date of the interview. You can also reiterate your interest in the company and the position.

Answers to frequently asked questions about STAR interviews

Q: Is it okay to use personal stories during a STAR interview?

A: Yes, using personal stories is encouraged as they can make your answers more memorable and engaging. Just make sure that your personal stories are appropriate and relevant to the question asked.

Q: Is it necessary to use the STAR format during the entire interview?

A: No, you don’t have to use the STAR format for every question. It’s best to use it for behavioral questions as it helps you provide a structured and thorough answer.

Q: Can I ask questions during a STAR interview?

A: Absolutely! Asking questions is not only acceptable, but it also shows your interest and enthusiasm for the position. Just make sure to prepare some questions beforehand so that you don’t forget anything important.

Following up after a STAR interview is just as crucial as preparing for the interview. Take the necessary actions after the interview, such as reflecting on the interview, sending a thank-you note, and following up on next steps. Don’t forget to personalize your messages and continue showing interest in the position. Good luck with your job search!

Sample Answers to STAR Interview Questions

In this section, we will provide some sample STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses to some common situational interview questions. These examples will help you understand how to structure your answers in a clear and concise manner.

1. Can you tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer?

Situation:  During my time as a customer service representative at XYZ Company, I had a customer who was extremely unhappy with our services.

Task:  My task was to address the customer’s concerns and find a solution that would satisfy both the customer and the company.

Action:  I actively listened to the customer’s complaints and empathized with their frustration. I then apologized for any inconvenience the customer experienced and assured them that I would do everything in my power to find a solution. I reviewed the customer’s account and identified the root cause of the problem. I then collaborated with my team to come up with the best solution for the customer.

Result:  By taking the time to listen to the customer and providing a solution that addressed their concerns, I was able to satisfy the customer and retain their business. The customer left a positive review and referred other customers to our company.

Explanation

This STAR response is effective because it clearly outlines the situation, task, action, and result. The candidate identifies the customer’s concerns and shows empathy, which is an essential quality of excellent customer service. The candidate also demonstrates problem-solving skills by collaborating with their team to come up with a solution.

2. Can you describe a situation where you had to work under pressure?

Situation:  During my time as a project manager, I had a critical project with a tight deadline.

Task:  My task was to ensure that the project was completed on time and within the budget.

Action:  I immediately created a detailed project plan that broke down the tasks into smaller, manageable sections. I then delegated tasks to my team and monitored their progress to ensure that we were on track to meet our deadline. I also identified potential risks and developed contingency plans to mitigate them.

Result:  By taking a proactive approach to project management, I was able to complete the project on time and within budget. The project was well-received by our stakeholders, and we received positive feedback on our team’s performance.

This STAR response is effective because it demonstrates the candidate’s ability to handle high-pressure situations. The candidate showcased their ability to manage projects effectively by breaking down tasks and delegating responsibilities. The candidate also showed excellent problem-solving skills by identifying potential risks and developing contingency plans. Finally, the candidate highlights the positive outcome of the project, which establishes their ability to produce successful results even under pressure.

These sample answers to common situational-based questions using the STAR method showcase the importance of effectively communicating your skills and experiences during an interview.

Tips for Practicing and Mastering STAR Interviews

Are you preparing for a STAR interview? Here are some tips for developing effective responses to STAR interview questions, practicing delivering responses, and building self-confidence:

Strategies for Developing Effective Responses to STAR Interview Questions

• Research the company’s values, mission, and culture. This will help you identify the skills and experiences they value in employees.
• Review the job description and identify the key responsibilities and qualifications. Think about how your past experiences can demonstrate your ability to meet those criteria.
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Be specific about the situation or task, the actions you took, and the results you achieved. Avoid generalizations.
• Use examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to solve problems, work collaboratively, and adapt to change.
• Practice active listening during the interview. Repeat the question to make sure you understand it and take a moment to think before responding.

How to Practice Delivering Responses to STAR Interview Questions

• Write out your responses to common STAR interview questions. Use the STAR method to structure your responses.
• Practice saying your responses out loud. This will help you identify areas where you could improve your delivery or make your responses more concise.
• Record yourself using a webcam or audio recorder. This will allow you to review your responses and identify areas where you could improve your delivery, intonation, or body language.
• Practice with a friend or mentor. Ask them to give you feedback on your responses and delivery.

Advice on How to Build Self-Confidence for a STAR Interview

• Prepare thoroughly. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Research the company, review the job description and practice your responses to common STAR interview questions.
• Use positive self-talk. Remind yourself of your accomplishments and strengths. Tell yourself that you are qualified for the job and that you have valuable experiences to share.
• Visualize success. Imagine yourself doing well in the interview, answering questions confidently, and impressing the interviewer.
• Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing, meditation or visualization can help calm your nerves and boost your confidence. Take deep breaths before the interview, visualize a calm and positive experience or meditate regularly to reduce stress and improve focus.

By following these tips, you can maximize your chances of success in a STAR interview and impress your potential employer with your skills and experience. Good luck!

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STAR Method

Job interviews are an opportunity for recruiters to evaluate your experience and skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, with behavioral questions. The STAR method is a structured way of answering behavioral interview questions by easily and concisely providing concrete examples of your experience and skills.

What is the STAR method?

The STAR method is a technique used for answering behavioral interview questions by describing a specific Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It provides a straightforward format for answering interview questions by prompting you to provide real-life examples of how you handled a situation. With the STAR method, you can easily share details in a compelling and meaningful way. It also helps you to stop rambling and stay focused!

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result:

• Situation = an event, project, or challenge that you faced.
• Task = your responsibilities or assignments in that specific situation.
• Action = the steps you took or the procedure you used in that specific situation.
• Result = the results of your actions.

The STAR method is also known as the CAR method, which stands for Context/Challenge, Action, Result, or the PAR method, which stands for Problem, Action, Result.

When Can You Use the STAR Method?

The STAR method is best used to answer behavioral or competency-based interview questions . These questions focus on how you have behaved in the past and how you handled certain work-related experiences. With these questions, interviewers are generally looking for proof of work-related skills, such as problem-solving, analytical skills, creativity, teamwork abilities, and perseverance.

It is easy to recognize these questions as they usually have openings like:

• Tell me about a time when...
• Describe a time/situation when...
• Have you ever...
• What do you do when...
• How do you...
• Give me an example of...
• Share an example of...

Be careful not to confuse behavioral questions with situational questions , which can also use these openings. Behavioral questions focus on how you handled a situation in the past , while situational questions focus on how you might handle a situation in the future . For example, "Give me an example of how you would handle a co-worker who is not doing their share on a project."

How to Use the Star Method:

Using the start method for an upcoming interview.

Breaking down the steps.

Prepare for your interview..

Most behavioral questions focus on work-related challenges that demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving, leadership skills, and performance under stress. So, before going for your job interview, reread the job description and pick out key skills that you know the company is looking for.

Once you have a list, go over your work history and think of any real-life examples that can showcase these skills. Be prepared to give details.

Be sure to choose some examples of when you failed in a task but ultimately learned something or gained valuable experience. It's not uncommon for an interviewer to ask something like, "Tell me about a mistake you've made and how you handled it." or "Tell me about a time when you failed at a task you were assigned." You will definitely want to be prepared for these kinds of questions.

Describe the Situation (S).

During your interview, the starting point for answering a behavioral question is to use an appropriate scenario that is relevant to the question. Paint a clear picture of the situation you were in or a challenge you faced, describing the context in a concise, focused way. You should emphasize the complexities of the situation but don't go into unnecessary details.

Remember to include the basics of who, what, where, when, and how.

Highlight your Task (T).

The reason you should be telling the story is because you played a key role in it. You should describe the details of your responsibilities in this specific situation as well as any objective that was set for you. Whether you had a short deadline or needed to hit a sales target, describe your task in a concise manner.

Don't confuse this section with the next. You should be describing what you needed to do before you describe what you actually did.

Lay out how you took Action (A).

This is where you describe what you did to achieve your task. Showcase what you did by being very specific and contributing detailed steps on how you reached your goal or solved the problem. Also, keep the focus on you (what you did, how you contributed) by using "I" and not "we."

Share the Result (R).

The final part of your answer should detail the results or outcome of the action you took. This is your moment to shine and explain how you made a positive difference. Your result should always be positive, even when answering a question about a time you failed or made a mistake.

The result part of your answer is a crucial step, so don't leave it out! The interviewer absolutely wants to know why this story you just told them matters, so be sure to emphasize any results you achieved or anything you learned and take credit for your behavior. If possible, quantifying your answers with numbers is always a great option.

Question: Have you ever gone above and beyond to help a customer? What did you do?

Answer: Situation: My previous position as an innkeeper was at a modest manor house on the outskirts of town. This was not a live-in position. One night, we had only one guest, an elderly lady, and she was uncomfortable with staying alone so far from anyone else.

Task: The guest said she may leave and find other accommodations which would have meant that we would've lost the room fare for the 3 nights she was staying with us. I needed to think of a way to ensure she was comfortable in staying at the manor.

Action: As there were no other guests expected during her stay, I packed a suitcase and stayed in one of the guest rooms for the 3 nights. I also gave her my cell phone number and made sure I was available whenever she needed me or just wanted some company.

Result: Because of my initiative, the guest was able to enjoy her stay at the manor house. Not only did she give us a very positive review specifically thanking me, but she also recommended the manor house to a number of her friends and acquaintances, directly leading to 5 more bookings that season.

Question: Tell me about a major setback you’ve had. How did you deal with it?

Answer: Situation: In my current job, I process claims for customers. In one instance, I unknowingly made an error when inputting the client's information. This resulted in pushback from the client and put a lot of stress on my team.

Task: I was determined not to make a mistake like this again and had to come up with a way to ensure that I never did.

Action: I spoke with my manager about different organization strategies that could be implemented to help not only me but other members of my team.

Result: Since I discovered a more efficient way of inputting customer information, I have not made that mistake again.

Question: Describe a time when you’ve had to sell an idea to your colleagues.

Answer: Situation: When I was in college, I served on the committee of our theater group. We had decided to hold a fundraiser for community centers that teach theater to children from underprivileged communities.

Task: We chose to hold a concert with a band that had agreed to perform at a discounted rate and had narrowed our choice to two bands. My fellow committee members were leaning towards the cheaper of the two bands, but I wanted to convince them to go with the more expensive band.

Action: I put together a presentation with different sales projections to show them that the more expensive band would generate more interest, and therefore more revenue, as that band was more popular among college students. I showed that the band's popularity would allow us to sell more tickets at a higher price, making up for the initial cost to hire the band.

Result: The committee unanimously agreed with my idea. When the concert was held, we generated a revenue of about $300,000, which far exceeded our initial goal.

Tips for Using the STAR Method:

• The STAR method is meant to be simple and concise. Try to only use one or two sentences for each letter of the acronym.
• If you don't have a lot of work experience, you can share examples from internships, volunteer work, school projects, and your personal life.
• Follow all parts of the STAR method in the correct order and be as specific and precise in your answers as possible.
• Answer questions honestly with no embellishments or ommissions.
• For each answer, give a detailed account of one event only.
• Vary your situations rather than taking them all from one area of your life.
• Practice your answers, either with a friend or in the mirror.

Things to Avoid with the STAR Method:

• Using situations that are unrelated to the question.
• Not answering the question. If you absolutely cannot think of a situation that is relevant, say so. However, instead of simply moving on to the next question, talk about how you would respond in that situation.
• Going to the interview unprepared. If you have to think up a story on the spot, you will end up rambling.
• Including situations that have no positive outcome and that paint you in a negative light. However, you should include some situations with negative results where there is still a positive outcome, showing your strength in the face of adversity.
• Over-preparing to the point that your answers are robotic.

What is the STAR method of interviewing?

The STAR method is a structured way of answering behavioral interview questions which prompts you to provide real-life examples of how you handled a situation. With the STAR method, you can easily share details in a compelling and meaningful way.

How do you use the STAR method?

• Prepare for your interview .
• Describe the Situation .
• Highlight Your Task .
• Lay out how you took Action .
• Share the Result .

Why is the STAR method important?

The STAR method is useful in answering behavioral interview questions as it helps you to concisely provide concrete examples of your experience and skills without rambling or going off-topic. It also ensures that you fully answer the interviewer's questions.

Related Articles:

Behavioral interview questions, personality interview questions, cultural fit interview questions, structured interviews, how to write a follow-up email after an interview.