The AGA Group Articles http://iknerarticles.com Providing Practical Insights Into Todays Job Market Wed, 14 Mar 2012 13:05:49 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Using The STAR Technique When Responding To Interview Questions http://iknerarticles.com/2012/03/04/using-the-star-technique-when-responding-to-interview-questions/ http://iknerarticles.com/2012/03/04/using-the-star-technique-when-responding-to-interview-questions/#comments Sun, 04 Mar 2012 19:48:54 +0000 Greg Ikner http://iknerarticles.com/?p=1202 Continue reading →]]> In today’s job market we can agree that preparation is a key component of your job search. You prepare for the interview by researching the company and making sure you are a good fit for the job. It is equally important that you prepare for the interview by understanding how to effectively respond to questions. Whether we will admit it or not; most of us are guilty of rambling at times when providing responses. During your interview is not the time to ramble; instead you should provide responses in a clear and precise manner. The inability to provide proper responses during interviews could be the difference in advancing to the next round or keeping you from receiving a job offer. One interviewing technique used by some Interviewers is referred to as STAR’s.

Situation: Begin your response by sharing the situation or example you will be referencing. Your example could be the company, job or initiative you were involved.Task:What were the objectives[s] of the project or assignment? Actions:What was your role in the project? How were your skills or expertise utilized?Results:What were the results of your actions? In other words did you close the sale or complete the project on time or under budget etc.

Let’s take a look at a [STAR’s] response. Jane is a Project Manager for All-Nails Construction Company. One of her proudest moments involved her work on the Hammer-Toolbox Project in Anytown USA. A typical question asked by most Interviewers: “Jane please share with me your proudest accomplishments with All- Nails Construction”.  Please note Jane’s response as she applies the STAR’s technique.

Mr. Sawblade, as a Project Manager for All-Nails Construction I was assigned as a lead on the Hammer-Toolbox Project in Anytown. This Sports Stadium Project was a major win for All-Nails Construction and represented 20% of our 2011 revenue. We had a firm completion and budget deadline. My responsibility was to coordinate all activity between All-Nail employees and the independent contractors working with us. I was able to assemble a team that worked extremely well together and understood what their responsibilities were. As a result of my leadership and ability to build an effective team we were able to complete the project 3 weeks ahead of schedule which resulted in a savings of $$$$. All-Nails Co. recognized my contributions by awarding me a certificate of accomplishment and recognition in the company monthly newsletter.

By using STAR’s the Interviewer is able to follow your response and understand exactly what you are saying. It is this ability to communicate clearly that will differentiate you from other candidates. The Interviewer now views you as an effective communicator.

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