What do you need to know to nail it?
Preparation is crucial when approaching a competency-based interview, this is your opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and qualifications effectively. Competency-based interviews focus on specific skills and behaviours relevant to the job you’re applying for. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:
- Understand the Job Description: Carefully review the job advert and description to identify the key competencies and skills required. These are the areas you should focus on during your preparation.
- Identify Relevant Competencies: Create a list of competencies that are likely to be assessed in the interview based on the job description. Common competencies include teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and technical skills.
- STAR Method: Practice the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method for answering competency-based questions. This framework helps you provide structured, detailed responses:
Situation: Describe the situation or context where you demonstrated the competency.
Task: Explain the specific task or challenge you faced.
Action: Detail the actions you took to address the task.
Result: Summarize the outcomes and impact of your actions, emphasizing positive results whenever possible.
- Compile Examples: For each competency, think of specific examples from your past experiences (work, volunteer, academic, or personal) that demonstrate your ability in that area. Aim for a variety of examples to cover different situations and skills.
- Quantify Results: Whenever possible, quantify your achievements in your examples. Numbers and statistics can make your accomplishments more compelling. For example, “increased sales by 22% in six months” is more impactful than “improved sales.”
- Practice with Mock Interviews: Ask a friend, family member, or careers specialist to conduct mock competency-based interviews. Using a list of common competency questions. This practice will help you refine your responses and get feedback.
- Self-Assessment: Reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses related to the job’s competencies. Be prepared to discuss areas where you may have limited experience but are willing to learn and grow.
- Research the Company: Understand the company’s values, culture, and specific challenges it may be facing. Tailor your examples to align with the company’s needs and mission.
- Review Your CV: Ensure that your CV accurately reflects your experiences and achievements. Be ready to discuss any details from your CV during the interview.
- Prepare Questions: Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the role and company. Avoid asking questions that can be easily answered by researching the company online.
- Body Language and Communication: Practice good interview etiquette, such as maintaining eye contact, having a firm handshake, and speaking clearly and confidently.
- Time Management: Be mindful of your interview time. Keep your responses concise, but thorough, and stay within the allotted time frame.
- Stay Calm and Confident: On the day of the interview, take deep breaths, stay calm, and believe in yourself. Confidence in your abilities will come across positively. Ask to return to a question if needed.
- Follow-Up: After the interview, send a thank-you email expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the role.
Remember that competency-based interviews are about providing concrete evidence of your skills and experiences. Being well-prepared with specific examples and using the STAR method will help you stand out and increase your chances of success.
For more support go to COMPETENCY-INTERVIEW-QUESTIONS.pdf (heidiwrightrecruitment.co.uk)