Securing your dream job isn’t just about having the right qualifications and skills; it’s about effectively conveying your experiences and capabilities in a way that captivates your interviewers. One powerful technique for achieving this is through storytelling, and a structured approach like the STAR method can make your answers memorable and impactful.
Understanding the STAR Method
The STAR method stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It’s a structured way to respond to competency-based questions, allowing you to showcase your skills and accomplishments in a clear and engaging manner.
- Situation: Set the stage by describing the context and challenges you faced.
- Task: Outline the specific tasks or goals you needed to achieve.
- Action: Detail the steps you took to address the situation and accomplish the task. The Action part should be the most comprehensive part of your answer.
- Result: Conclude with the outcomes of your actions, emphasising your positive contributions.
Why Storytelling Matters in Job Interviews
Storytelling is a powerful tool because it connects with people on an emotional level, making your responses more memorable and relatable. When interviewers hear a factual and well-crafted narrative, it helps them understand not only what you did but also how you think and approach challenges. This is a great way to make a lasting impression.
Preparing your STAR examples
Of course you never know what examples will be needed for your interview, but you can prepare by crafting a set of narratives about your own experiences that are relevant to the competencies outlined in the person specification. ChatGPT can be useful for researching possible questions.
Some examples of the types of questions you might get asked could include:
- Can you provide an example of a time when you had to work effectively in a team.
- Can you tell me about a situation where building strong relationships was important in achieving your goals.
- Describe a situation when you were required to use your initiative to complete a complex task.
Engaging the Interview Panel
Beyond the STAR method, it’s essential to present your stories in an enthusiastic and engaging manner. Maintain eye contact, use a confident tone, and convey genuine passion for your experiences. Remember, you’re not just listing achievements; you’re sharing a narrative that showcases your skills and personality.
Leaving a lasting impression
Mastering the art of storytelling in job interviews is a valuable skill that sets you apart from other candidates. The STAR method provides a framework, but it’s your enthusiasm and ability to connect with the interview panel that will leave a lasting impression. So, the next time you step into an interview, think of it as an opportunity to share your story and make a lasting impact on your potential employers. Good luck!
Resources to help
Surrey has some great resources for interview prep. Have a look at The Job Interview, Using STAR to evidence your skills and our interview simulator – Interview 360.
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