STAR Method

THE STAR INTERVIEW

Many companies use the STAR format for interviews. If your interview is in STAR format you need to learn how to answer questions and converse in STAR. I have included the definition of STAR and a couple of examples of a question with the STAR format answers. For more information on STAR, check out this link @Indeed – STAR Information

STAR – DEFINITION

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 coworker. This situation can be from a 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 under a tight deadline, resolve a conflict with a coworker, 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 coworker did. (Tip: Instead of saying “We did xyx,” say “I did xyz.”)

Result: Finally, explain the outcomes or results generated by the action taken. You might emphasize what you accomplished, or what you learned.

Q & A – STAR

Question 1: Tell me about a time you had to complete a task under a tight deadline. Describe the situation and explain how you handled it.

Answer : While I typically like to plan my work out in stages and complete it piece by piece, I can also achieve strong work under a tight deadline.
Once at a former company, an employee left days before a big project of his was due. I was asked to take it over, with only a few days to learn about and complete the project. I created a task force, delegated work, and we all completed the assignment with a day to spare. I think I tend to thrive under tight deadlines.

Question 1 : Tell me about a time you had to complete a task under a tight deadline. Describe the situation and explain how you handled it.

Answer : While I typically like to plan my work out in stages and complete it piece by piece, I can also achieve strong work under a tight deadline.
Once at a former company, an employee left days before a big project of his was due. I was asked to take it over, with only a few days to learn about and complete the project. I created a task force, delegated work, and we all completed the assignment with a day to spare. I think I tend to thrive under tight deadlines.

Question 2 : What do you do when a team member refuses to complete his or her portion of the work?

Answer : 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, once I was working on a team project and two of the team members got into an argument and both refused to complete their assignments. They were both dissatisfied with their workloads so I arranged a team meeting where we rearranged the assignments for the team. This made everyone happier, more productive, and our project was a success.