Page 113 – Prepory

Going into an interview is nerve-racking for most people. Maybe you are the kind of person doing every bit of research possible on the company and the interviewer. Practicing your answers to common interview questions is surely recommended. But then there are the kind of questions that you may not be able to practice word-for-word. The kind of questions that tend to add the most anxiety to jobseekers, behavioral questions. Before you panic, the STAR method is your best asset to answering these questions.

There may be other challenging questions you may be concerned about such as questions regarding employment gaps or why you left certain companies. However, with the right coaching and practice, you can have a well-prepared answer drafted in your mind. Behavioral questions vary and will require you to think on the spot, remain calm, and provide an answer that is both relatable and highlights you well.

We are going to walk you through some commonly asked behavioral questions, what the STAR method is, and how to apply it. We even have some examples!

Commonly asked behavioral questions

Even though you will likely have to think on your feet, there are common behavioral questions you can prepare for. Most behavioral questions are going to focus on your ability to work collaboratively, lead, adapt, communicate effectively, and handle the pressure.

The kind of role you are applying for can also provide you with insight into what kind of behavioral questions the interviewer may ask.

For example, if you are applying for a customer service focused role, you can anticipate a question that will provide them with context on how you handle disgruntled customers or went above and beyond for a customer.

Tell me about a time when you were in conflict with a peer and how the situation was resolved.
Discuss a time when you had a disagreement with a manager. How did you handle the situation?
Tell me about a mistake you made, how did you handle it?
What is your biggest professional accomplishment, why?
Tell me about a time you handled an angry customer?
Tell me about a time you had to work under a lot of pressure and how you handled it.
Tell me about a time you had an unexpected obstacle and how you handled it.

STAR

The STAR Method

The STAR method provides you with a clear map of how to answer behavioral questions.

Have you ever told a friend a story, only to forget where you were going with the story? We see our clients do this almost every time when we first begin working with them.

While chatting too long with no clear structure with a friend poses no risk, doing this in an interview can be detrimental. Interviewees often spend too much time explaining the problem and rush through the solution with an awkward ending. You do not have to be afraid of behavioral questions, on the contrary, these questions provide you with the ability to share a lot of your personality and accomplishments. This part of storytelling is what can set you apart from other candidates.

Before the interview, think of a time you had a problem at work and practice using the STAR method to explain the issue. Be sure that the example you share ends in a positive manner and paints you in a good light.

Start by identifying the Situation, or the problem. Give a few details to explain the severity of the issue at hand and how it would affect the company.

Then, explain the Task or the objective to fix the situation. In other words, what needed to be done to fix the problem?

Next, explain the Action taken to alleviate the situation. When explaining the action, use action verbs. Take more time to explain this section than the first two. Use a great deal of detail here as it showcases your initiative and ability.

Finally, share the Results. If the results were quantified, include those numbers. For example, saying “I created a computer software that increased productivity by 45%.” Numbers show rather than tell how effective the applicant’s input was.

STAR responses help you organize your answer, provide necessary details, and fully answer the question. Answers based on examples are far more effective than vague, general responses that do not highlight your skills.

Example 1: A time an unexpected obstacle came up

“I was the Operations Manager of a large distribution company. One year, one of our manufacturing factories closed down unexpectedly and stalled over 1,000 shipments from our warehouse. I knew this problem would cause a large issue so I called my director to ask if I could approve a discount for our clients’ next purchase and she approved it. I personally called each client to apologize and offered a discount for the inconvenience. The next month, our clients ordered 30% more than the previous month. Clients expressed gratitude for our proactive customer service.”

Example 2: A time when you disagreed with a manager

“As a Human Resources Generalist, there was a time when one employee provided me with a verbal complaint against another employee. I went to the Human Resources Director to move forward with filing a formal complaint to make sure it was on record and we could address the problem with all parties involved. My Director did not want to run the paperwork and instead wanted to go straight to speaking with each individual, I did not agree with this process. I requested a quick meeting with him to communicate my concern over not having a paper trail for this verbal complaint and provided a time when this happened in the past at a previous role and it turned into a big mess. I offered to take on the paperwork and complete the paperwork the same business day. The Director agreed and within 3 business days, we had resolved the issue at hand to ensure all our employees felt safe and heard. The person that filed the complaint came to me and thanked me for handling everything so quickly. And I think it’s this attitude to strive for my employees to feel safe that increased employee satisfaction by 30% during my tenure at my previous job.”

Example 3: Tell me about a mistake you made, how did you handle it?

“Early in my executive assistant career, I made the mistake of double booking The Major Gifts Officer for two important meetings with two potential major gift donors. I was going back and forth with both individuals and pitched two separate times, one replied and asked for the time that I had pitched to the other donor. I did not notice the overlap and booked the call. Only for the other client to confirm the time I provided. As soon as I realized the overlap, I was mortified. All parties, my manager, and each donor were very busy people and we had finally decided on a time. I began to panic and then quickly calmed myself down because that wasn’t going to help me find a solution. As an EA, I understand I am the problem solver. I picked up the phone and called the second individual and apologized profusely for the confusion in time. I told her I’d like to make sure I schedule her in as we are very excited to meet with her. Over the phone, we found a time that worked for everyone. Afterward, I told my manager what had transpired and that moving forward, I will add a time block labeled TBD for every time I pitch while I await confirmation to ensure this does not happen again. My manager laughed it off and said she appreciated that I had not come to her trying to solve the problem and instead handled what I knew I could handle.”

Don't

What NOT to do

Do not speak ill of previous employers or colleagues. This is often tricky for job seekers who have had terrible job experiences but it is imperative that you not add your opinions and speak badly of a former employee or manager. The interviewer does not know you, and it will reflect poorly on you. Stick to the facts and refrain from drama.

If you are discussing an obstacle you had to overcome that is not associated with a person (e.g. last-minute venue cancelations) by all means, paint the dramatic picture of the situation you had to handle. But when the obstacle is in regards to a person, tread lightly and stick to the positive outcome.

Fact: My Director did not want to run the paperwork and instead wanted to go straight to speaking with each individual, I did not agree with this.

Opinion: My director hated doing any kind of paperwork especially on Fridays when he left early to golf. To top it off, he had favorites and the complaint was filed against his golf buddy. He wanted to just give him a free pass and I did not agree with this.

STAR

The STAR Method

To recap, the STAR method is a great way for you to efficiently and effectively answer questions. Think of a few different scenarios that can apply to different questions and focus on STAR – Situation, Task, Action, Results. Do not get stuck trying to memorize your story verbatim. This is how you get yourself confused and then panic when you realize you missed a word or sentence. Instead, focus on STAR and the general story. When you decide on which story you are picking, proceed to move through the situation, task, action, and result.

How to Use the STAR Method to Ace Your Interview

Maybe you are the kind of person doing every bit of research possible on the company and the interviewer. Practicing your answers to common interview questions is surely recommended.

Prepory2024-10-01T11:47:35-04:00December 4, 2020|Interview Skills|

Benefits of Cultural Diversity in the Workplace

Cultural diversity in the workplace has been a growing effort across different industries.

Prepory2024-10-01T12:20:56-04:00November 24, 2020|Professional Development|

How to Write Emory Supplemental Essays: 2022-23 Guide

When applying to selective institutions, supplemental essays are a huge part of the process. It is imperative that you take the time needed to write, edit, and revise a stellar supplemental essay.

Prepory2024-09-30T13:38:24-04:00November 10, 2020|College Essay tips|

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Emory University is a highly selective, private research university in Atlanta, Georgia, with only an 18% acceptance rate. Due to its competitive application process, there are two required Emory supplemental essays. This helps the admissions committee personalize their admission decisions among a large pool of equally qualified high school applicants with impressive GPAs and high test scores. Emory supplementals are key factors in the admissions process, so its important to familiarize yourself with past Emory University essay prompts, Emory essays that worked, and tips for writing compelling Emory supplemental essays that will help you stand apart from other applicants.

Emory University has an esteemed liberal arts college, noteworthy professional and graduate programs, and is well-known for its healthcare system. The school attracts lots of medical students and is recognized as one of the nation’s leaders in research. There are lots of reasons why Emory University receives so much attention, and there are lots of qualified applicants who would like to take advantage of the great opportunities Emory has to offer. Read on to gain insights and tips on how to write a successful supplemental essay.

Before you get started on your Emory University supplemental essays for 2022-23:

As a highly-selective institution, Emory University requires two Emory supplemental essays as a part of its application. These brief essays, both of which are under 200 words, help Emory’s admissions officers get a feel for applicants’ individual personalities, passions, and opinions. Test scores and statistics are important, but each Emory University application essay helps narrow down prospective students and personalize the admissions process. Focus on writing personal, compelling Emory supplemental essays in order to stand out and give the admission committee a reason to want to admit you. Emory supplemental essays are typically announced around the end of June. In the meantime, in order to prepare for the college application season, familiarize yourself with the Emory supplemental essays of 2021.

How to answer the “Academic interests” Emory essay prompts

The first Emory University supplemental essay is always the same and is devoted to your academic interests. This essay is 200 words and is often referred to as the “why this major?” essay. The specific Emory essay prompt is:

What academic areas are you interested in exploring in college?

Of course, not all incoming freshman know what they want to major in; don’t let this dissuade you. Use this Emory application essay to convey your passion for and commitment to learning — regardless of whether or not you know what you’d like to study.

Generally, though, your college essay should answer the following questions: Why this major? How will this major help you achieve your goals? How will Emory University help you specifically? In terms of organization, addressing these questions, in this order, is straightforward, flows well, and is well-structured.

Step 1: Brainstorm

Brainstorm thoroughly before you start writing your Emory personal statement. Jot down bullet points, record your stream of consciousness, or discuss the Emory essay prompt aloud with a friend. Whatever works best for you. The point is, in order to write a powerful, concise supplemental essay (remember, you only have 200 words!), you need to have a clear focus and already know what you want to say. Do your best to communicate your personal connection to your chosen essay prompts when drafting your short answer responses. Otherwise, you risk rambling. Take time to reflect deeply before you jump into this part of college admissions.

Step 2: Why This Major?

Start your Emory supplement essay by explaining why you are passionate about your prospective major. How did you develop an interest in this subject? When did you encounter or experience this subject for the first time? How will it help you personally and professionally? Why do you believe it is important?

Be as specific and personal as possible. Ideally, you want to tell a story. A good way to begin this essay is to share a short personal anecdote. Remember though, you only have 200 words so be concise. Just because the essay is brief does not mean it cannot be filled with lots of unique, interesting details.

Step 3: Goals and Aspirations

Discuss some of your greater, post-college goals and aspirations in this Emory University supplemental. This might be highly specific (i.e. a detailed career path), or it may be more abstract (such as pursuing a set of values or ideals). The point is to contextualize your course of study. How does your major fit into the world? Why is it important? What do you hope to accomplish by pursuing this major? Use lots of details.

Step 4: Why Emory?

Conclude your essay by discussing how Emory University, specifically, will help you reach your personal, academic, and professional goals. Again, you want to be as specific as possible, so research the university and your major carefully. Mentioning specific courses, resources, and professors by name will help communicate to the admissions officers that you are committed not only to your education, but to Emory University as well. The admissions officers want to create a dynamic campus community. Therefore, they prioritize admitting applicants who are serious about making the most of Emory University’s unique resources.

Step 5: Edit and Proofread

Give yourself enough time to proofread and edit. Ask for feedback on your Emory University application essay from your teachers, peers, guidance counselor, parents, etc. Be confident that your essay is free from grammatical errors.

How to answer the academic interests Emory essay prompts

There are five essay prompts to choose from for the second Emory supplemental essay. Consider each prompt carefully. Your Emory University essays should feel genuine and natural. There are no “right” answers, so don’t get distracted by what you think might sound impressive. The admissions committee wants to get to know you, so always be truthful and genuine.

Although the specific essay prompts change year to year, they are typically centered around something meaningful in your life that has changed you in some way. This could include an experience you’ve had, a personal insight, or a field you’re passionate about.

Emory Essay Prompt 1

Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.

Should you choose this prompt?

Certain areas of the country are much more diverse than others. Only choose this Emory essay prompt if you have real, first-hand experiences of cultural diversity. This is a good prompt to choose if you are an international student, a cultural minority, or grew up in a culturally diverse community. Don’t choose this prompt if you are merely interested in cultural diversity, but do not have any actual, lived experiences to discuss.