Competency Based Interview Questions

Many companies now employ a method of interviewing called Competency or Behavioral Based Interviewing. Using this method they will start the interview by asking you to talk about your background. They will then ask you some questions that will require you to give examples from your past. We have included a list of questions below that are representative of the types of questions they may ask. The key to answering these questions is to be as specific as possible and to bring examples out from your past. If you cannot think of an example ask them to rephrase the question.

We also encourage you, as the candidate, to ask as many questions as possible. This should be a give and take conversation.

Sample competency based interview questions:

• Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.
• Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
• Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.
• Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree.
• Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.
• Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize your tasks.
• What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
• Tell me about a time you were able to successfully deal with another person even when that individual may not have personally liked you (or vice versa).
• Tell me about a difficult decision you've made in the last year.
• Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.
• Tell me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-worker.
• Give me an example of a time when you used your fact-finding skills to solve a problem.
• Describe a time when you set your sights too high (or too low).