Preparing for an interview can be daunting, even if you’re confident you have the qualifications for the role. One technique healthcare systems use to screen nurses and other professionals is behavioral interview questions. Understanding why these questions are asked and how to answer them effectively can set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job.
What Are Behavioral Interview Questions
Behavioral interview questions are designed to elicit specific examples from your past experiences. They might start with phrases such as:
- “Give me an example of…”
- “Tell me about a time when…”
- “Describe a situation where…”
The idea behind these questions is that past behavior is a strong predictor of future performance. Employers want to understand how you’ve handled various situations in the workplace to gauge your skills, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Why Are Behavioral Interview Questions Asked?
- Predicting Performance: Behavioral questions can provide insights into how candidates are likely to perform in similar situations in the future. Employers seek real-world evidence of skills rather than theoretical knowledge.
- Assessing Soft Skills: In nursing, many essential qualities, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, can be difficult to evaluate through traditional questioning. Behavioral questions allow employers to see how you apply these skills in practice.
- Understanding Cultural Fit: Employers want to know if you align with their healthcare system’s values and culture. Your responses can reveal how well you will integrate into their team and contribute to their workplace environment.
How to Answer Behavioral Interview Questions
Use the STAR Method
One effective way to structure your answers is the STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Here’s how to use it:
- Situation: Set the context by describing the specific scenario you faced.
- Task: Explain the task you were responsible for in that situation.
- Action: Detail the actions you took to address the task or problem. Focus on your specific contributions.
- Result: Share the outcome of your actions. Highlight what you achieved and what you learned from the experience.
Be Honest and Specific
When answering behavioral questions, be genuine about your experiences. Avoid embellishing or providing vague responses. Specific examples not only make your answers more relatable but also demonstrate your ability to reflect on and grow from experiences.
Practice Behavioral Interview Questions in Advance
Familiarize yourself with common behavioral questions related to the role you’re applying for. Consider having a practice interview with a friend or family member. Some examples include:
- “Tell me about a time you faced a significant challenge at work.”
- “Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult colleague.”
- “Give an example of a time you demonstrated leadership.”
Reflect on Your Experiences
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your past roles and accomplishments. Identify key experiences that showcase your skills and apply the STAR method to them.
Interviewing for a new role can be exciting, but first, you have to find the right employment opportunity. If you’re an NNP seeking a new job, turn to Ensearch for help. Not only can we find opportunities that fit your criteria, we will also help you perfect your resume and prepare for interviews so you can land your dream job. Get started with our free Resume Guide or Phone Interview Checklist today.
