Job interviews (especially for government positions), often require candidates to answer behavioural questions using a structured format known as the STAR technique.
This method can help you clearly and effectively demonstrate your skills and experiences by providing a clear framework for your answers.
Behavioural questions are designed to assess how you’ve handled specific situations in the past, as this is often a strong indicator of how you’ll perform in the future.
These questions typically start with phrases like:
“Tell me about a time when…”
“Talk me through how you…”
“Give an example of a situation where…”
In many government interviews, answering behavioural questions using the STAR method is not just recommended—it’s often expected.
Here’s how to master this approach.
What is the STAR Technique?
The STAR technique is a structured method for answering behavioural questions. It ensures your answers are clear, concise, and focused on the key points the interviewer is looking for.
Situation: Start by describing the context. Provide a brief overview of the situation or challenge you faced.
Task: Explain the specific task or responsibility you had in that scenario.
Action: Detail the actions you took to address the situation. Focus on what you did, even if it was a team effort.
Result: Conclude with the outcome. Highlight what you achieved, learned, or how you resolved the problem.
Why Government Interviews Require STAR
Government roles often involve structured and competency-based interviews to ensure fairness and transparency. Using the STAR technique allows you to provide evidence-based examples that align with the key selection criteria for the role. It also demonstrates your ability to communicate clearly and logically.
Example Answer Using STAR
Question: Tell me about a time when you had to manage a challenging project with limited resources.
Answer:
Situation: In my previous role, I was assigned to lead a community outreach project with a tight budget and limited staff.
Task: My goal was to increase participation in the program by 20% within three months.
Action: I prioritised cost-effective strategies, such as leveraging social media for advertising and collaborating with local volunteers. I also developed a detailed project plan to ensure efficient use of resources and held weekly check-ins to monitor progress.
Result: By the end of the three months, participation increased by 25%, and we came in under budget. The project was recognised as a success and used as a model for future initiatives.
How to Prepare for STAR-Based Questions
Review the Job Description and Job Advertisement: Identify the key competencies required for the role and think of examples from your experience that demonstrate these skills.
Prepare Examples: Reflect on situations where you solved problems, achieved goals, or faced challenges. Make sure your examples are relevant to the role you’re applying for.
Practice the STAR Format: Write out your examples using the STAR framework. Practice saying them out loud to ensure your answers flow naturally.
Be Specific: Avoid vague or general responses. Provide concrete details to make your examples compelling and memorable.
Stay Concise: While it’s important to provide enough detail, keep your answers focused and avoid unnecessary tangents.
Common Behavioural Questions in Government Interviews
“Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult stakeholder.”
“Describe a situation where you improved a process.”
“Give an example of a time when you worked as part of a team to achieve a goal.”
“Talk me through how you handled a high-pressure situation.”
Final Tips for Success
Be Honest: Don’t make up stories. Interviewers can often tell when answers lack authenticity.
Stay Relevant: Tailor your examples to the specific role and selection criteria.
Focus on Outcomes: Highlight the results of your actions and any lessons learned.
Conclusion
Mastering the STAR technique is essential for answering behavioural questions, particularly in government interviews. It allows you to showcase your problem-solving abilities, achievements, and personal growth in a structured and compelling way. By preparing ahead of time and practicing your examples, you can confidently navigate these questions and leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.