Behavioral questions, as they are called, refer to questions that attempt to determine whether you have the skills and experience to do the job. The assumption built into behavioral questions is that past behavior is a predictor of future performance; i.e. if you have done it before you can do it again. It is easy to tell when you are being asked a behavioral question. They usually start in one of two ways:
- Give me an example of…
- Tell me about a time when you…
Identifying which behavioral questions you might face in an interview is easier to determine than you might think. There are two good sources to refer to. First, look at the job posting. Every bullet point that either talks about the duties/responsibilities in that job or the requirements/qualifications for that position can easily be turned into potential interview questions. For example, the following information is taken from a job posting for an Entry Level Financial Analyst. If you begin each bullet point below with, “Tell me about a time when you…” you will turn the bullets into potential interview questions.
Responsibilities
- Verify the accuracy of financial reporting and interpreting results
- Identify and analyze potential variances to budget and forecast
- Special / AD HOC projects as requested
- Assist in periodic financial forecasting
- Actively participate in the planning and budgeting process
- Examine budget submissions for completeness, accuracy and conformance with company procedures
- Function as a liaison with other corporate departments
- Monitor corporate costs as they affect the consulting practice
- Prepare and distribute select management reports on a monthly basis
- Assist in monthly accounting close
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance or related major
- Excellent analytical, organizational and communication skills
- Proven experience working on several projects simultaneously
- Demonstrable understanding of financial statements
- Familiarity with Microsoft applications including advanced proficiency with Excel
- Ability to meet required deadlines and timelines during peak times of the year
Secondly, refer to the 12 characteristics employers identified in the 2008 NACE survey as well. Each of these can easily be turned into a potential interview question.
- Communication skills
- Strong work ethic
- Teamwork skills (works well with others)
- Initiative
- Interpersonal skills (relates well to others)
- Problem-solving skills
- Analytical skills
- Flexibility/adaptability
- Computer skills
- Technical skills
- Detail-oriented
- Organizational skills
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