STAR stands for
-
Situation or Task
-
Action
-
Results
This method allows you to answer just about any question even the really hard ones.
The Situation or Task portion is where you set the stage for the rest of your answer. Place
enough information out so the interviewer can understand clearly.
Don't overstate the situation.
In the Actions area you explain the actions that you took directly. If you were part of a team
explain the teams actions and then your action within the team.
The Results area is most important, this is where you give the end results of your actions. Don't
forget to include things you have taken away from the situation. This allows you to turn a positive
into a negative.
1. Describe a situation in which you were able to change the perspective of upper management to
see things your way.
2. Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping
skills.
3. Give me a specific example of a time when you used critical thinking to solve a problem that
your subordinates could not solve.
4. Give me an example of a goal to you set to positively impact the company’s profits and were
able to achieve it.
5. Tell me about a time when you had to use your presentation skills to influence someone's
opinion.
6. Give me a specific example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did
not agree.
7. Please discuss in detail an important business document you were required to complete.
8. Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to “get the
job done”.
9. Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize
your tasks.
10. Give me an example of a time when you had to make a split second decision.
11. What is your typical way of dealing with employee conflict? Give me a detailed example.
12. Tell me about a difficult decision you've made in the last year.
13. Give me an example of a time when you failed at something you tried to accomplish.
14. Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.
15. Tell me about a recent situation in which you had to deal with a very upset customer or co-
worker.
16. Give me an example of a time when you motivated others to excell.
17. Tell me about a time when you delegated a project effectively.
18. Give me an example of a time when you used your fact-finding skills to solve a problem.
19. Tell me about a time when you missed an obvious solution to a problem.
20. Describe a time when you anticipated potential problems and developed preventive measures.
21. Tell me about a time when you were forced to make an unpopular decision.
22. Please tell me about a time you had to fire a friend.
23. Describe a time when you set your sights too high (or too low).
24. How would you describe the pace at which you work?
25. How do you handle stress and pressure?
26. What motivates you?
27. What do you find are the most difficult decisions to make?
28. If the people who know you were asked why you should be hired, what would they say?
29. Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?
30. What type of work environment do you prefer?
31. Describe a difficult work situation / project and how you overcame it.
32. How do you evaluate success?
33. How do you evaluate your success?
34. Why should we hire you?
35. What do you know about this company, and market in general?
36. Why do you want to work for this organization?
37. What challenges are you looking for in a position?
38. What can you contribute to this company?
39. What are your goals for the next five years / ten years?
40. How do you plan to achieve those goals?
