SOU CG 2024-24 DM Accessible - Flipbook - Page 26
STAR Method Answers
The STAR Method is a tried-and-true formula
for behavioral interview questions. If you
keep STAR in mind, you will be able to craft
strong examples that demonstrate your skills
while telling a compelling narrative.
S
Situation
Explain the context of your example. Where were you? Who
were you with, and what were you doing? Make sure you
describe the relevant details of the situation and avoid jargon.
If your interviewer has to ask clarifying questions, it will distract
from the information you are trying to convey.
Example: “When I was a host at X restaurant, I was responsible
for seating patrons, managing server workload, and ensuring that
the guest experience ran smoothly. Mondays are typically fairly
slow at the restaurant, with only two servers scheduled.”
T
Task
Identify the task you needed to complete. Did you have to
solve a problem? Were you working toward a particular goal? If
you think of your example as a story, the task is the conflict that
sets the plot in motion.
Example: “One Monday, we suddenly received six walk-in parties
at the same time—too many guests for two servers to handle at
once.”
26
S O U C A R E E R CO N N E C T I O N S - C A R E E R S . S O U . E D U
A
Action
How did you take action to complete the task or resolve the
issue? Highlight your transferrable skills and make sure that
you fully address the interviewer’s question.
Example: “Since the servers would not be able to greet all of their
new tables in a timely manner, I took the initiative to talk to some
of the guests myself. I used my customer service experience to
greet them warmly, walk them through the menu, and take drink
orders, which I then conveyed to the server.”
R
Result
What happened as a result of your actions? Be as specific as
possible, and provide data if available. You can also discuss
what you learned from the experience.
Example: “Every customer was greeted in a timely manner and
able to start their order as soon as possible. The unexpected
tables were turned in time for the next seating, without the servers
getting overwhelmed or the patrons feeling slighted. All the guests
had a great experience.”
Practice your STAR method examples before an interview. As
you prepare, you can develop a set of strong anecdotes that
answer common questions. Make sure your examples:
■
showcase your skills
■
are relevant to the position
■
are true (do NOT fabricate or exaggerate)
