In the job search process, the job interview is certainly one of the most complex and decisive moments. Any help we can apply to this task is always very welcomed. The STAR method can be a useful tool in this matter.
It should be considered that the most important point in a job interview is to come well prepared, as calm and relaxed as possible, and to try to be as unemotional as possible in our reactions. This means that there is no magic method, but STAR can help you to focus on the type of interview you should undertake.
What is the STAR method?
This is a method that tries to rationalize our answer model to the most common, and most complicated questions in job interviews.
Therefore, if you are in the process of looking for a job, you should at least know what it is and how it works.
The name of this method is given by the initials of four concepts:
- Situation
- Task
- Actions
- Results
Although we will see how to use the method, later on, we can already guess that its operation is based on summarizing the answers according to the script that these initials generate.
This is possible with almost any type of question, but it is especially relevant when the questions are related to your professional activities. Also with questions that evaluate how you react to certain situations or in particular circumstances.
It is in this type of questions that the method is most useful. Let’s look at a practical example:
How to apply the STAR method
This method aims to have a double effect. On the one hand, to offer a clear, concise, and as close to reality as possible. On the other hand, to provide the employer with a confident, value-added image of your question.
This leads us to how to make use of the method, i.e. questions on past work performance:
Situation
This is about generating the context in which we have performed a task, or that a challenge or successful action has taken place. It should not be too long and should mention the where, when, and how.
Task
The task will usually be a quick description of the competences you have developed to solve this problem or to carry out your job duties. It is not time to expand on it, just a clear and concrete definition.
Actions
Out of the four STAR points, this is probably the one where you can emphasize your response the most, but without being too fussy. Explain how you have approached your professional tasks or the challenges you have been faced with.
When asked questions about complex situations you have faced, it is important to be very schematic in your answer, but at the same time, to be clear and showcase your abilities.
Results
This would be the conclusion of the feedback. It should confirm the positive resolution of the problem or professional performance at its conclusion. In this last option, a letter of recommendation (if you have one) that directly supports the reference from your previous jobs, can be a good way to round off the final part of the interview.