#185: What Employers Seek When They Ask Behavioral Questions

Your answers to these questions should demonstrate your personal qualities and illustrate those "soft skills" often relentlessly claimed on resumes.

Behavioral interview questions typically focus on common problems faced at work. Employers are looking for examples that you have demonstrated key soft skills like these:

  • Problem-solving, initiative, judgement

  • Handling stress, resilience, adaptability

  • Analytical skills, creativity

  • Persuasiveness, negotiation

  • Attention to detail, planning and organizing

  • Integrity, reliability, motivation

  • Team building, leadership, management

To be well-prepared, think about situations where you had to put these abilities into action, and make sure they are listed on your interview checklist. Your “stories” about these experiences can provide concrete answers to behavioral interview questions.