In today's competitive job market, nailing the interview process goes beyond technical skills. Behavioral interviews allow clients to evaluate not only your technical proficiency but also how you respond to real-world challenges.
What is a Behavioral Interview?
At Turing, clients conduct two main types of interviews: technical and behavioral. While the technical interview assesses your coding abilities, the behavioral interview delves into your approach to problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability, and communication. Clients want to understand your previous work experiences to gauge how well you align with their company culture and values.
Common Behavioral Interview Topics
Behavioral interviews typically cover topics such as:
- Communication and Teamwork: How do you handle difficult clients or team conflicts? Can you influence others effectively?
- Adaptability: How do you respond to change? Tell us about a time when you adjusted to a new system or approach.
- Ethics and Integrity: Describe a time when honesty was difficult. How did you navigate the situation?
- Growth Potential and Leadership: How do you manage priorities under pressure? Have you led a team or taken initiative on projects?
Preparing with the STAR Method
One of the most effective ways to prepare for behavioral interviews is the STAR method. STAR—Situation, Task, Action, and Result—provides a structured format to help you deliver concise and impactful answers. Here’s how it works:
- Situation: Start by setting the context. Describe a relevant situation from your work experience.
- Task: Define your role in the situation. What was your responsibility or the specific challenge?
- Action: Outline the steps you took to address the issue.
- Result: Highlight the outcomes of your actions. Where possible, quantify your success with data.
Take time to prepare several STAR stories from your past experiences to demonstrate your problem-solving skills, resilience, and adaptability.
Crafting an Elevator Pitch
The question “Tell me about yourself” often opens an interview. To make a memorable first impression, develop a brief elevator pitch:
- Who You Are: Share your professional background and what brings you to Turing.
- What Sets You Apart: Mention key skills and experiences relevant to the position.
- Why You’re Excited About This Opportunity: Express your interest in the role and the client’s company.
Smart Questions to Ask the Interviewer
Behavioral interviews aren’t one-sided. Asking insightful questions at the end of the interview not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you. Here are some ideas:
- What qualities do your best employees have in common?
- How would you describe the company culture?
- What are the company’s goals for the next five years?
These questions encourage open-ended answers, giving you a clearer picture of the company’s values and direction.
Remote Interview Tips for Success
Since interviews at Turing are conducted remotely, setting up the right environment is crucial. Here are some key tips:
- Quiet, Distraction-Free Space: Ensure you’re in a quiet area where you can focus.
- Stable Internet Connection: Test your connection and have a backup if possible.
- Desktop or Laptop Only: Mobile devices are not permitted for behavioral interviews. Make sure your webcam and microphone are working.
- Troubleshooting Tips: Disable any VPNs, ad blockers, or extensions that may interfere with connectivity. Clear your cache and avoid incognito mode for a seamless experience.
Owning the Interview Process: Best Practices
Taking ownership of the interview process involves thorough preparation and a professional approach. Here are some best practices:
- Research the Client: Look up the client on LinkedIn or their website to understand their values and goals.
- Highlight Alignment: Explain how your experience and values align with the client’s needs.
- Express Gratitude: End the interview by thanking the interviewer and following up with a courteous email. This shows professionalism and reinforces your interest.
Next Steps: Making a Lasting Impression
After the interview, consider sending a follow-up email to thank the interviewer and restate your enthusiasm for the position. This reinforces your professionalism and keeps you on the client’s radar as they make their decision. Remember, every interaction leaves an impression, so make each one count!
Behavioral interviews are a powerful way to demonstrate your skills and cultural fit to potential clients. By following these strategies and preparing thoughtful responses, you’ll be well-positioned to ace your Turing interview and move one step closer to landing your ideal role.