The STAR method is an organised approach to answering behavioural interview questions. It helps you provide clear and comprehensive responses by breaking down your experiences into four components: Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

• Situation
  • For any behavioural interview question, you could start by providing a brief overview of the situation or context in which a particular experience occurred. You could describe the background setting and any challenges or issues you faced. You should be concise but provide enough information to give the interviewer a clear understanding of the circumstances.
  • Example: “In my previous role as a project manager, we were assigned a major client project with a tight deadline and a limited budget. The project involved developing a customised software solution for their business operations.”
• Task
  • Next, you could explain the specific task or goal you needed to accomplish within that situation. You can describe what was expected of you or what you set out to achieve. This would help the interviewer understand your responsibilities and the objectives you were working towards.
  • Example: “My task was to lead a cross-functional team of developers, designers, and analysts to successfully deliver the software solution within the given timeframe and budget constraints. The client had specific requirements and expected seamless integration with their existing systems.”
• Action
  • You could outline the actions you took to address the situation and accomplish the task at hand. You may describe the steps you followed, the skills or techniques you utilised, and the decisions you made. You should focus on your individual contributions and emphasise your problem-solving abilities and relevant competencies.
  • Example: “To ensure successful project execution, I initiated regular team meetings to discuss progress, address any challenges, and make necessary adjustments. I conducted a thorough analysis of the client’s requirements and collaborated closely with the team to design a comprehensive solution. I also implemented an agile development methodology to ensure efficient progress tracking and timely delivery. Additionally, I established clear communication channels with the client, providing regular updates and soliciting feedback to ensure their satisfaction throughout the development process.”
• Result
  • It’s important to share the positive results and outcomes of your actions. You should highlight the impact of your efforts, your achievements and any quantifiable or qualitative results. You could discuss the lessons learnt or improvements gained from the experience.

  • Example: “As a result of our efforts, we successfully delivered the software solution to the client two weeks ahead of schedule and within the allocated budget. The client reported a significant increase in efficiency and productivity, with the new system streamlining their operations and reducing manual work by 30%. The project’s success led to an extension of our contract with the client and earned positive feedback, further solidifying our reputation in the industry.”

By using the STAR method, you provide a structured and comprehensive response that demonstrates your abilities, problem-solving skills, and achievements in a clear and coordinated manner.

Example question: