Comments on: Two Simple Rules of The Behavioral Interview

By: Candidate Qualities Important to Hiring Managers - craresources

Candidate Qualities Important to Hiring Managers - craresources — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 13:31:54 +0000

[…] isn’t equal to explaining how you have handled a previous situation. Therefore, engage the behavioral method of interviewing to clearly describe real situations that highlight your critical thinking and […]

By: Angela

Angela — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 20:38:58 +0000

Helen, you do raise a good point. If you haven’t encountered the situation they are asking you to describe, you should absolutely be honest that you haven’t had the experience.

I would recommend, if possible, you substitute the answer. For example, if an interviewer asks you to describe a time where you have dealt with a difficult investigator, and you have never had that experience, state you haven’t dealt with difficult investigators in the past, but have dealt with a difficult coordinator (patient, co-worker, boss, etc). And then describe that situation.

Think about what the interviewer is looking for – your ability to handle conflict? your ability to handle time management? your ability to communicate effectively? your ability to motivate your team? etc.

Helen, thank you so much for your insight!

Ang

By: Helen

Helen — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:05:51 +0000

There’s nothing wrong with beginning a statement such as “that’s a situation I’ve fortunately not encountered, however…” because even after 18 years in the industry, there are things/situations I’ve not experienced. Most, for example, have thankfully NOT encountered a potentially fraudulent situation, and that’s a question I’ve been asked numerous times. Unfortunately, I do have an example for that particular situation, but I’m also thankful that it’s the exception, not the rule.
So, while I agree that you shouldn’t open with, “I would.wouldn’t…” be honest and tell them you’ve not encountered it, but should you, these are the steps I would take…