So far 2024 has seen a huge number of layoffs already with Microsoft laying off 1,900, eBay cutting 1,000 and the entire Frontdesk staff getting laid off in a 2 minute Zoom call. In what is clearly a difficult and competitive job market, if you wish to stay competitive yourself and land an internship amidst the current environment, then the first step is to nail the basics. This doesn’t get any more basic then using the STAR technique.
What is the STAR Technique?
The STAR technique is a structured method for answering behavioural interview questions by providing specific examples from your past experiences. STAR stands for:
Situation: Set the scene by describing the context or background of a particular challenge, projector experience.
Task: Outline the specific task or goal you were assigned within that situation.
Action: Detail the actions you took to address the challenge or accomplish the task.
Result: Conclude by sharing the positive outcomes or results of your actions. Make these very specific to the results you contributed in to really show off your skills.
Why Use the STAR Technique?
The STAR technique is highly effective for several reasons:
- Structured Responses: It provides a structured framework for organizing your thoughts and delivering well-rounded responses.
- Demonstrates Skills: It allows you to showcase your skills and competencies through real-life examples.
- Contextual Understanding: It helps interviewers understand how you approach challenges and contribute to positive outcomes.
- Memorable Stories: It makes your responses more memorable, helping you stand out among other candidates.
Example of Using STAR Technique:
Question: Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you faced at work and how you handled it?
Situation: While leading a cross-functional team to launch a new product, we encountered unexpected delays due to supply chain issues.
Task: My task was to identify the root cause of the delays, develop a mitigation plan, and ensure the product launch stayed on schedule.
Action: I immediately convened a meeting with the relevant departments to assess the situation. After identifying the supply chain bottleneck, I collaborated with the procurement team to secure alternative suppliers and expedite deliveries. Simultaneously, I communicated transparently with the team about the changes and provided additional support where needed.
Result: Through these actions, we were able to minimise the delays, and the product launched only two days behind schedule. Additionally, the alternative suppliers provided cost savings of 15%, demonstrating the success of our contingency plan.
Conclusion
So if you are looking to bag a good internship this year, you need to make sure you get to grips with some interview and CV basics and it doesn’t get any more basic than the STAR method. Mastering this technique is a valuable skill that can significantly improve how you come across in interviews.
By showcasing your abilities through real-world examples, you not only answer questions effectively but structure appropriately and leave little opportunity for any waffling. So next internship interview you go in for, always remember STAR!
