How to prep for tech interview behavioral questions

In a tech interview, the “behavioral” interview questions can be just as important as the technical questions that are asked. You could do well on the technical questions and coding challenges, but fail the interview based on behavioral questions alone.

As ChatGPT says: “Behavioral interview questions are designed to assess how you've handled specific situations in the past, as they believe past behavior is a good predictor of future performance.“

Quick Tips for Tech Interview “Behavioral” Questions:

• Actually write down your experiences somewhere: That helps you to better recall them, prevent rambling, and to better derive the value in them (assign them positive signals that an interviewer would like to see).


• Use the S.T.A.R. method: Situation, Task, Action, and Result — this can help make your experiences clearer, and specifically make sure to focus on YOUR actions taken (not the team), and sharing clear results (effect on the business).




• Reflect on Past Experiences: Take some time to reflect on your past experiences, both in your professional and personal life, where you encountered challenges, worked in teams, or achieved notable successes. Jot down key points or stories that demonstrate your skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork.


• Practice the S.T.A.R. Method: Familiarize yourself with the S.T.A.R. method and practice structuring your responses using this framework. When responding to behavioral questions, clearly outline the Situation you were in, the Task or challenge you faced, the Action you took to address it, and the Result or outcome of your actions. This structured approach will help you convey your experiences effectively and impress the interviewer.


• Mock Interviews: Consider conducting mock interviews with friends, family members, or mentors. Practice answering common behavioral questions and receive feedback on your responses. This will help you identify areas for improvement and gain confidence in articulating your experiences during the actual interview.


• Research the Company: Before your interview, research the company and its culture. Tailor your responses to align with the company's values and objectives. Show genuine interest in the role and organization by incorporating relevant examples and insights into your answers.


• Stay Calm and Confident: During the interview, remain calm and composed. Listen carefully to the questions and take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. Speak confidently and succinctly, focusing on highlighting your strengths and accomplishments.

By following these tips and strategies, you can effectively prepare for behavioral questions in tech interviews and increase your chances of success.

Remember to approach each question thoughtfully, showcase your experiences and skills, and demonstrate why you're the perfect fit for the role.