Competency based questions

Competency based questions require candidates to provide examples of how they demonstrated particular skills or attitudes.

Competency based interviews are becoming more commonly used as they are a more effective way to predict a candidates future performance in a role. The interviewer asks specific questions relating to the role, and candidates are required to describe a situation – the actions they took to resolve this, what steps were taken in the process, and what the outcome was of the situation

Competency based interviews are becoming more commonly used as they are a more effective way to predict a candidates future performance in a role. 

Prepare well 

Create a list of competencies that are required for the role you are applying for

List situations in which you have demonstrated each of these competencies, with an action plan and the time it took you to achieve this.

Answer effectively 

Provide a clear, brief description of the situation. Explain how you handled this problem and the steps in which was taken to complete it. Focusing on one specific example allows you be more concise and relevant to the role you are applying for.

Answer competency based questions truthfully by using real life examples. These questions are not designed to trip you up – they are designed to determine the best match between your skills and the jobs you are applying for.

Examples

Below are some examples of competency based questions you will come across:

• Adaptability – Tell us about the biggest change you have had to deal with during your previous roles. How did you handle it?
  Teamwork – Describe a time in which members of your team did not get along. How did you handle the situation?
• Leadership – Tell me about a time you led a group to achieve an objective
• Analysis – Tell me about a time you have identified a new approach  to a problem
• Resilience – Describe a time in which you received negative feedback from an employer, colleague or client. What was the outcome?

For more career advice information, please contact:

Jason Grundy, Country Manager (Middle East)
jason.grundy@robertwalters.com
+971 4 8180 102

Or, find out what your worth using the Robert Walters Salary Survey.