Behavioral interviewing
Behavioral interviewing is a relatively new style of interviewing that was developed in the 1970's by industrial psychologists. Behavioral interviewing asserts that "the most accurate predictor of future performance is past performance in a similar situation."
The employer structures very pointed questions to elicit detailed responses aimed at determining if the candidate possesses the desired characteristics. Questions (often not even framed as a question) typically start out: "Tell about a time..." or "Describe a situation..."
As a candidate, you should be equipped to answer the questions thoroughly. In the interview, your response needs to be specific and detailed. Candidates who tell the interviewer about particular situations that relate to each question will be far more effective and successful than those who respond in general terms. (List of behavioral interviewing questions)
One strategy for preparing for behavioral interviews is to use the STAR TECHNIQUE. (This technique is often referred to as the SAR and PAR techniques as well.) Ideally, you should briefly describe the situation, what specific action you took to have an effect on the situation, and the positive result or outcome.
1. Situation (or Task, Problem) 2. Action, 3. Result/outcome
Be sure not to memorize answers; the key to interviewing success is simply being prepared for the questions and having a mental outline to follow in responding to each question.