How to Answer Interview Questions with a Story

In this article, we will learn how to answer interview questions using a story. We will cover what the interviewer wants to know, examples of story-based interview questions, how to answer these questions with a story, a model for explaining a story, tips for delivering the best answer, and what not to say in your response.

What the interviewer wants to know

When asking story-based questions, the interviewer seeks to know the details about how you qualify for the required role. These questions are similar to other behavioral questions, aiming to make you share examples from your past work experiences.

Examples of story-based interview questions

The interviewer may ask some potential story-based questions, including:

• Tell me about a time you had to terminate an unqualified employee.
• How did you manage to close a deal with a major client?
• Share an example of how you overcame a significant disappointment at work.
• Describe a situation where you used your leadership skills to advance a project.
• Describe how you planned a major event.

How to answer interview questions with a story

You should view each question in the interview as an opportunity to provide clear evidence that you have experience applying critical skills in the workplace. Answering with a story is an excellent way to respond to this type of interview question. Here’s what you need to know about answering with a story:

• Storytelling is the best way to convince employers that you have the power to get the job done. Sharing a real-life example of what you accomplished showcases to the employer what you can do for the organization if hired.
• Good preparation before the interview is essential to provide effective answers to story-based questions. Otherwise, your responses may lack the necessary details to support your claims. If you’re not well-prepared, you may rush your answers or omit crucial details due to nerves. But it doesn’t matter; you can craft better answers in advance and practice storytelling about your work experience. This way, you’ll be more relaxed and confident during the actual interview.
• Start by analyzing the job requirements and prepare a list of your qualifications that match those requirements. Then think about your work, training, academic, and volunteer experiences, identifying scenarios where you used each strength or skill the employer is looking for. This critical information will be needed to craft your answers.
• Build stories that encompass all key features. Describe the situations and actions you took and any positive outcomes that contributed to achieving them. Then practice telling each story out loud. Find a friend or colleague and have them listen to your stories.
• Make sure your stories are concise. Remember, you are telling a short story, not writing a novel. Keep your response brief, including the situation description, how you handled it, and how it was resolved.

Example of explaining a story

For example, you may be asked to describe a time you went above and beyond what was required to get the job done. Here is an example of a response:

I have always been willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, but one particular instance comes to mind. Our team was preparing a major proposal for a potential client. The technology team leader was ill and out of work. I rushed to learn how to create some complex macros in Excel to showcase some key data, and I led the creation of the presentation slides for our pitch.

I had to work several evenings until midnight to get the work done on time while performing my regular duties during the day. Ultimately, the client ended up accepting our proposal and cited the quality of our presentation as a major reason for their choice.

Why this answer works: This response is concise and engaging, describing how the candidate handled a specific situation. Use this example as a basic framework, and of course, adjust it according to your personal experience.

Tips

To Provide the Best Answer

• Share examples. The interviewer wants to hear a story, so give them what they want.
• Make it relevant. The story should be related to the question being asked.
• Show your skills. In addition to telling a relevant story, try to emphasize any qualifications and experiences that may be required for the role.

What Not to Say

• Don’t ramble. Keep your story clear and concise. Don’t make it too long, as the interviewer may get bored.
• Don’t be boring. Pay attention to the interviewer’s body language. If they seem to be losing focus, wrap up your answer.

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Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/anecdotal-interview-questions-2061159