Career Zone EN
STARR(E) method
It’s helpful to use STARR(E) method during job interviews when answering a question. You'll especially find this helpful when providing an example for a question about competencies, for example.
The underlying idea behind these competency questions is that past behaviour predicts future behaviour. An example then demonstrates how you handled a specific situation and what you learned from it. Using the STARR method, you can clearly and concisely describe past experiences (both academic and work). This results in a short and concise narrative.
Sample questions you might be asked where you can use the STARR method:
- Can you give an example of a situation where you were put under significant pressure?
- Have you ever had someone (a customer or colleague) get angry with you? How did you handle it?
- Can you describe a situation where you showed initiative and took charge?
The basis of STARR:
- S: What was the situation?
Take for example your internship, a project or travelling you have done that you are proud of.
- T: What was your task?
What was your role within the internship or project? What were your responsibilities? Regarding travelling, did you travel alone and do everything yourself, or were you with a group and did you also have a specific role / responsibility?
- A: What actions did you take, what did you literally do?
How did you perform your role? For example, you were responsible for setting up a research project. Activities included: discussing past research with others, setting up a database format in SPSS, defining the target group, and developing and sending a questionnaire to the target group.
- R: What was the result, what happened?
What were the outcomes of the research you conducted? What was your travel experience like, or how did the project end, for example?
- R or E: What did you learn (reflection / evaluation)?
If you were to do that internship, project or travelling again, what would you do the same and what would you do differently?
Watch the video below to learn more about the STARR method:
Tips
- Don’t dwell on the situation for too long. What matters most is the action you took, the results, and what you learned from it!
- Practice your answers using the STARR question method, based on the job requirements and competencies listed in the vacancy.
- Use the first person when giving an example of teamwork. Employers appreciate hearing about your input!
