What is behavioral interviewing?

Behavioral interviewing is a technique used to assess a candidate's past experiences to predict their future performance in similar situations. By asking job candidates to describe specific instances where they demonstrated particular skills or competencies, the interviewer can gain insights into how the candidate has handled challenges, solved problems, and interacted with others in a work context. This method allows for a more in-depth understanding of the candidate's behavior and decision-making processes, which are often better indicators of future behavior than theoretical knowledge or generalized responses.

The focus on real past situations helps to eliminate ambiguity and provide a clearer picture of a candidate's qualifications, making it a preferred method for many employers looking for reliable indicators of how a candidate might perform in the role for which they are applying. This approach can also help uncover soft skills and personal attributes that are crucial for success in a particular environment.

In comparison, evaluating theoretical knowledge does not provide insight into how a candidate applies that knowledge in practical scenarios. Conducting an interview without predefined questions may lead to inconsistency and a lack of structure, making it harder to compare candidates objectively. Lastly, using standardized questions for all candidates may limit the depth of responses and miss the opportunity to explore unique experiences that may be relevant to the position.