Behavioural interview questions seek to uncover how jobseekers manage real-world situations. By exploring common questions and learning how to apply the STAR method, candidates can prepare effective, structured responses for their next interview.
Such questions, which typically start with “Tell me about a time when…”, give employers insight into how candidates have handled real-life situations.
“These questions help assess key competencies such as problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability and leadership, which are critical in high-pressure, detail-oriented roles,” she says.
“Focus on results and be honest, clear and direct in your responses,” he advises.
What is the STAR method when interviewing?
One proven way to answer behavioural interview questions is with the STAR method. This technique presents a straightforward format for telling a story, laying out the situation, task, action and result:
Situation: Briefly describe the context or situation.
Task: Outline the specific responsibility or challenge.
Action: Detail the steps taken to address the task.
Result: Share the outcome, emphasising measurable or positive results.
The STAR method helps candidates avoid rambling or missing critical details and allows interviewers to easily follow and evaluate the response, Edwards says.
“This method allows candidates to tell a story, which lets a potential employer see more of their personality,” she adds.
“When we recall a situation through storytelling, the emotions that were felt at the time also tend to come through, revealing more about a person than a rehearsed answer.”
Common behavioural interview questions
Here, Edwards and Rogers share five common behavioural interview questions and offer tips for answering them using the STAR method.
Question 1: Can you tell me about a time you identified an error in financial data and how you handled it?
Purpose: To assess attention to detail, analytical skills and accountability.
Preparation tip: Choose an example where your diligence prevented a potential financial or reputational risk.
Sample answer:
Situation: While reviewing quarterly reports, I noticed a discrepancy in the expense figures.
Task: My responsibility was to identify the root cause.
Action: I cross-referenced financial records, discovered a duplicate entry and corrected it.
Result: This avoided a A$50,000 misstatement in financial reporting and earned recognition from senior management.
Question 2: Can you describe a time when you had to work under tight deadlines to deliver financial reports?
Purpose: To evaluate time management, prioritisation and the ability to work under pressure.
Preparation tip: Focus on a scenario that highlights both efficiency and accuracy.
Sample answer:
Situation: During the end-of-year reporting cycle, an unexpected audit request required urgent preparation of additional documents.
Task: I was responsible for collating and verifying financial data within 48 hours.
Action: I prioritised critical documents, delegated tasks effectively and worked extended hours.
Result: The audit proceeded without delays and our team received positive feedback for preparedness.
Upskill
Learn more about CPA Australia’s “A practical guide to preparing for an interview” course here.
Question 3: Can you tell me about a time you worked with a difficult team member?
Purpose: To understand conflict resolution, emotional intelligence and teamwork.
Preparation tip: Share an example where you maintained professionalism and achieved a positive outcome.
Sample answer:
Situation: A colleague was consistently missing deadlines, affecting our month-end close process.
Task: I needed to address the issue without escalating tensions.
Action: I scheduled a one-on-one meeting, expressed my concerns respectfully and offered support to manage their workload.
Result: They appreciated the conversation, improved their time management, and we successfully met our deadlines.
Question 4: Can you share an example when you had to explain financial information to a non-financial stakeholder?
Purpose: To assess communication and the ability to simplify complex financial data.
Preparation tip: Highlight clarity, patience and adaptability in your response.
Sample answer:
Situation: I had to present quarterly financial results to a board consisting of non-financial executives.
Task: My role was to ensure they understood the implications of key financial trends.
Action: I prepared a simplified presentation with visual aids and avoided jargon.
Result: The board members engaged actively and made informed strategic decisions based on my presentation.
Question 5: Can you tell me about a time you improved a process?
Purpose: To measure problem-solving and process optimisation.
Preparation tip: Talk about how you improved efficiency.
Sample answer:
Situation: In my previous role, our month-end closing process was taking longer than expected, primarily due to a reliance on manual data entry.
Task: I was tasked with finding a way to streamline the process.
Action: I proposed and implemented an automated solution.
Result: The month-end closing time was reduced by 30 per cent and errors decreased significantly, improving overall efficiency and accuracy.
