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Behavioral Based Interview Questions and Answers

What is Behavioral Based Interviewing?

Northeast Utilities uses an interview process known as Competency-Based or Behavioral-Based Interviewing. This approach is based on the premise that past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior. Questions asked in the interview will target education, technical skills, and competency characteristics particular to a specific job. The questions will prompt you to describe actual behavior (what you did) in a past similar situation. When responding to questions, you should be able to give an example of a particular event or situation that occurred in the past, the action you took in response to the situation, and what happened as a result of the action you took.

How will the interview be conducted?

Typically, you will be interviewed by a Selection Panel of two or more individuals. The Panel normally consists of the Hiring Supervisor or Manager, and one or two other individuals who are familiar with the requirements of the position. One or more members of the Panel will ask you questions. The purpose of the questions is not to “interrogate” you, but to learn about some of the many job-related experiences you have had. It sometimes takes time to think of answers to the questions. You will be given an opportunity to answer each question and you will be evaluated on the quality rather than the speed of your response. Although you may know someone on the Panel who is familiar with your work, it is important to answer questions in enough detail so that all panel members understand the experiences you are describing. While you are answering the questions, one or more members of the Panel will be taking notes.

What will the interview cover?

The interviewers will use an Interview Guide to ask questions specific to competency characteristics for everyone who is interviewed for the position. The questions will cover your past work responsibilities and past experiences in skill areas related to the job. Some typical questions are:

Tell me about a time when you had to take the lead on a project. How did you handle this?
Think of a time when you saw a problem before anyone else. How did you identify the problem?
Talk about the last difficult decision you had to make. Why was it difficult?
Describe a time you had to coach a co-worker. What did you do?

How can I prepare for the interview?

You can prepare for the interview by thinking back over your career, concentrating on projects and initiatives, your successes and even what you have learned from past mistakes. Be prepared to talk about yourself and the unique role you played in your work unit. Don’t be shy about describing your strengths and also be prepared to show some insight into your development needs.

What happens after the interview?

After you leave the interview, the Selection Panel will evaluate your interview answers against the job requirements. Once all interviews for the position are completed, the Panel will make the selection decision. You may do very well in the interview and still not be considered as a finalist because there may be a number of other candidates who either did better in the interview process or who have attributes and skills that better suit the needs of the hiring manager. You can always check the status of your application by signing into the Northeast Utilities Career Opportunities website at http://www.nu.com with your E-mail Address or User ID and Password.

Best Wishes in your Career Search.