The STAR method is an interview technique used to gather all the relevant information about a specific capability that the job requires. It is a structured manner of responding to a behavioral-based interview question by discussing the specific situation, task, action, and result of the situation. The STAR method is an acronym that stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Here is a breakdown of each component of the STAR method:
- Situation: Set the scene and give the necessary details of your example.
- Task: Describe what your responsibility was in that situation.
- Action: Explain exactly what steps you took to address it.
- Result: Share what outcomes your actions achieved.
The STAR method can be used to answer behavioral interview questions or any other kinds of questions where you need to tell a story. It is a useful acronym and an effective formula for structuring your behavioral interview response. To use the STAR method, you should prepare what stories you might tell ahead of time and be specific, giving a detailed accounting of one event.
The STAR method is similar to the SOARA technique (Situation, Objective, Action, Result, Aftermath), and it is often complemented with an additional R on the end STARR or STAR(R) with the last R resembling reflection. The additional R helps the interviewer to understand what the interviewee learned from the experience and how they would assimilate experiences.
In summary, the STAR method is an interview technique that helps job seekers to provide a real-life example of how they handled a certain kind of situation in the past by laying out the Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
