Here’s another tip from Dick Gaither, the “WIZARD OF WORK:”

Gaither notes that job-seekers are encouraged to give examples — tell stories — when asked behavioral questions in job interviews but that job-seekers need to know more about what kind of information goes into an example, the story, or the picture.

He offers this guide should help job seekers create more powerful interview responses to “example” questions:

Interviewer: “Can you give me an example of when you have _____?”

Proof by Example

Give an example.

• Specify one example of when you’ve used the skill or performed the task the interviewer is questioning you about.

Detail the example (Where and Who Details).

• Where did you work during this example (company name, location, department)?
• Who was your boss during this example (his or her title and name)?
• Who did you supervise during this example (number and types of workers)?
• Who did you collaborate with on this example (names and job titles)?

• Why were you performing this task or using the skill?
• When did you perform the example?

Detail the example (How and What Details).

• What did you do? How did you solve the problem or use the skill? How long did this example take to complete? (Did you use any special tools, machines, or equipment? Did you develop any special ideas, methods, or processes? Did you use any special data or information?)

• What happened during this example? Results should be positive, measurable, and quantifiable.

Think and link your answer to the employer’s needs.

• Define at least two other ways this example shows you can bring added value to the company.

Thanks to: Dick Gaither, Job Search Training Systems, Inc. 941 Constellation Way, Franklin, IN 46131 800-361-1613; Cell: 317-697-2142 Web Site