I can’t tell you how many times I’ve stumbled in a job interview because I either forgot what I was trying to say or lost focus, especially when faced with open-ended questions. It’s easy to ramble and go off on tangents. If you’re neurodivergent, like me, interviews can feel especially tricky since they rely heavily on memory and quick thinking.
One thing I’ve learned, though, is that most interview questions are designed to uncover how you approach tasks and solve problems – they’re not out to trip you up. The key is providing clear evidence of your skills, and that’s where the STAR method comes in. It’s a simple technique that helps you stay on track and give answers that make sense.
What is the STAR Method?
The STAR method stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It’s a structured way of responding to competency-based interview questions, helping you tell a story that highlights your skills and problem-solving abilities. Let’s break it down:
- Situation – Set the scene. Briefly describe the context or challenge you faced. Example: “I was working as a receptionist in a busy hotel during peak season.”
- Task – Explain your responsibility in the situation. Example: “A guest arrived earlier than expected, but their room wasn’t ready, and they were visibly upset.”
- Action – Detail the specific steps you took to handle the situation. Example: “I apologised to the guest, offered them a complimentary drink, and worked with the housekeeping team to expedite the room cleaning.”
- Result – Share the outcome. How did your actions make a difference? Example: “The guest was pleased with the swift response and later left a positive review about their stay.”
Why Does the STAR Method Work?
The STAR method is particularly useful because it helps organise your thoughts, making sure you deliver clear and focused answers. Instead of freezing or going off on a tangent, you have a framework that keeps you on track. For neurodivergent candidates, this structure can reduce the pressure that comes with thinking on your feet and remembering specific examples in the moment.
Benefits of Using STAR
- Shows Specific Skills: Employers want to see how you’ve used your skills in real situations. STAR gives you a clear way to highlight exactly what you’ve done and how you’ve handled challenges.
- Keeps You Focused: It’s easy to go off course during an interview. STAR keeps your answers concise and relevant, helping you stay focused on the key points.
- Demonstrates Problem-Solving: Employers often look for candidates with strong problem-solving skills. STAR allows you to showcase how you approach and solve problems under pressure.
- Boosts Confidence: Practising the STAR method helps you feel more prepared for interviews, reducing anxiety and helping you deliver answers more confidently.
Why It’s Especially Useful for Neurodivergent Candidates
Interviewing can feel like a minefield when you struggle with memory, focus, or executive functioning. For neurodivergent individuals, the STAR method provides a much-needed anchor, giving you the tools to structure your answers and present your best self. It simplifies what can be a daunting process, allowing you to communicate clearly without feeling overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
The STAR method is a game-changer for interviews, and works when applying for any industry. By breaking your experiences down into manageable steps, you can deliver responses that demonstrate your skills in a way that resonates with employers.
Next time you’re prepping for an interview, give the STAR method a try – it might just make all the difference in how you approach those tricky questions!