What defines a behavioral interview?

A behavioral interview is characterized by the technique of gathering specific past performance examples from applicants. This method is based on the premise that past behavior is a strong predictor of future performance. During the interview, candidates are asked to provide concrete examples of how they have handled situations or challenges in previous roles. This not only helps the interviewer assess the candidate's skills and competencies but also provides insight into their thought process, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills.

This focus on past experiences differentiates behavioral interviews from other types of interviews, which may emphasize hypothetical situations or assess potential future performance without concrete evidence from the candidate's history. By requiring candidates to describe actual situations they've encountered, hiring managers can more accurately determine how candidates might react in similar circumstances in the future.