START METHOD
The START method is especially useful with behavioral based questions which call for specific experiences by asking, “Tell me about a time,” or “Give me an example of.”
Prepare and share evidence that you can do the job and will be a good fit for the organization.
- Describe specific experiences with details showing how skills were developed.
- Include transferable skills all employers look for Transferable skills section.
- Build examples using the START method.
START stands for:
Situation: Outline the situation. What was happening? What was the setting? Who was involved?
Task: Identify your task or assignment. What was the challenge? What was the problem needing to be solved?
Action: Describe what you did to accomplish the task. What did you do? How did you decide what to do? What skills did it require?
Result: Share the results. What was the outcome? Was the challenge met or problem resolved?
Takeaway: Finish with your takeaway and how it relates to the position. What did you learn from it? How does it relate to the position?
Question: Tell me about a time you had a different opinion than a coworker you were collaborating with on a project and how you approached resolving it.
Standout Answer:
In one of my psychology classes, Motivation and Emotion (Situation), we were put in teams to develop a research paper and presentation on the application of psychological theories (Task). After reviewing the theories we had studied and talking to the team about their interests, which included business management, I suggested the impact of positive psychology on employee motivation as a topic since it would be relevant to all of us. One of my team members wanted to look at motivation and weight loss. To resolve the difference and choose a topic, I asked them to describe why they suggested that topic (Action). They explained their personal interest in it and how widespread it could be applied. Then I explained the reasons I was making my suggestion, including the current prevalence of positive psychology and how it fit for the team. It was important to understand their perspective and discuss it as a team. We decided positive psychology would best lend itself to our interests and resources (Result). As an Account Manager with XXX Organization, I will use these communication and collaboration skills with clients and our team (Takeaway). I enjoy working with others to find win-win solutions, which I will always strive for at XXX.