A competency–based interview is an approach used by interviewers to assess your performance in a particular key area or skill that is attributable to the job description.
As each interview question is asked, you need to provide a specific example of where you match the competency being assessed.
In this blog article we will explore what a competency-based interview is, provide you with some important tips for passing them, and also provide you with 25 sample questions complete with answers.
COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (TEAMWORK)
Q. When have you worked as part of a team to complete a difficult task?
The following sample response utilizes the STAR METHOD for answering competency-based or behavioural interview questions:
SITUATION – In my previous job I volunteered to work with 5 other members to complete a difficult project that had fallen by the wayside due to a contractor going out of business.
TASK – The task required all 5 of us to work closely together to integrate a new software system with the client’s website. So, we only had four days to complete the task in accordance with the specification and the client’s requirements. Therefore, time was of the essence and we needed to work hard to get everything done to a professional standard.
ACTION – We started out by reading the client brief carefully and then I decided to take the lead and allocate specific tasks based on each team members capabilities and area of expertise. So, we then set timescales for each team member to reach, which would ensure the task got completed in time. Throughout the five-day working period, we all supported each other as and when required in order to motivate each other through regular communication.
RESULT – The end result was the project was completed on time and to a high standard, much to the satisfaction of the client.
USE THE STAR METHOD WHEN ANSWERING THE QUESTIONS.
It is vital you provide specific examples and concrete evidence of where you have previously matched the assessable competency. To do this, make sure you structure your answer using the following STAR TECHNIQUE:
SITUATION – Describe the SITUATION you were in.
TASK – Describe the TASK that needed to be done.
ACTION – Describe what ACTION you took and what action others took.
RESULT – Detail the RESULT of the task following your actions.
LIST OF COMMON ASSESSABLE COMPETENCIES
The following is a detailed list of the current competencies being assessed by interviewers and recruiters:
- Teamwork
- Responsibility
- Problem solving
- Organisation
- Commitment to development
- Decision making
- Openness to change
- Communication
- Leadership
- Commercial awareness
- Customer service
- Conflict resolution
- Career motivation
- Trustworthiness & Ethics
- Results driven
- Safety conscious
COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (RESPONSIBILITY)
Q. When have you taken responsibility for a difficult task at work?
SITUATION – During an office meeting, my supervisor asked for a volunteer to work over the forthcoming weekend. One of our customer service agents had gone off sick unexpectedly and he needed someone to take on their duties at short notice.
TASK – My supervisor needed someone to quickly learn the responsibilities of the person who had gone off sick. Therefore, it was a difficult task but I felt I had a responsibility to help the company in its hour of need.
ACTION – I started out by cancelling my plans for the weekend and then focused on learning the role of my colleague so I could perform the job to the best of my ability. I decided to undertake an online course during working hours to learn as much about the role as possible. I also asked my supervisor a number of specific questions to make sure I knew exactly what I was supposed to be doing, and also what was expected of me.
RESULT – The end results was, I am pleased to say, a success. I worked for the entire weekend in the customer service role and the feedback we received from our customers was outstanding.
COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (PROBLEM SOLVING + CONFLICT RESOLUTION)
Q. Describe a time when you solved a difficult problem at work?
SITUATION – Whilst at work, I noticed two work colleagues had not been getting on for some time now. So, although the situation hadn’t yet impacted on the performance of the company, I was concerned things could escalate unless someone stepped in to resolve the problem.
TASK – I felt someone needed to get hold of the situation with a view to resolving it amicably and as quickly as possible. It was my task to get the two people together, find out what the issue was with a view to sorting the situation out so we could all move forward as a team.
ACTION – I initially sat down in private with each person individually to ask them what was going on. So, I managed to gather some useful information which led me to believe the problem was all down to a simple miscommunication. It transpired that one of them felt the other person had done been doing their job properly, which resulted in the other person having an increased workload. Therefore, I got them both together in a private room and asked them to talk sensibly about it whilst I facilitated the discussion. Although it was uncomfortable at times, they both were relieved to get the situation resolved.
RESULT – The end result was that both work colleagues cleared the air, shook hands and agreed to talk about things openly in the future, if a similar situation arose again.
COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (DECISION MAKING)
Q. When did you make a difficult decision within a team that most people were against?
SITUATION – Whilst sat at my desk one day, the fire alarm started sounding. So, I immediately got up from my desk to make my way out of the building, but I noticed the other members of the team were ignoring the fire alarm. We were situated on the 5th floor of the office block, and it was important we left quickly.
TASK – I felt it was my responsibility to force people to leave the office and make their way out safely using the fire escape. Therefore, I wasn’t going to ignore company policy and, potentially, put other people’s lives at risk.
ACTION – I shouted out loud that the fire alarm was sounding and that we all had to leave immediately. A member of the team told me to “sit back down” because the fire alarm was always going off and it was probably a false alarm anyway. So, I reminded them all that we could not use the lifts in the event of a fire alarm and that it was a long way down five flights of stairs. Eventually, they all got up from their chairs, and we all made our way out safely.
RESULT – As it transpired, there was actually a fire in the basement of the building and the fire department quickly put it out once they arrived. So, I reminded everyone of their responsibilities to follow company policy once we got back up to our office. Therefore, I would never be afraid to make unpopular decisions whenever the need arises.
COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (OPENNESS TO CHANGE)
Q. Can you give an example of when you have supported change within an organization?
SITUATION – In my previous job, a new and inexperienced manager joined the team. It was quite refreshing to have someone new join the team. She had different and creative ideas she wanted to try out which she believed would help the company to grow. Therefore, unfortunately, the vast majority of people within the team were opposed to the proposed changes and they made their feelings clear to the new manager.
TASK – I felt differently. I believe change is positive within any organisation and there is no harm in trying new and different ways of working. So on that basis, I supported my manager and decided I would speak to those against the change individually, to try and motivate them to see the potential benefits.
ACTION – I took my time to speak to everyone who was against the change and shared with my them my own view and opinion of the proposals. Eventually, most of the team began to turn their views and they each expressed a desire to embrace the change, albeit reluctantly. Therefore, we all started working with the new changes our manager had made, and I personally embraced them positively and with a motivated attitude.
RESULT – To be honest, the results were staggering. Most of the changes had a positive impact on the business and you could sense an upbeat and positive mood within the office. The changes were accepted and we all now look forward to, and embrace change, whenever it comes along.
20 FURTHER COMPETENCY-BASED INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
CUSTOMER FOCUS
Q. Describe a time when you had to deal with a customer complaint? What did you do and how did you resolve the complaint.
COMMUNICATION
Q. Describe a time when you used your communication skills to get across an important point of view?
Q. Describe a time when you had to present an idea to a group of people?
COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPMENT
Q. When have you introduced an innovative and unique idea into your team? How was it received?
Q. When have you learnt a new skill at work that helped you to perform better in your role?
Q. When did you take onboard constructive feedback from a supervisor following an appraisal?
DECISION MAKING
Q. What is the toughest decision you have ever had to make whilst at work? Why did you make the decision and what was the outcome?
Q. When have you made a mistake at work?
CAREER MOTIVATION
Q. Describe a time when you set yourself an important career goal? What difficulties did you come up against and how did you overcome them?
USING YOUR INITIATIVE
Q. Describe a time when you initiated a project whilst at work? Why did you imitate the project and what did you do to make sure it was a success?
INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
Q. Describe a situation when you had to work with someone who you didn’t get along with.
TEAMWORK
Q. Describe a time when you helped a new member of a team to integrate into the workplace.
Q. Describe a difficult and time-sensitive task you achieved whilst working as part of a team? What role did you play in ensuring the team task was a success?
LEADERSHIP
Q. Describe a situation you were in when you motivated a difficult member of a team?
Q. Describe a time when you managed an under-performing member of staff?
Q. Tell me about a project you led from beginning to end. How did you plan for the project to be a success and how did you monitor progress?
Want more expert tips for passing competency-based interview questions? Check out our Free Online Interview Training Course.
Hi Richard. Your YouTube video has been very helpful. I have been invited to attend an interview soon and was hoping whether you will be kind enough to give me a list of possible interview questions. Regards
Hi Samena,
Thank you for your feedback, we’re so glad you found this helpful. We suggest checking out our fantastic interview course to find out the types of questions you could be asked.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi
Help me with trustworthy and integrity cbi question and answer in a medical field
Hi . I have a Security Officer interview next week ( competency).
Can you upload some QA relevant to that >?>
Thanks
Hi Nikos,
It’s great to hear that you have an interview! Check out our excellent interview training course for tips on how to ace this!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
I have a Security Officer interview next week
I have an interview next Tuesday for an Optical consultant and never worked in an opticians. I have worked in retail but only in a supermarket and places like Wilkinson’s and Woolworth’s. I always seem to struggle at interviews and go blank and can’t get the right words. Can you help with any advice.
Hi Yvonne,
We can certainly help you with this – check out our fantastic interview training course for more guidance!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi, I have a competency based interview for a reception position in a hospital, any help you can give would be appreciated??
Hi Denise,
It’s great to hear that you’ve got an interview. We can certainly help with this – our NHS interview course is packed full of tips and strategies to help you score top marks!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Dear Sir/Madam
I have an interview-based competence of Liaison and logistic assistant
Hi there.
You should find lots of answers that will help with this, in our fantastic interview training course.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi
can anyone help me with an example about seeing the big picture for a competency based application?
I tried to write one but I don’t get exactly what should say and whats right to mention.
Hi there. We have lots of tips on competency based questions in our fantastic interview training course. Have a look and let us know you get on!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi Richard,
Your videos are really very helpful. I am preparing for a health improvement officer interview in a council. I was wondering if you could please share few questions specific to the above mentioned position. It’s going to help me a lot.
Thanks
Sarika Tripathi
Hi Sarika,
We’re glad to hear that you found our videos useful! Our advice, for interview preparation, to check out our comprehensive interview course. This should really give you an advantage over the competition!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
My interview is a secretarial interview
Hi there,
We can certainly assist with this. Check out our excellent interview training course for more tips.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
your video has been helpful answered a lot of my questions
thank you for the detailed explanation in the video will keep in mind for my next interview
I have applied for the role of CUstomer Service Italian Speaking for Booking.com.
Could you suggest me some questions and relatives answers to be successful and pass this interview, please?
Hi Roberta,
Great to hear that you’ve got an interview. Likely, the questions will focus around the following:
-You’ll be asked questions based on your past experience with customer service, and how you’ve demonstrated good customer service skills in the past.
-You’ll be asked questions based on your ability to work as part of a team and assist others with customer serviced related problems.
-You’ll be asked questions based on your problem solving skills, and how well you can think on your feet.
We hope this helps, and we wish you the very best of luck with your interview!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi team
thanks a lot for the info.
I have a competence interview for the role a sales executive( reservations) on 9th jan next week, kindly advise.
Thanks!
Barnabas from Kampala Uganda.
Hi there,
Great news that you have an interview! The questions will likely focus around the core competencies for the role, which you will need to study beforehand. However, these are likely to be questions testing your:
-Customer service skills.
-Power of persuasion.
-Teamwork ability
-Efficiency
-Product knowledge, and past history of utilising this.
We hope this helps!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
thank you very much
Hello
I have an interview for sales executive (reservation) which questions will they ask
Hi Fie,
While we can’t tell you the exact questions they’ll ask, the questions will probably be focused around the following:
-Your leadership skills.
-Your ability to persuade.
-Your ability to work as part of a team, and to manage a team.
-Your efficiency.
-Your timekeeping.
-Your past experience of working in a sales environment.
We hope this helps, and we wish you the very best of luck!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hello
I hv a competence test for the post of a sales executive (reservation)
Any hint of the questions
Hi Jay,
Is this in relation to an interview, or an actual test? Let us know, and we’ll do our best to assist!
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi,
I have a number of forthcoming interviews, all of which are competency based.
The roles vary slightly. but are essentially Health and Safety Manager roles.
What are the most likely questions I’ll be facing?
Hi there,
For Health and Safety Manager roles, the questions will likely focus around the following areas:
-Your ability to follow rules, guidelines and procedures.
-Your knowledge of current health and safety regulations.
-Examples of when you’ve used your health and safety knowledge in the past.
-Your ability to lead and manage others.
-Your ability to communicate effectively.
We hope this helps, and we wish you the very best of luck with your interviews.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
•Problem solving
•Organisation
••Decision making
•Openness to change
•Communication
•Customer service
•Conflict resolution
•Trustworthiness & Ethics
•Results driven
Hello,
I liked the video that you made, Please could you give me some competency questions based on teamwork, communication and leadership Please.
Many thanks Luke
Hello
thanks a lot for the precious information you share with all of us, I have a competence test for the IT Solution Assistant .Any hint of the questions?
Hi there,
Check out our excellent Interview Training Course for tips and guidance on how to pass interviews just like this.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hi,
I have a video interview for a HR Graduate Scheme position. Can you tell me what sort of questions to expect and how to ace the interview.
Thanks
Hi there,
We can certainly help with this – check out our fantastic interview training course, which should assist you.
Sincerely,
The How2Become Team
Hello
I have an interview for the position of Buyer. During my interview I will be assessed against the following competencies:
Be Our Best
Think Business
Get the Job Done
Engage With Others
Which questions will they ask?? Many Thanks.
script is so educative, please send me more on my mail. I have to go for CBI very soon.
thank you.
Hi
could anyone assist with these questions. I am confident I have the experience, however I feel very nervous ini competency based interviews – I work in health and social CarePlanning and Managing Resources
Evaluating Information and Judging Situations
Ensuring High Standards in the Service of Today including Managing Change
Building and Maintaining Relationships including Managing People
Knowledge/Experience
I will give an interview for SRHR Officer next week. For that, share the question and answer link based on competency
Please tell us about a time you have undertaken a task that required a high attention to detail
can anyone answer this question from customer service role
Good morning Richard,
I happened upon your videos whilst looking for information regarding competency questions at interview. The 2 videos I watched took the pain out of the questions and I found the STAR to be very useful. I’ve got an interview on Tuesday morning for the role of Deputy Configuration Manager within a high tech company. Are there any particular competency questions/answers not already covered that you could share with me please?
Kind regards Neil
Hi Richard,
Thanks for providing the video. You are clearly enthusiastic and passionate about helping people with their interview techniques. I have a competence based interview for a head teacher post – any help would be gratefully received and appreciated.
Hi Yvonne, you could expect competency-based questions such as:
– Tell me about a time when you have helped to support diversity.
– Tell me about a time when you have sought to improve the way you do something following feedback from someone else.
– Can you provide an example of a time you have planned or organised an event?
Hi Richard, your tips are helpful have got a student Accommodation Advisor ( competency) interview next week . Please can you tell me what sort of questions to expect
Hi Bridgette, you could expect questions such as:
– Provide an example of a time when you have gone above and beyond your duties.
– Tell me about a time you have handled confidential information and what steps you took to keep the information confidential.
Hi I have a video interview for NHSBTS nhs blood transplant any ideas of the competency questions they ask as not very confident doing these and really nervous .. appreciate any help
Many thanks
Debbi
Hi Debbie, you can find plenty of sample competency-based interview questions in our online course – get free access now: https://www.how2become.com/free-online-interview-training-course/
Hi
Can you help with competency based questions for a HR Manager’s Role for a senior company
Hi Isobel, we’ve got another great blog for this: https://www.how2become.com/blog/hr-manager-interview-questions/ 🙂
Virgin Media Outbound Sales Competency ZOOM Interview. Please Advise.
Hi Chuck,
Best of luck for your interview. You may be asked questions like the following:
– Why do you want to work for Virgin Media?
– When do you believe it is best to cease pursuing a sale?
– What experience do you have working in sales?
– Tell me about your greatest achievement working in sales.
– Do you think it’s more important to gain new customers, or retain existing customers? Explain your reasoning.
i have a 2nd interview for a medical affairs operational manager do you have compentancy based questions that i can answer at all please in preparation? i am getting myself worked up now and panicking….
Hi Teena, you may be asked competency-based questions such as:
– Tell me about a time you have worked as part of team to reach a target/goal.
– Are you self motivated?
– What would be your first priority if you were successful in this role?
You can read our sample answers to questions like these and many more interview questions in our online course (currently free for 30 days!)
Please can you help me prepare for my interview
The interview will consist of semi-formal competency based questions. Please also be prepared for some competency based discussion – examples of spotting opportunity to work smarter or more effectively, to innovate, to positively challenge and change the status quo.
Hi Kuldip, thanks for commenting 🙂 what kind of interview are you preparing for?
I have an interview for a project support officer at girls guiding and it says it will be competency and biograghical question
Good luck for your interview 🙂
This kind of role will require an ability to work well with different people/departments so you should prepare answers that demonstrate when you have done this previously.
You should also aim to demonstrate organisational and time management skills.
Thank you
Really is very helpful and I benefited from so much.
Thank you for supporting
Hi Richard,
Thanks for providing the video. You are clearly enthusiastic and passionate about helping people with their interview techniques.
I have a competence based interview for a FG WAREHOUSE CHECKER IN A BOTTLING COMPANY – any help would be gratefully received and appreciated.
Hi Okechukwu, thank you for your comment 🙂
For a warehouse checker role you will need a keen eye for detail, the ability to use your initiate to solve problems, strong time-keeping skills, and excellent communication skills to liase with other departments.
With this in mind, your interview questions will likely revolve around skills such as the above. The types of questions you may be asked are:
– Give me an example of when you have remained calm in a stressful situation.
– Tell me about a time when you have completed a time-sensitive task. What was the outcome?
– How will you ensure you are motivated in this role?
Hi Andy
Thank you so much for this article it is very helpful
Please what possible competency questions I should expect from this skills
• Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness
• Works Collaboratively with others
• Builds and Maintains Partnerships
• Innovates and Embraces Change
• Thinks and Acts Strategically
• Drive to achieve impactful results
• Manages ambiguity and complexity
Hi Gil,
You may be asked questions such as:
– Tell me about a time you took lead in a group task, what was the outcome?
– Tell me about a time when you received feedback that initiated a modification to your work performance.
– How would you tackle a task you are unfamiliar with?
– What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your professional life?
– Tell me about a time when you have demonstrated determination at work.
Best of luck for your interview!
Good day Sir!
Thanks for guiding on questions and answers. I have interview for Procurement position soon. Any advice or guidance will be much appreciated.
Hi Bonu, for a procurement role you may be asked questions such as:
– What is the hardest procurement project you have been involved in?
– During a difficult project, how would you maintain motivation?
– How would you tackle a new procurement project?
– Tell me about a time when you have utilised negotiating skills. What was the outcome?
I have a interview for a business Analyst (IT)
the interview is going to be based on Competency based questions.
so your help and support would be greatly appreaciated.
Hi Vic, best of luck for your interview. You could be asked questions such as:
– Tell me how you would approach a new task you are unfamiliar with?
– How would you define good customer experience?
– Tell me how you would approach risk?
Checkout our interview training course for more help with competency-based interviews.
Hi there really loved your video. I have an assessment day with British airways for cabin crew and would really appreciate some help with some possible questions I need to focus on many thanks david
Hi David! Thank you for your comment and kind words 🙂 Here are a few questions you might come across during your interview with them:
Why do you want to work for British Airways?
What challenges will our airline face in the future, and how can you, as a cabin crew member, help us to overcome these?
Do you think you will find the change in lifestyle difficult to adapt to, if you are successful in becoming a member of the cabin crew team?
How do you feel about working with people from different cultures and backgrounds?
I hope this helps!
Hello please i have a competency and a chronological Topgrading Interview today for a salesperson role.
On the job description it says,
“Only apply if you are a truly awesome salesperson. You have a burning desire to succeed, are extremely client oriented, highly motivated and never say die. You develop deep and meaningful rapport with your clients, and communicate with piercing persuasiveness. You believe you can be the best at almost everything you do, and can prove it. Don’t apply unless you fit this bill. Please what may i likely expect?
Hi! They are most likely be looking for the candidate with the right interpersonal skills so if you are this person described in their job description you do not have to worry 🙂