Advice for strictly behavioral interviews.

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some detailed strategies and methods to prepare for behavioral interviews, especially for a summer associate healthcare consulting role:

Key Behavioral Questions to Prepare For:

1. Tell me about a time you succeeded.
2. Tell me about a time you failed.
3. Tell me about your 3 strengths and 3 weaknesses.
4. Tell me about a time you worked on a team.

Methods to Create Stories:

1. Identify Core Stories:

   • Develop 4-5 personal stories that you can use to answer multiple questions. For example, a leadership example can also be used as an initiative example or a project you are proud of.
   • Ensure these stories cover a wide range of experiences and can be adapted to different questions.

2. Use the STAR-L Method:

   • Situation: Briefly describe the context (10-15 seconds).
   • Task: Explain the task or challenge you faced (10-15 seconds).
   • Action: Detail the actions you took (60-75 seconds).
   • Result: Share the outcome of your actions.
   • Learning: Highlight what you learned from the experience.

3. Practice and Record:

   • Record each story at least 10 times on video. This helps you refine your delivery and ensure it sounds natural.
   • Practice in front of a mirror or with friends to get comfortable with your stories.

4. Frameworks and Bullet Points:

   • Create 5-10 frameworks for common questions. Write answers in 4-6 bullet points, focusing on main ideas rather than scripting every word.
   • Ensure your answers are based on reality and are authentic.

5. Tailor Your Answers:

   • Customize your stories for each firm and role. Highlight traits and experiences that align with the specific job you are applying for.

Additional Tips:

• Emotional and Tonal Layering: Once you have your stories down, practice adding emotions and varying your tone to make your delivery more engaging.
• Desirable Traits: Focus on traits like leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability. Make sure your stories reflect these qualities.
• Concrete and Relatable: The more specific and relatable your stories are, the more impactful they will be. Reflect on your experiences and make them as concrete as possible.

Resources:

• Case Books: Find a case book that helps you learn the strategy and approach to tackling a case. This can also be useful for behavioral questions.
• Behavioral Interview Guide: Use resources like the Wall Street Oasis Behavioral Interview Guide to consolidate a list of common questions and frameworks.

By following these methods and tips, you can create compelling stories and be well-prepared for your upcoming behavioral interview. Good luck with your first-round interview later this week!

Sources: Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, Superday Advice From a Tired Interviewer, Fit/Behavioral Interviews - A Crash Course, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, Fit/Behavioral Interviews - A Crash Course