Heading into a job interview without a plan for structuring your answers is a bad idea. But nearly as bad is going in with a plan that’s outdated and inadequate to the task.
Most candidates have at least a passing familiarity with the STAR Method for answering interview questions. With this approach, you begin by setting the scene (Situation) and outlining your role (Task), then describe the specific actions you took (Action), and finally, highlight the results or outcomes of these actions (Result).
There’s nothing egregiously wrong with that approach, but it neglects three of the biggest characteristics that interviewers want to see these days: emotional intelligence, coachability and growth. In fact, research has found that coachability and emotional intelligence are two of the biggest reasons why new hires fail.
It’s not enough to say something like: “I was responsible for launching a marketing campaign (Situation & Task). I created a detailed plan and delegated tasks efficiently to meet the deadline (Action). The campaign was launched successfully and on time (Result).”
Sure, you got the job done, but did you learn anything? How did you grow? Do you have the emotional intelligence to adapt to new situations?
I’m going to suggest a more modern approach that adds a layer of introspection and learning: the SHER Method. SHER stands for Situation, Hurdle, Endgame, and Reflection. Given the importance of showcasing emotional intelligence in today’s job market, the SHER Method gives you a chance both to structure your answers and to show off your capacity for self-awareness, coachability and growth.
Imagine that a candidate was asked to describe a time they received tough feedback from their boss. Let’s look at how they could answer the question using SHER.
Situation (Setting the Scene)
Initiating your response, it’s important to set the context by detailing a specific situation in which you were involved. Use first-person pronouns and past-tense verbs to create a connection with your story, focusing on the events without delving too much into the obstacles at this stage.
Example: “I had been given an assignment to do a quick demo for a boss. The instruction I received was unclear.”
Hurdle (Acknowledging the Challenges)
In this phase, highlight the specific challenges you encountered. SHER method allows for a clear distinction between the situation and the hurdles faced, enriching your narrative with depth.
Example: “I assumed I knew what the topic was and prepared a broad and technical presentation. This was not the presentation the director wanted. He gave me some tough feedback.”
Endgame (Solving and Overcoming)
Next, articulate how you addressed these challenges. This is your moment to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and proactive approach.
Example: “I realized my failings: One, I didn’t ask for clarification. Two, I didn’t ask the advice of my team. I was given the opportunity to do the presentation again. This time, I prepared the correct information and rehearsed and got feedback from my team members.”
Reflection (Continuous Growth)
Conclude by reflecting on how this experience has influenced your professional growth. This introspective step is crucial as it shows your ability to learn from experiences and evolve.
Example: “Reflecting further on this experience, I recognized the critical importance of effective communication and teamwork in ensuring project success. The initial setback highlighted my tendency to work in isolation, underestimating the value of collective input. After receiving feedback, I actively sought my team’s perspectives, which not only improved the quality of the presentation but also fostered a more collaborative work environment. This experience taught me to value diverse viewpoints and to never underestimate the power of asking for help or clarification.”
Notice how you can really see the growth and evolution of this candidate? And how the story they share is more captivating because it has a dramatic arc?
The SHER Method offers candidates a more nuanced and reflective approach to interview responses. By focusing not only on the actions taken but also on the challenges faced and lessons learned, candidates can present themselves as thoughtful, proactive, and growth-oriented professionals.
So, the next time you’re preparing for a job interview, really reflect on what you’ve learned from your various challenges. It’ll impress your interviewer and highlight your emotional intelligence, coachability and growth.