Good, Better, and Best Responses to Behavioral Interview Questions

Picture this: an entire U.S. office shut down with a single email – “You’ve been deemed redundant.” The aftermath? Tears, anger, and even the creation of an unemployed mixtape. The job market is brutal, especially in sectors like banking, fintech, and crypto. With so many talented individuals vying for limited positions, standing out in interviews is more crucial than ever. Simply knowing the STAR method isn’t enough; you need to differentiate yourself. This got me thinking: what exactly differentiates a good response from a better one, and what makes a response the absolute best? 

In this blog, we will explore the good, better, and best ways to respond to behavioral interview questions through a case study. We will take a look at a job post from a young fintech company, Kikoff, to illustrate how you can elevate your interview answers and land your next job.

Understanding Behavioral Interviews

Behavioral interview questions are a type of questioning technique used by employers to assess a candidate’s past behavior in specific situations. Unlike traditional interview questions that focus on hypothetical scenarios or general qualifications, behavioral questions aim to uncover how candidates have handled real-life challenges and situations in the past. These questions often begin with phrases such as: “tell me about a time when” or “describe a situation where.” 

Breaking Down the Levels: Good, Better, Best

Let’s dissect the three levels of responses: good, better, and best.

Good Responses

A good response requires a solid understanding of the job description, self-awareness, and the ability to articulate your experiences using the STAR method. Many candidates prepare answers to the commonly asked questions in advance and rigidly stick to them during the actual interview. However, to truly shine, you need to tailor your responses to the specific role and company.

When you read a job description, you’ll want to focus on attributes and expertise (e.g., subject matter expertise). Attributes are the personal qualities and soft skills required for the job. These might include:

• Communication Skills: The ability to convey information clearly and effectively.
• Teamwork: The capability to work collaboratively with others.
• Problem-Solving: The talent for identifying issues and developing solutions.
• Adaptability: The flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances.
• Leadership: The skills to lead, motivate, and manage a team or project.
• Time Management: The ability to manage time efficiently and meet deadlines.
• Attention to Detail: Precision and thoroughness in completing tasks.

Expertise, on the other hand, refers to specialized knowledge, skills, and experience in particular areas. Expertise is often specific to the job or industry and can include both technical skills and domain-specific knowledge. There are several types of expertise:

• Subject Matter Expertise (SME): This is in-depth knowledge and skills in a particular field or industry. For example, in a fintech role, SME might include familiarity with financial regulations, blockchain technology, or digital payment systems.
• Technical Expertise: These are specific technical skills required for the job. For example, proficiency in programming languages (Python, Java), software development methodologies (Agile, Scrum), or data analysis tools (SQL, Tableau).
• Industry Expertise: Understanding of the specific industry in which the company operates. This includes knowledge of industry trends, market dynamics, regulatory environment, and key players. For instance, expertise in the banking sector would involve knowledge of financial products, banking regulations, and customer behavior.
• Process Expertise: This involves proficiency in specific processes or methodologies relevant to the job. Examples include project management (PMP certification), quality assurance processes, or compliance procedures.
• Product Expertise: Detailed knowledge about the company’s products or services. This includes understanding product features, user experience, and how the product meets customer needs.
• Legal Expertise: Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and legal practices. This is crucial for roles in legal, compliance, or regulatory affairs. For example, understanding GDPR, CCPA, or financial regulations like Dodd-Frank.

You’ll need to reflect on your experiences and how they align with the expertise and attributes mentioned in the job description. 

Ready to kick off our case study (pun intended)? Kikoff is a Cali based finance platform designed to help customers achieve financial wellness through various credit-building solutions. They posted an opportunity for a Product Counsel. Here is an abridged excerpt of the job description:

• Partner closely with our product, engineering, and business teams to advise on a range of issues . . . . 
• Forge effective relationships with external counsels, partners, vendors, and regulators.
• Work collaboratively to build Kikoff’s legal and regulatory structure and support strategic partnerships.
• Build trust and credibility with internal and external stakeholders. 
• You have deep familiarity with fintech, or financial services laws and regulations such as Reg V, Reg Z, Reg B, Reg P, CCPA, UDAAP, Reg E, and BSA/AML.

As we read the job description, we highlighted anything that sounds like an attribute or expertise. Now, assess whether they are highlighting one particular attribute or several ones. Looking at the Product Counsel job description, we begin to see a theme – teamwork, communication, and collaboration with both internal and external teams. 

Let’s use the strategy for “good” responses to answer a potential question we could get for the Product Counsel role.  

Example Question: Tell me about a time you had to meet a tight deadline.

Good Response: In my previous role, we decided to enhance the underwriting structure for a loan product (Situation). I was tasked with ensuring compliance with regulations like Reg B and Reg Z (Task). I coordinated with our data science team and banking partner to meet our deadlines. I created a detailed schedule, delegated tasks, and held regular meetings (Action). We completed the project on time, receiving positive feedback from senior management and our banking partner (Result).”

What we did in this situation was:

• Answered their question using the STAR method, 
• Subtly and naturally incorporated the subject matter expertise they were looking for (Reg B and Reg Z), and 
• Demonstrated strong communication skills and collaboration with both internal (data science) and external (banking partner) teams.

Better Responses

A better response incorporates all the elements of a good response but also aligns with the company’s values. Research the company’s mission and values to tailor your answers.

Kikoff’s values include financial empowerment, inclusivity, transparency, continuous learning, and customer-centricity. The best way to find this info is to check out the company’s careers page and glassdoor.  

Example Question: Tell me about a time you had to meet a tight deadline.

Better Response: In my previous role, we decided to enhance the underwriting structure for a loan product (Situation). I was tasked with ensuring compliance with regulations like Reg B and Reg Z (Task). I coordinated with our data science team and banking partner to meet our deadlines. I created a detailed schedule, delegated tasks, and held regular meetings (Action). We completed the project on time, receiving positive feedback from senior management and our banking partner (Result). The further impact was our clients appreciated our transparency and commitment to helping them navigate their financial challenges (Result). They even left some google stars feedback to that effect. Knowing that my work positively impacts people’s financial well-being is incredibly rewarding.“

This response is better because it not only answers the question but also highlights alignment with the company’s values of transparency and customer focus. You also demonstrate a passion for financial empowerment which is one of the company’s core values. 

Best Responses

The best response includes all elements of the good and better responses but also demonstrates cultural fit and highlights the experience required for the role, especially for senior and executive positions.

You might be wondering – what exactly is cultural fit? It refers to how well a candidate aligns with the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that define an organization’s culture. It encompasses:

• Values and Beliefs: Does the candidate’s personal values and beliefs align with those of the organization?
• Work Style: How does the candidate prefer to work? If you are applying at a fintech, you’ll need to make it clear that you do well in fast-paced high stakes environments. 
• Behavior and Attitude: How does the candidate handle stress and problem solve? 
• Company Mission: Does the candidate feel passionate about the company’s mission and purpose?  
• Social Dynamics: Does the person seem like they would get along with the existing team or would they disrupt the social dynamics?  

Cultural Fit Example:

When interviewing for a position, consider the company’s culture in how you present yourself. For example, wearing a suit to a video conference interview is appropriate for a traditional bank, but for a fintech startup, a more relaxed and modern attire might be better. Take a look at the company’s careers page, where you know there will be images of the company. If someone were to read too much into your suit for a fintech interview they might think you aren’t humble and wouldn’t fit in with the existing team – creating a problem for the social dynamics. Your appearance and demeanor should reflect the company’s ethos. 

PS: If you feel like you have to be someone different than who you are, ask yourself why this is. Are you scared about a new culture, or does the culture truly not align with your views? In the latter case, my advice is not to pursue the role if you can afford not to, although there are other variables to consider.

Now, what about experience? This is particularly important for individuals that are applying to senior, executive, and C-suite roles. You want to make sure you highlight the required leadership needed for the role in your behavioral responses. For example, if you are applying for a General Counsel role, you’ll want to emphasize your management experience and business acumen – such as  hiring and firing decisions, retaining outside counsel, and making technology and legal operations decisions that save the company money. 

Another important point about highlighting experience during the interview process is that the salary you start at will be connected to this. Imagine, getting to the finish line for a role that pays $300-500K base at a bank.  Let’s say you want $400K. Without you having demonstrated why you’re worth $400K, it’s likely they’ll make you the offer at what sounds right to them. Providing evidence throughout the interview process will make it easier to negotiate at the final stages.     

Checklist 

When preparing for a behavioral interview, remember to:

Use the STAR method

Know the job description (focus on attributes and expertise)

Know the company, including its values

Know yourself 

Prepare tailored responses (specific to the company, it’s values and the role)

Demonstrate cultural fit (e.g., values and beliefs, work style, behavior and attitude, company mission, and social dynamics)

Discuss the required experience and leadership (if applicable)

Conclusion 

Behavioral interviews are not just about demonstrating your skills and experiences; they’re about showcasing how well you align with the company’s values and culture. A good response shows your ability to use the STAR method effectively. A better response tailors your answers to the company’s mission and values. The best response goes a step further, demonstrating a deep understanding of the company’s culture and how you fit into it.

In today’s competitive job market, distinguishing yourself in an interview can make all the difference. By preparing thoughtful, tailored responses and demonstrating your cultural fit, you not only show that you can do the job but that you will thrive in the company’s environment. This comprehensive approach will help you stand out and increase your chances of securing the job you want.

Remember, a successful interview is not just about answering questions—it’s about telling your story in a way that resonates with the employer and aligns with their vision. Good luck 🍀

To learn about our interview coaching services, check out our coaching pages.

Fun Facts

The last song on the unemployed mixtape referenced in our intro is Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive. “