What is a competency-based interview?
This interview method evaluates how candidates have acted in past work situations, looking at both formal qualifications and the personal qualities the role needs.
How it works
Interviewers ask specific questions about real workplace scenarios:
- How candidates handled difficult customer situations
- How they approached shared goals
The benefits
Objectivity — every candidate gets the same questions, which reduces bias.
Predictable behaviour — past actions are typically a good indicator of future performance.
Fewer mishires — concrete examples increase the chance of choosing the right candidate.
Tips for candidates preparing
- Identify relevant past experiences that demonstrate your skills
- Practise giving detailed descriptions of situations and their outcomes
- Analyse the requirements of the job and match your experience to them
