As job seekers, we all know how crucial the interview process is in the hiring process. Employers use interviews to get a better sense of candidates, their skills, qualifications, and experience. STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method is a popular tool for answering interview questions. However, this technique may not be ideal for everyone. In this article, we explore some alternatives to the STAR method for job interviews.

1. SOAR Method

The SOAR (Situation, Obstacle, Action, Result) method is a variant of STAR, which can be an alternative if you find it challenging to come up with a clear task or challenge. SOAR encourages job seekers to speak about obstacles they may have overcome during their career. This method allows a candidate to showcase their resilience, creativity, and determination to overcome unforeseen obstacles.

2. CAR Method

The CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) method is another alternative to the STAR framework. Here, candidates should focus more on the challenges they faced and how they acted to address the specific issue. The CAR technique rephrases the “Task” to “Challenge,” and by doing so, it enables candidates to demonstrate how they approached a situation proactively.

3. PARADE Method

The PARADE (Problem, Action, Result, Analysis, Decision, Engagement) method is more structured and detailed than the other methods mentioned. Job seekers who like to be precise and specific about their achievements can use this technique. With this method, candidates first describe the problem they encountered and then the actions they took. Next, they outline the results they achieved, analyze the results, make data-driven decisions, and engage others in the outcome or solution to the problem.

4. OAR Method

The OAR (Opportunity, Action, Result) method is another popular alternative to the traditional STAR method. The OAR model is more suitable for showcasing achievements, growth, and embracing new opportunities. This method encourages job seekers to narrate a situation in which an opportunity presented itself or something they pursued. Candidates then explain the action they took and the result achieved by taking the opportunity.

5. CIRS Method

The CIRS (Challenge, Impact, Resolution, Summary) technique is more beneficial for job seekers who prefer a simplified structure when answering interview questions. The CIRS Method asks candidates to discuss a challenge they faced, describe the impact it had, explain the resolution they implemented to address it, and conclude by summarizing the results achieved.

In conclusion, job interviews can be challenging for some, especially when it comes to answering behavioral-based questions. While the STAR method is the most common interview method, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Job seekers should seek out other methods, like SOAR, CAR, PARADE, OAR, and CIRS, to tell their stories, demonstrate their skills, and prove their suitability for the role. Remember, the objective of the interview is to showcase your best self, and by finding the right method to answer interview questions, you set yourself apart from others. Happy job hunting!