The STAR technique is the best way to showcase your experiences, whether that is in an application form, covering letter or during an interview. It gives you a structure to help you clearly and concisely answer questions.
What does STAR stand for?
Situation
Describe the situation and when it took place
Task
Explain the task and what was the goal
Action
Provide details about the action you took to attain this
Result
Conclude with the result of your action
Answering competency-based questions
Questions that are focused on demonstrating your skills are called competency-based questions and this is where using STAR can really provide a structure to your response.
An example question with an unstructured answer
Question:
Describe a time when you have demonstrated excellent presentation skills
Unstructured answer:
As part of my course, I had to present at a student conference. I chose to present on ‘The power of the media’, incorporating interactive elements to engage the audience. The audience seemed to enjoy the presentation and I passed the assessment which I believe demonstrations my experience of planning and delivery presentations effectively
Here's the same question using the STAR technique
Situation
As part of my module on cultural identity, I had to research an individual project and present it to my seminar group during a student conference.
Task
I chose to discuss the power and control of the media and develop an interactive component alongside the presentation.
Action
When delivering the session, I was aware that I was presenting to a small group so incorporated a game about headline usage and news topics.
I ensured that I used credible sources and citations to evidence points and strengthen discussions within the group.
Additionally, I prepared handouts for the participants and assessors and used a clear structure for the presentation.
Result
I was awarded 72% for this module and was complemented on my ability to engage the audience and communicate a complex argument clearly.
I prepared STAR responses for all the company's competencies that way I knew I could be confident when answering any question.