A New Approach to Interview Questions: STAR vs. STARE

When it comes to acing job interviews and answering behavioral questions, the STAR model has been a staple for many. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It's a structured method for presenting your experiences and competencies in a concise and compelling manner. However, there's a new model on the block, known as the STARE model, which includes the crucial element of expertise gained from reflecting on experiences. In this article, we'll explore the evolution of STAR.

TLDR version - STARE is an enhanced interview response model that includes "E - Expertise" to highlight personal and professional growth and character development alongside the traditional STAR components. It's particularly useful in showcasing how individuals navigate challenges and ethically complex situations.

The STAR Model: A Classic Approach

The STAR model has been the go-to framework for interviewees to structure their responses effectively. Here's a quick breakdown:

1. Situation: You start by describing the context or situation you were in.
2. Task: Next, outline the task or challenge you had to address.
3. Action: Explain the actions you took to address the task or challenge.
4. Result: Finally, detail the outcomes of your actions and the impact it had.

The STAR model is a great way to tell a concise and compelling story about your experiences. It provides a clear structure that interviewers appreciate and can help you to showcase your skills and achievements effectively.

Hypothetical example:

1. Situation: In my role as a civil servant, I was entrusted with a challenging assignment involving a politically motivated project.
2. Task: My primary responsibility was to conduct a comprehensive impact assessment of the project and subsequently present my findings to the Economic Council.
3. Action: To fulfill this task effectively, I employed a multifaceted approach.
   
   First, I conducted a thorough Dupont analysis [give concrete example], scrutinized the project's financial viability, and assessed its alignment with economic policies.
   
   However, I felt it essential to express my professional perspective on the project's approach by highlighting that the project itself was suboptimal, particularly given the prevailing economic climate.
   
   Finally, I also took the initiative to streamline communications with other national authorities to ensure a more cohesive and coordinated approach to addressing the project's challenges.
4. Result: My insights and recommendations were well-received by the Economic Council, and they unanimously agreed with my assessment. However, the project was still implemented due to political reasons.

The STARE Model: Adding Expertise to the Equation

The STARE model builds upon the STAR model by adding an additional component - "Expertise." This model emphasizes not only reflecting on your experiences but also highlighting the expertise you gained from them.

1. Situation: Start by describing the situation you were in, just like in STAR.
2. Task: Outline the task or challenge you had to address, similar to STAR.
3. Action: Explain the actions you took to address the task, which aligns with STAR.
4. Result: Describe the outcomes of your actions and the impact it had, as in STAR.
5. Expertise: Here's where STARE differs. In this stage, you emphasize the expertise you gained from this experience. Reflect on what you learned, the skills you developed, and how this particular experience contributed to your overall growth.

The STARE model acknowledges the importance of continuous learning and development through experiences. By including the "Expertise" component, it encourages candidates to focus not just on what they did but also on how they grew and improved as a result.

Hypothetical example, from the one above:

5. Expertise: While the project was implemented, as a civil servant, I take great pride in my role in upholding the independence and intellectual integrity of my institution. This commitment ensured our unwavering dedication to serving the public interest.
   
   Reflecting on the project, it becomes evident that we could have conducted more proactive stakeholder engagement with key decision-makers.

Showcasing Growth, Resilience, and Character

One notable advantage of the STARE model is its ability to showcase personal growth, resilience, and character. While the STAR model typically focuses on positive experiences where you overcame challenges, STARE provides the room to highlight how you've grown in situations that might have been particularly challenging or politically motivated.

In public sector roles, for example, professionals often encounter situations where the qualities they want to showcase, such as integrity or commitment to the public good, might clash with politically motivated projects. STARE allows you to reflect on these complex experiences, demonstrating not just what you did but how you navigated ethical dilemmas, displayed resilience, and maintained your character.

When to Use Each Model

The choice between STAR and STARE depends on the context of the interview and the job you're applying for:

• Use STAR when you need to provide a clear, structured response that highlights your achievements and skills.
• Use STARE when you want to showcase not only your actions but also your commitment to personal and professional growth, resilience, and character.

Both models have their merits, and it's crucial to choose the one that best suits the specific interview question and the qualities you want to emphasize.

Conclusion

In the world of job interviews, the STAR model has long been the gold standard for structuring your responses. However, the STARE model is an exciting evolution that adds a crucial element of expertise and personal growth to the equation. By using the STARE model, you can show interviewers that you don't just meet challenges – you grow through them and display character along the way.

Ultimately, whether you choose STAR or STARE, what matters most is your ability to articulate your experiences, skills, and personal development effectively. Use the model that helps you shine in the best possible way and tailor your approach to suit the unique requirements of each interview.

Would your STARE your STAR?