When you apply for a job in training and development (HR), you can expect to be asked about your past work experience. How you answer these questions can make or break your chances of getting hired. In this article, you will learn some tips and strategies to showcase your skills, achievements, and potential as a trainer and developer.
Before you go to the interview, review the job description and the skills and qualifications that the employer is looking for. Think of specific examples from your past work experience that demonstrate how you have used or developed those skills. For instance, if the job requires strong communication skills, you can talk about how you designed and delivered effective training sessions, facilitated group discussions, or wrote clear and concise reports.
During the interview, once the interviewer has posed the question, one of the techniques than can be used is the 3R Technique: 1. Repeat - To be sure of what is being asked, we could repeat the question in our own words and verify the understanding. This would also help us buy time to finalise the content for the next R. 2. Relate - This is where you can relate the question to a past experience and in a crisp manner highlight what worked and what did not in a similar scenario 3. Register - Dont forget to register your point of view on how this can be implemented in the interviewer's organisation based on the culture /setting of the organisation
Effectively answering questions about past work experience requires a strategic approach. During an interview, I realized the significance of aligning my responses with the specific requirements of the new role. Thoroughly understand the job description and tailor my answers to showcase how my previous experiences directly relate to the key responsibilities of the position. Additionally, using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method provides a structured way to articulate accomplishments and demonstrate the impact of my contributions.
Of course, it’s important to include relevant experience, skills and knowledge related to the position you are applying for. However, your discussion about past work experience shouldn’t end there. Talking about soft skills acquired or developed at previous jobs is also important to show you have a growth mindset. Whether you are reviewing entry level or managerial positions from your work history, the interviewer wants the candidate to share what they learned or experienced along the way that brought them to their current position and why they are seeking a new opportunity. This helps the interviewer determine if the candidate is a good fit for the company and the position.
The STAR method is a widely used technique to structure responses to behavioral questions, which ask about how a situation or task was handled in the past. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. To use this method, you must explain the context of your example, describe the goal you had to achieve, outline the actions taken to complete the task or solve the problem, and highlight the results or outcomes of your actions with quantifiable or measurable data. Utilizing the STAR method can aid in providing clear, concise, and relevant answers that demonstrate your skills and accomplishments.
Effectively mentioning your contributions and accomplishments is a skill. Ensure to talk about your accomplishments by STAR method: - S: Situation (Begin by describing the context or situation you were in. Set the stage for the interviewer to understand the background of your example.) - T: Task (Clearly outline the task or challenge you were facing. Explain what needed to be accomplished or the goal you were working towards.) - A: Action (Detail the specific actions you took to address the situation or task. Focus on your individual contributions and highlight the skills you utilised.) - R: Result (Conclude by describing the positive outcomes or results of your actions. Emphasize the impact of your efforts.)
If you have limited or no experience in training and development (HR), you can still impress the interviewer by highlighting your transferable skills. These skills, which are acquired from other fields or roles, can be applied to the job you are applying for. For instance, project management, research and analysis, creativity and innovation, leadership and teamwork, and problem-solving and critical thinking are all valuable transferable skills for training and development (HR). To demonstrate your transferable skills, you need to explain how you acquired them, how you applied them in your past work experience, and how they can be advantageous to the employer and the role.
Employers often seek candidates with strong transferrable skills. These skills contribute to a candidate's overall employability and can make them stand out in a competitive job market. Try to develop resilience; It's a skill you develop over time from the lessons and experiences you absorb as you grow up and face challenges, but will make you shine.
One of the most important things to remember when answering questions about your past work experience is to be honest and positive. Do not lie or exaggerate about your skills, responsibilities, or achievements, as this can damage your credibility and reputation. Instead, focus on your strengths and accomplishments, and show enthusiasm and interest in the job and the employer. If you have any gaps or challenges in your work history, do not try to hide or avoid them. Instead, address them briefly and positively, and explain how you overcame them or learned from them.
Be a storyteller, not just a speaker. Paint a vivid picture by intertwining honesty with positivity. Share challenges as growth opportunities and mistakes as lessons learned. Illuminate your journey with genuine enthusiasm, turning tasks into triumphs. Remember, it's not just about the roles; it's about the evolution of your skills and resilience. Embrace the narrative of your career as a mosaic of experiences that have sculpted the professional you are today. Let your answers be a melody of authenticity and optimism. Because, ultimately, your past isn't just history—it's the foundation upon which your future success is built.
The best way to answer questions about your past work experience is to prepare and practice. Before the interview, research the employer, the industry, and the role, and prepare some questions to ask the interviewer. Also, review your resume and identify the most relevant and impressive examples of your past work experience. Practice answering common or likely questions using the STAR method and highlighting your transferable skills. You can use a friend, a mentor, or a coach to give you feedback and suggestions. By preparing and practicing, you can boost your confidence and performance in the interview.