Here's how you can tackle a behavioral interview question about statistics.

Firstly, understand the question, then use the STAR method: Specific situation Tasks Action Results of the experience you're describing

You need to be able to explain these concepts to lay stakeholders, so its essential that you summarise and simplify statistical jargon into something meaningful. You need to be able to explain its relevance and meaning in the question/context, i.e. why does the median make more sense for financial datasets than the mean?

In my experience Understanding statistical concepts allows me to transform complex data into actionable insights, driving informed decision-making. By simplifying technical terms, enabled me to communicate effectively these insights to diverse stakeholders, ensuring data-driven strategies are accessible to all. For instance, I described standard deviation as a measure of consistency. This approach helps non-technical stakeholders understand and value the insights derived from data analysis.

If it is for an interview, I would say that fundamental knowledge doesn't cut it. Sometimes interviewers are interested in your knowledge of advanced procedures. E.g. I was recently asked what a specific formula was. As such, to prepare for an interview, it might be helpful to jot down a few formulas on a separate sheet and bring them into the interview. Have an understanding of what the formula does but don't pressure yourself to be able to do arithmetic.

Take time to think of a specific situation and apply the STAR method to describe how you dealt with an issue. Breaking down a task into manageable chunks will also help to explain how a statistical problem can be solved systematically. Focusing on relatable situations from your previous experiences relating to the new industry will allow your audience to understand your approach from their own perspective.

Understanding mean, median, and mode helps in identifying the central tendency of data, which is crucial for making informed decisions. For instance, while the mean gives an overall average, the median provides a better measure of central tendency in skewed distributions. I use these measures to identify trends and outliers in data.

To get the most out of the STAR method, you should be doing a few things before the interview: 1) Be prepared to talk about anything that you list on your resume. These are all items that can be wrapped into your responses. 2) Think about areas of weakness. This will come into the Situation part of the STAR method. Be prepared to talk about how you overcame your weaknesses. 3) Practice, practice, and last-but most importantly-practice. Speaking in the STAR method is an acquired skill.

Some feedback I received from an interviewer is that many candidates don't focus enough on the "R" aspect of STAR. This may be because they think that the "R" is implicit because they already explained the "STA" aspect. Don't forget to add in your "R", even if it's one sentence, "my stakeholder was satisfied with the analysis I provided and it was compiled in a report to inform decision-making on x topic".

Highlighting learning helps to keep you informed about where you are differently from where you are coming from that is, a track record of your progress. Knowing that learning is taking place fuels you with confidence to face other challenges

? Challenge: Communicating complex statistical results to non-technical stakeholders was challenging due to the intricate nature of the data. ? Solution: I leveraged advanced data visualization tools to create intuitive and interactive dashboards. ? Insight: I learned that effective data visualization is key to making complex data accessible and actionable, facilitating better decision-making process.

Statistics is used in different disciplines. It is crucial to show that you can transfer the knowledge and apply it to different fields. In the end, if you understand statistics, the rest is about to give to your results a proper interpretation in the context

To tackle behavioral interview questions about statistics: 1. Understand the question and its context. 2. Prepare examples highlighting statistical skills and expertise. 3. Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. 4. Highlight technical skills and specific statistical techniques used. 5. Showcase problem-solving abilities and data analysis expertise. 6. Emphasize collaboration and communication skills. 7. Reflect on lessons learned and growth. 8. Stay focused, concise, and structured in your responses. Practice beforehand.