Unlocking the Code : How to Ace STAR Questions and Land Your Next Role

Mastering the Job Interview

I hope you find my articles helpful. Even if just one of my connections uses something they’ve learned to land a better or new role, it’s worth it for me to post.

In this article, we’re moving beyond the job application process. Let's assume you've included the right keywords to pass the ATS scanner, tailored your CV to the position, accurately represented your experience, and highlighted the key skills listed in the job description. Congratulations! You’ve been invited for a face-to-face interview. Now what?

Many in my LinkedIn network haven’t needed to interview in years—some for decades. After learning how to get noticed, we're now faced with the challenge of interviewing with hiring managers and interview teams.

Many companies are using the STAR interview format. At Amazon, we use this method, and I find it incredibly useful when interviewing candidates. STAR helps me understand what a candidate recognized as a problem, what actions they took to solve it, and the measurable results—good or bad. https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/workplace/amazon-interview-best-tips

Here’s a brief overview of the STAR method:

• Situation: Set the scene and provide the necessary details of your example.
• Task: Describe your responsibility in that situation.
• Action: Explain the steps you took to address it.
• Result: Share the outcomes of your actions.

I have participated in roughly 1,000 interviews at Amazon, and our best candidates are those who can clearly explain the before, during, and after of a situation, complete with metrics and results.

As we continue our journey into AI and job hunting, let's explore how to prepare for face-to-face interviews by anticipating potential STAR-style questions and using our CVs to pre-populate STAR responses.

Using AI to prep for an interview.

Remember - this are hypotheticals and while it's important to familiarize yourself with the TYPE of questions you can expect, there is a near 100% chance that none of these questions will actually be asked so DO NOT MEMORIZE them.

?

AI Prompt :

Context: I am interviewing for the position of Sr. Channel BD Manager. The role involves supporting various AWS programs, working with partners and Partner Development Managers, negotiating complex contracts, driving enablement plans, and advocating for program improvements.

Problem: I need to prepare for the interview by anticipating possible behavioral questions and crafting effective responses that align with the job responsibilities and requirements.

Task: Please provide six possible behavioral questions that I might be asked during the interview. For each question, include a recommended response using the STAR format. Present the information in a tabular format. Ask me clarifying questions as needed and I will provide the job description next. Lets start with a new Job Description taken directly from the Amazon Jobs website.

JD : https://amazon.jobs/en/jobs/2668648/sr-channel-bd-manager-partner-core

?DESCRIPTION

As a Sr. Channel BD Manager, you will be supporting various programs including the AWS Solution Provider Program, Distribution Program, AWS Managed Service Provider (MSP) Program, AWS Funding Programs and more. In this role, you will work directly with partners and Partner Development Managers (PDMs) to advocate for the programs along with supporting expansion efforts, drive custom & complex contract negotiations, and drive enablement plans across various stakeholders to help AWS Channel Partners grow their AWS business. As a subject matter expert for multiple programs and experience gained in the region, you will drive feedback to the Operational Solution Provider team and product teams for the AWS products that support Channel Partners, to drive improvements. This role requires the candidate to easily converse in a range of subjects such as sales, finance, legal, and operational conversations, and be a great communicator to partners and internal teams to drive program growth. Key job responsibilities - Lead and execute GTM to orchestrate campaigns; sales motions for Partner Sellers, Sales, Partner Managers, Center of Excellence stakeholders to accelerate adoption of AWS Partner Network programs such as the Solution Provider Program, Distribution Program, MSP, Funding Programs and others. - Independently own projects cross-functional stakeholders, driving programs from ideation through implementation. This includes but is not limited to specific constructs for Channel Resellers that may cover enterprise deals. - Review and triage strategic and complex Channel partner private pricing requests, interfacing with AWS stakeholders such as Private Pricing Team, to drive requests to closure. - Contribute reporting/planning cadences to AWS executives on GTM plan execution. Leverage data analytics to capture and organize information on program trends (and report on them monthly in leadership-level business reviews) and various scenarios in order to share findings and identify areas for improvement. - Document programs’ processes and collaborate cross-functionally to improve processes, tools, and templates to make it simple and easy for cross-functional business and program teams at all levels to deliver and meet the Amazon quality bar. - Deliver partner-facing content related to Partner profitability; Demonstrate thought leadership and be able to credibly represent AWS at industry events, conferences, summits, etc. We are open to hiring candidates to work out of one of the following locations: Atlanta, GA, USA | Austin, TX, USA | Chicago, IL, USA | Irvine, CA, USA | Los Angeles, CA, USA | New York City, NY, USA | San Diego, CA, USA | San Francisco, CA, USA | Seattle, WA, USA | Washington, DC, USA

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

- 6+ years of developing, negotiating and executing business agreements experience - Bachelor's degree - Experience developing strategies that influence leadership decisions at the organizational level - Experience managing programs across cross functional teams, building processes and coordinating release schedules - Relevant GTM, Sales, Partner Sales, Partner Management and/or Program Management experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Experience interpreting data and making business recommendations - Experience identifying, negotiating, and executing complex legal agreements

Based on the job description for the Sr. Channel BD Manager role, here are six possible behavioral questions you might be asked, along with recommended responses using the STAR format. The responses are tailored to the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description.?

AI response:

Given the role of a Sr. Channel BD Manager, here are six possible behavioral questions that might be asked during your interview, along with recommended responses using the STAR format in a tabular format:

Recommended Responses (STAR Format)

1. Tell me about a time when you had to drive a complex contract negotiation.

Situation: I was leading a negotiation for a multi-million dollar contract with a key AWS partner.

Task: My goal was to ensure mutually beneficial terms while aligning with our organizational objectives and legal requirements.

Action: I engaged in thorough preparation, consulting with our legal, finance, and sales teams to understand all critical aspects. During negotiations, I facilitated open communication and leveraged data to support our position.

Result: The contract was successfully executed, resulting in a 25% increase in partner revenue and strengthening our long-term relationship.

2. Describe a situation where you led a cross-functional team to achieve a goal.

Situation: We needed to launch a new GTM campaign for the AWS Managed Service Provider Program within a tight timeline.

Task: I was tasked with coordinating efforts across sales, marketing, and technical teams to ensure a successful launch. <br>

Action: I organized regular meetings, set clear milestones, and used project management tools to track progress. I also fostered a collaborative environment to encourage input and resolve conflicts swiftly. <br>

Result: The campaign launched on time, exceeded adoption targets by 30%, and received positive feedback from both partners and internal stakeholders.

3. Can you give an example of how you used data analytics to improve a program?

Situation: Our team was facing challenges in understanding partner performance trends for the AWS Solution Provider Program. <br>

Task: I needed to analyze data to identify patterns and provide actionable insights.

Action: I gathered data from various sources, performed detailed analysis, and created comprehensive reports highlighting key trends and areas for improvement. I presented these findings to the leadership team.

Result: The insights led to strategic adjustments in the program, resulting in a 15% increase in partner engagement and a 20% boost in revenue.

4. Describe a time when you had to manage a project from ideation through implementation.

Situation: I was responsible for developing a new incentive program for AWS Channel Partners.

Task: My task was to create a program that would motivate partners to drive more sales and adopt AWS services.

Action: I conducted market research, gathered feedback from partners, and worked closely with the finance and legal teams to design the program. I then led the implementation phase, ensuring all stakeholders were aligned and trained.

Result: The program was successfully launched, and within six months, partner sales increased by 25%, significantly contributing to AWS's market share.

5. Tell me about a time when you had to represent your company at an industry event.

Situation: I was selected to represent AWS at a major cloud computing conference.

Task: My goal was to present our latest solutions and build relationships with potential partners.

Action: I prepared thoroughly by understanding the audience, refining my presentation, and planning networking strategies. During the event, I delivered a compelling presentation and engaged with numerous industry leaders.

Result: The event was a success, leading to several new partnerships and increased visibility for AWS's partner programs.

6. Give an example of a time when you had to influence leadership decisions.

Situation: I identified a gap in our AWS Funding Program that was affecting partner satisfaction and growth.

Task: I needed to convince senior leadership to approve changes to the program.

Action: I collected data on the impact of the current program, developed a detailed proposal with recommendations, and presented it to the leadership team, highlighting both quantitative and qualitative benefits.

Result: Leadership approved the proposed changes, leading to enhanced program effectiveness and a 20% increase in partner satisfaction.

These responses demonstrate your experience and skills relevant to the Sr. Channel BD Manager role while showcasing your ability to handle complex tasks, lead cross-functional teams, and drive strategic initiatives.

An alternative AI engine provided me with the following from the identical set of inputs:

Based on the job description for the Sr. Channel BD Manager role, here are six possible behavioral questions you might be asked, along with recommended responses using the STAR format. The responses are tailored to the key responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description.

Question

Recommended Response (STAR Format)

1. Can you describe a time when you led a go-to-market (GTM) campaign or strategy? What was your approach and what were the results?

Situation: At my previous company, we needed to launch a new service offering through our partner network.

Task: I was responsible for developing and executing the GTM strategy to ensure successful adoption.

Action: I collaborated with Partner Managers, Sales, and Marketing teams to design targeted campaigns, developed training materials, and set clear KPIs (LIST). We also organized webinars and partner workshops to drive engagement.

Result: The campaign led to a 30% increase in new partner enrollments and a 20% boost in service adoption within three months.

2. Describe a time when you had to negotiate a complex contract with a channel partner. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?

Situation: During a previous negotiation with a key channel partner, we faced significant pushback on pricing terms.

Task: My goal was to finalize the contract while ensuring it was mutually beneficial and aligned with our strategic goals.

Action: I facilitated discussions between our legal team and the partner’s legal team, focusing on finding common ground. I leveraged data on market trends and competitor pricing to support our position.

Result: We reached a mutually agreeable contract that increased our channel partner’s margins by 15% while securing a commitment to a long-term partnership.

3. Can you give an example of how you’ve used data analytics to drive business decisions or improve a program?

Situation: In my previous role, we noticed a decline in partner engagement with our funding programs.

Task: I was tasked with identifying the underlying issues and recommending solutions to enhance program participation.

Action: I analyzed data from partner feedback surveys, program usage metrics, and sales reports. I identified key pain points and opportunities for improvement. Based on my findings, I proposed changes to the program structure and communication strategy.

Result: These adjustments led to a 25% increase in partner participation in the funding programs within six months.

4. Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project involving multiple stakeholders. How did you ensure alignment and successful execution?

Situation: At my last job, I led a project to integrate a new service into our partner ecosystem, requiring coordination across multiple teams.

Task: My objective was to ensure seamless integration and timely delivery, aligning all stakeholders’ goals and expectations.

Action: I organized regular cross-functional meetings, established clear communication channels, and created a detailed project timeline with milestones. I also facilitated workshops to address any concerns and keep everyone aligned.

Result: The project was completed on schedule, and the new service was successfully launched, increasing partner engagement by 40%.

5. Describe a time when you had to present a complex idea or strategy to senior leadership. How did you prepare, and what was the outcome?

Situation: I needed to present a new strategy for expanding our channel partner network to senior executives.

Task: My goal was to secure their buy-in and allocate resources for the strategy’s implementation.

Action: I prepared a comprehensive presentation, supported by data analytics and case studies from successful similar initiatives. I practiced the presentation multiple times, anticipating potential questions and objections.

Result: The executives approved the strategy, and we received the necessary resources to implement it, resulting in a 50% increase in partner recruitment within the first quarter.

6. Can you provide an example of how you’ve improved a process or tool to enhance partner engagement or program efficiency?

Situation: I noticed that our partner onboarding process was cumbersome and time-consuming, leading to delays and frustration.

Task: My goal was to streamline the onboarding process to enhance partner experience and reduce time-to-market.

Action: I reviewed the existing process, gathered feedback from partners and internal teams, and identified areas for improvement. I then led the development of a new, more efficient onboarding toolkit and implemented an automated workflow system.

Result: The new process reduced onboarding time by 40% and increased partner satisfaction scores by 30%, significantly enhancing overall program efficiency.

These responses should help you demonstrate your qualifications and experiences relevant to the Sr. Channel BD Manager role. Good luck with your interview!

Remember, for each of these questions, be prepared to discuss not just your successes, but also any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. Interviewers often want to see how you handle difficulties and learn from experiences.

Wishing all of you much success in landing your new positions.

And as always please message me if you want to discuss anything here and if you have experiences or different points of view or ideas please post below so we can all learn.