Competency-Based Interview
An interview format using past behavior to predict future job performance.
Also: CBI · behavioral interview
Definition
A competency-based interview, also called a behavioral interview, is a structured interview approach based on the premise that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance. Interviewers ask candidates to provide specific examples of how they have demonstrated key competencies required for the role, using the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Responses are evaluated against pre-defined scoring criteria tied to the competency framework.
Example
“The interviewer asked, 'Tell me about a time when you had to influence a senior stakeholder without direct authority,' to assess the competency of influencing and negotiating.”
Synonyms
- behavioral interview
- situational interview
- STAR interview
- evidence-based interview