Interview guide · Updated 15 October 2026
Competency-based interview questions and how to answer them
Competency-based interviews ask for real examples of the skills in the job description. They're common in the public sector, large employers and graduate schemes. Questions usually begin "Tell me about a time when…" or "Give an example of…".
Common questions by competency
| Competency | Typical question | What they're looking for |
|---|---|---|
| Teamwork | Tell me about a time you worked with others to achieve something. | Your own contribution, how you handled disagreement |
| Communication | Describe a time you had to explain something complicated. | Adapting to the audience, checking understanding |
| Customer focus | Give an example of dealing with a difficult customer. | Listening, staying calm, a fair outcome |
| Problem solving | Tell me about a problem you solved at work. | How you found the cause, options considered |
| Working under pressure | Describe a time you had several deadlines at once. | Prioritising, communicating early |
| Leadership | Tell me about a time you led or motivated others. | Setting direction, supporting people, results |
| Adaptability | Give an example of a change you had to adapt to. | Positive attitude, learning quickly |
How to prepare
- Copy the essential criteria from the job advert or person specification.
- Paste the advert into the interview question tool to see likely questions for each requirement.
- Prepare one real example per competency using the STAR method.
- Have a back-up example for the most important competencies.
- Practise aloud, aiming for about two minutes per answer.
Tip: Interviewers often ask follow-ups such as 'What would you do differently?' Think about that for each example.
Public sector and Civil Service interviews
The Civil Service uses Success Profiles, which assess behaviours, strengths, experience, ability and technical skills. Behaviour questions work like competency questions. See the Civil Service behaviours guide.
FAQs
How many examples should I prepare?
At least one for each essential criterion in the advert, plus a spare for the most important ones. Six to eight examples covers most interviews.
Can I use the same example twice?
Ideally not in the same interview. A varied set of examples shows a wider range of experience.
Sources
- National Careers Service: Interview advice
- GOV.UK: Success Profiles (Civil Service recruitment framework)
Links checked 15 October 2026.