For international students aiming to work at major companies in North America, the BQ (Behavioral Questions) interview is very important. Here are three practical tips that might help you in your interviews.
Understand the Company and Show Genuine Interest
In a BQ interview, the interviewer wants to see if you really want to work for the company. When asked, "What do you know about our company?", your answer should be well-thought-out and show that you're eager to join. Make sure to research the company’s website to learn about its services, history, values, and any recent updates. You can also check LinkedIn to understand the company’s team culture and what kind of people they hire. This will help the interviewer see that you're truly interested.
Use the STAR Method to Answer Questions
Employers value problem-solving skills and the ability to think independently. When answering BQ questions, you can follow the STAR method. For example, when explaining a past project, talk about the Situation (the background and challenges), the Task (what your role was), the Action (what steps you took), and the Result (what happened in the end and what you learned). Practicing this method will make your answers more clear, organized, and persuasive.
Know Your Resume and Practice with Mock Interviews

The questions in a BQ interview are often based on what’s on your resume, so you need to be very familiar with everything listed. Before your interview, review your resume and be prepared to discuss every project or experience. Be able to explain the goals, your role, any challenges you faced, and how you solved them.
Also, keep these tips in mind for a successful interview:
1. Confidence: Confidence comes from being prepared. The more you practice and study, the more confident you’ll feel.
2. Start with Smaller Companies: You can gain experience by interviewing with smaller companies first, which will help build your skills for bigger interviews.
3. Check Your Equipment: Before a video interview, make sure everything works properly to avoid any technical issues.
4. Salary Negotiation: If you have offers from other big companies, it can help you negotiate a better salary. It’s a good idea to apply to several companies so you can choose the best one for you.
In the competitive job market, it’s essential to prepare well. Following these tips can help international students stand out in BQ interviews and increase their chances of getting the job they want.