Why are behavioral questions important in oral interviews?

Behavioral questions are essential in oral interviews because they delve into a candidate's past behavior, which can be a strong predictor of their future actions in similar situations. This approach is rooted in the idea that past performance is often indicative of future performance. By asking candidates to provide specific examples from their previous experiences, interviewers can gain valuable insights into how individuals handle various scenarios, including conflict, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making.

This method of questioning allows interviewers to assess not only the candidate's skills and capabilities but also their personality traits and values, which are crucial in roles such as firefighting and policing, where teamwork, empathy, and quick thinking are vital. The emphasis on past behavior enables a more structured assessment, leading to better hiring decisions that align with the organization's needs and culture.