Tuesday Tactics! The little extra to make you stand out in Competency-Based Interviews: The Power of Learning Quotient (LQ)

The little extra to make you stand out in Competency-Based Interviews: The Power of Learning Quotient (LQ)

“Congratulations! You've successfully passed the written assessment and secured an invitation to a competency-based interview.”

Then what?

Competency-based interviews (CBIs) follow a structured approach designed to assess a candidate's suitability for a specific role based on demonstrated competencies, skills, and behaviors. By diving into your past experiences and actions, the hiring panel is looking to assess your future performance in the desired role.

Preparing for a CBI involves more than just reviewing the competencies listed in the vacancy notice. It's about identifying examples from your past that effectively demonstrate these competencies, ready to be tailored to different interview questions.

But here's a pro tip: don't forget the "L" at the end of CAR (Challenge, Action, Result) or STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This "L" stands for Learning – an essential component that can make your answers stand out even more.

The invisible “L” in these answer models, is what truly sets your answers apart. By this you are incorporating the element of learning. This isn't just about recounting past experiences; it's about reflecting on what you've learned from them and how you've applied that knowledge moving forward. And this is where your Learning Quotient (LQ) comes into play.

Although in the interview situation your full Learning Quotient is hard to measure, the fact that you talk about the learning of an experience may evidence how you then apply the learning to future situations.

So, what exactly is the Learning Quotient (LQ) and why is it important?

LQ measures an individual's capacity for learning and adapting to new information, skills, and environments. In today's dynamic world, where change is constant, a high LQ is invaluable to organizations. It enables individuals and organizations to stay agile, innovative, and competitive.

Learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's the foundation of innovation. Individuals with a high LQ are more likely to generate creative ideas and contribute to organizational success.

Moreover, employers increasingly value employees who are lifelong learners. Individuals with a high LQ demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development, making them highly desirable to prospective employers.

For further insights on why LQ matters, check out this article: Up Your Learning Quotient: Why LQ Matters More Than IQ In Today’s Fast-Changing World (forbes.com)