Interview at State Department for Domestic/Civil Service

[Anonymous]

I would be very grateful for any advice on what to expect in an interview for civil service position in the State Department for someone with no fed government interviewing experience. In particular, how much of the interview should I expect to be behavioral and how much subject matter expertise or does that depend very much on the Bureau? Are behavioral questions likely to be based on the online questions, the job duties or the KSAs - I assume the KSAs and that the online questions are for screening? TIA.

[Anonymous]

Be sure to come across as nice, likable, and somone that can easily get along and work with others. After introductions and initial questions take the steering wheel and take control, not command, of the interview. Follow up with questions by giving concrete examples of past work experience. "I can actually give you a specific example related to my prior work experience in this area..."

In giving examples, don't divulge any sensitive information or information that would be considered non-public at your current employer. You want to demonstrate that you respect and will safeguard non-public information.

Get caught up with current and global events. And be prepared to be able to provide constructive opinions, original thoughts related to the trends in your field. In other words, have competent for any questions that ask for your assessment of future events/obstacles that may impact your industry/field.

Above anything else, present yourself as informed and competent.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thanks so much PP.

[Anonymous]

It depends on the type of position, so it is difficult to generalize.

The latest fashion is the structured interview FS style. A set number of questions and "What would you do if?" scenarios. The interviewer(s) give younthe rules of the game, and you follow it (big deal in govt). Not difficult, but impossible to steer and take control. You can ask questions and have a conversation later.

As always, YMMV.