Feeling nervous about your upcoming interview? Not sure how to prepare for competency-based questions?

We understand that attending an interview can feel intimidating - but you're not alone. This page will provide you with the guidance, resources, and answers you need to approach your interview with confidence. And if you have any additional questions, our team is always here to support you - just reach out directly.

Competency Questions

Practice Your Answers

The STAR Method

Quick Win Checklist

Competency-based Interviewing

We use competency-based interviews to get a clear picture of how your past experiences align with the requirements of the role. These interviews focus on real-life situations you've handled - what you did, how you did it, and what the outcome was. Typical questions will look like:

"Tell me about a time when..."
"Describe a situation where…”

Every job ad will list the relevant competencies and levels, making it easier for you to find the right sample questions. 

Practicing Your Answers

  • Choose specific examples from your experience that highlight your impact. Write out the situation, your actions, and the results.
  • Practice saying your answers aloud to build confidence and recall.
  • Record yourself and listen back to identify areas where you can improve clarity, tone, or pacing.
  • Practice with a friend or family member to get used to answering questions and get helpful feedback.
  • Keep responses concise and focused, aiming to clearly show your contribution.
  • Expect follow-up questions, so be ready to expand on key points.

The STAR Method

The STAR method helps you structure interview answers clearly and effectively, ensuring you cover key details and show how your experience matches what employers are looking for.


Situation

Briefly introduce the context or background to the example. 


Task

Describe your responsibility. What were the challenges, issues or deadlines?

A


Action

Explain what actions you took. Be clear and direct. Avoid vague words like 'would have' or 'should have’.

 

Result

Share the outcome. Was there any feedback or key metrics that show the success from your actions?

Quick Win Checklist  

  • Dress smartly, aim to be well presented and professional
  • Know the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
  • Prepare 2-3 examples for each key competency
  • Practice answers out loud, keeping them concise
  • Review the job description
  • Know the time, place and format if your interview is in person
  • If your interview is online, make sure that your internet, device, and Teams app are all working well.

Support Articles

Your guide to in-person interviews at Bank of Ireland

Your guide to virtual interviews

Job Search Success: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Keep up to date with Job Alerts

View all jobs

Bank of Ireland is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. In the UK, Bank of Ireland is authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland and the Prudential Regulation Authority and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request. By proceeding any further you will be deemed to have read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Statement.

©2025 Bank of Ireland