IREM Certified Property Manager (CPM) Practice Test

Behavioral interview questions are designed to assess how a candidate has handled specific situations in the past, under the assumption that past behavior is a strong predictor of future behavior in similar circumstances. This approach encourages candidates to provide real examples from their previous experiences, which can reveal their skills, decision-making processes, and ability to work under pressure or in teamwork scenarios.

For example, a behavioral question might ask a candidate to describe a time when they faced a significant challenge at work and how they overcame it. The response provides insight into the candidate's problem-solving abilities, resilience, and approach to conflict resolution. This method is effective in evaluating key competencies related to the job, as it moves beyond theoretical responses and taps into actual experiences.

In contrast, hypothetical questions ask candidates to imagine how they would respond to a situation that may not have occurred yet, while situational questions focus on specific scenarios that might arise in the employment context. Closed-ended questions typically require a simple yes/no or one-word answer, limiting the depth of information gathered.