Background
In 1973 psychologist David McClelland argued for testing competence rather than intelligence, which led to the behavioral event interview. Competency-based interviews apply this to hiring and usually follow a structured interview format.
Questions and answers
Interviewers ask, for example, about changing a process to get results or persuading a teammate, then probe what you personally did. Korean public institutions often use NCS basic competencies. Answer with the STAR method, keeping situation brief and action specific.
FAQ
- Is a team project enough?
- Yes, if you separate your own role and actions.
- No work experience?
- Part-time jobs, clubs or coursework can show competencies.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- McClelland, D. C. (1973). Testing for competence rather than for "intelligence". American Psychologist, 28(1), 1–14.
- NCS 국가직무능력표준 블라인드 채용 안내. https://www.ncs.go.kr
- Spencer, L. M., & Spencer, S. M. (1993). Competence at Work. Wiley.
