The P-STAR-R Technique: Adding Preparation and Reflection

The STAR technique is an excellent foundation, but there is an enhanced version known as P-STAR-R that adds two crucial elements to make your responses even more professional and thoughtful.

These additional steps help you better select your examples and demonstrate your ability to learn.

Step P (Prepare): Choosing the best example before you speak

Before you launch into telling your STAR story, take a moment to prepare.

When the interviewer asks you the question, pause briefly (a few seconds) to think about and select the most relevant and powerful example from your experience that demonstrates the requested competency.

Don't jump to the first thing that comes to mind. This step P ensures that you choose the story that best "sells" you for that specific situation.

Step R (Reflection): What did you learn from the experience?

After describing the Result (R) of your STAR story, add a second R for Reflection. This is where you explain what you learned from the experience.

How did the experience impact you, what lessons did you learn about yourself, the process, or how to handle similar situations in the future?

This step demonstrates self-awareness, analytical skills and a continuous growth mindset.

Advantages of this expanded model

Incorporating the P and R steps complements and enhances the standard STAR technique.

Preparation ensures that you use your best examples, while Reflection adds a layer of depth, showing not only what you did, but also what you learned and how you have grown from your experiences.

This projects a more mature and strategic image.

Summary

There is an enhanced version known as P-STAR-R, which adds two crucial elements: Preparation and Reflection. Step "P" (Prepare) involves choosing the best example before you speak.

This step ensures that you select the most relevant and powerful story. The "R" (Reflection) step is added after the Result, and is where you explain what you learned from that experience.

This extended model is advantageous. The Reflection adds a layer of depth, demonstrating not only what you did, but also your self-awareness and capacity for growth.