What are the best ways to answer open-ended interview questions in Personal Development?

Open ended questions are rough I believe the key in answering is contextualising and highlighting possible solutions to possible problems. I mean it’s open ended, be creative, come up with multiple possible variations to one problem and answer to those. Primarily, it’s the best time to display understanding of scope, field and industry. Secondarily would be expressing creativity, versatility and interest in role. Nobody is going to think twice about possible situations in a job you hate or have no interest in. Most importantly, be yourself, you don’t want to have to put up a front daily. “You get what you tolerate.” Don’t forget to check the interviewers intent! Are they looking to fill a spot or find a good fit for the team?

Personally, I like the CARL method better -Context, Action, Result, Takeaways or STAR(T) where you add a T for takeaways. Takeaways in either method is-what did you learn and what could you do better next time? No project is executed flawlessly. There are always learnings that you can apply to the next project. After explaining the takeaways, then give one sentence on how you applied it to the next project or how you’ve used that knowledge in every future project. This shows self awareness, personal development, and growth.

Understand: Grasp the question's essence and seek clarification if needed. Structure: Introduce, organize, and use the STAR method for impactful answers. Examples: Support points with specific examples and anecdotes. Self-Awareness: Discuss strengths, areas for improvement, and moments of growth. Role Connection: Relate personal development to the job requirements. Adaptability: Illustrate how you embrace change and learn from experiences. Genuine: Be authentic, discussing setbacks and lessons learned. Growth Mindset: Emphasize a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Future Goals: Connect personal development to future aspirations. Active Listening: Tailor responses based on nuanced understanding.

Open ended questions can trip up the most seasoned veteran. To effectively answer them, be concise with the information you share, and ensure that every word is adding value.

No one likes to listen to someone ramble. Be aware if you find yourself rambling to answer a question, and quickly bring it back to 'the point' of the story.

You are the hero of your own story. If you have trouble seeing the positive in certain situations, practice telling your story to a friend and have them repeat back what they heard. Often you can better conceptualize your positive role in a story if you separate yourself from it.

Every person should have 2-3 stories that they can perfectly articulate. Find what those stories are for you and practice telling them with your friends at a social event or dinner.

Confieso que los momentos de preguntas y respuestas siempre me generan algo de "vértigo", sin embargo, la autenticidad se convierte en nuestro aliado más valioso. Una pregunta muy común es sobre los desafíos o retos que se nos han presentado. En lugar de jugar a ser el héroe, deja ver tu vulnerabilidad y habla del aprendizaje que obtuviste de esa experiencia. Incluso, si fue un reto que no superaste, como es que ha modelado tu carácter para afrontar nuevos desafíos. Los seres humanos somos eso "humanos" y creamos conexiones más profundas desde la vulnerabilidad y la autenticidad. En un mundo de respuestas ensayadas y perfectas, ser autentico destaca. La honestidad y positividad enriquecen construyendo un perfil real y memorable.