While you can’t predict every exact question in a behavioral interview, you can anticipate the themes. Interviewers typically focus on a core set of behavioral interview topics designed to reveal key professional skills. By preparing stories that align with these common interview themes, you’ll be ready for almost anything.

Here are the most common behavioral interview subjects to prepare for:

1. Teamwork and Collaboration

This is one of the most frequent topics. Employers want to know if you can work well with others, handle disagreements constructively, and contribute to a group effort. Be ready to discuss both successes and challenges.

• Explore specific questions here: Behavioral Questions on Teamwork .

2. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Every job involves overcoming obstacles. These questions assess your ability to analyze complex situations, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.

• Explore specific questions here: Behavioral Questions on Problem-Solving .

3. Leadership and Initiative

Even for non-management roles, employers value initiative. These questions explore your capacity to take ownership, motivate others, and guide projects forward.

• Explore specific questions here: Behavioral Questions on Leadership .

4. Time Management and Prioritization

This topic is all about how you handle your workload. Interviewers want to see that you can manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and stay organized under pressure.

• Explore specific questions here: Behavioral Questions on Time Management .

5. Handling Failure and Feedback

No one is perfect. These questions assess your resilience, self-awareness, and ability to learn from mistakes and constructive criticism. A good answer shows humility and a growth mindset.

To prepare effectively, perform a Self-Assessment for Behavioral Answers  to identify your strongest examples for each of these topics.

This article is part of our series on What Are Behavioral Interview Questions & Why Employers Use Them? .