What is the difference between traditional and competency based interviews?
Competency based or behavioural interviews focus on past performance as a predictor of future performance. Research has shown that behavioural interview achieve a higher level of accuracy than traditional interviews.
In a competency based interview, candidates are asked to provide detailed accounts of what they have done, said, thought and felt in situations similar to what they will experience as a designated member of the Appraisal Institute of Canada.
A traditional interview focuses on education, qualifications and credentials. Often responses given address an individual’s opinions and feelings but do not provide information on actual performance on the job or about job experiences or accomplishments. It is difficult for a panel to determine how a person will perform into the future without an idea of what and how they have performed in the past.
How do I apply for the Professional Competency Interview? Is there a fee?
Once you have received written confirmation from the Real Estate Division of the Sauder School of Business, contact your Provincial Association for an Interview Application, and details about the fee, which is set by the Provincial Association Board.
Who will conduct the Interview?
The trained Interview Panel consists of at least 2 individuals and may include up to 4 individuals appointed by your provincial organization and formally trained to carry out competency based interview.
What will be included in the Professional Competency Interview?
Questions will be focused on obtaining information relevant to the defined competencies of designated members of AIC.
Candidates will be asked questions that will enable them to provide detailed accounts of what they have done, said, thought and felt in situations which will be similar to situations they will encounter as a designated AIC Member. Candidates may be asked for more than one example.
For example, instead of asking, “How do you do such and such…?” you would be asked, “Describe a situation when you have …” What were the circumstances? What were your specific actions? What was the result? The Interviewers will take notes during the interviews and may probe for further details when required. Take a look at the Interview Scenario (Link) to see how a sample question is answered.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
No, the Interview panel will have received and reviewed your Applied Experience report, including a resumé of relevant work experience, in advance of the meeting.
What happens when the Interview is over? Will I get my results immediately?
Once the interview is over, you will be asked to leave the room while the panel deliberates, and then invited back to meet with them. Successful candidates will be congratulated by the Panel Chair and provided with information on use of the designation and presentation of your designation certificate. On occasion, the Panel may require additional time to reach a conclusion, in which case you will be excused and advised of an approximate date that you will be contacted with the panel’s decision.
What if I am not successful?
If you were unsuccessful, the Panel Chair will provide you with advice on how to succeed the next time, and when you may return for a second interview.