Being a STAR

Long time readers will know I like acronyms. STAR is another good one. It’s typically used by people applying for jobs. STAR lets you frame and tell a story that demonstrates your skills:

• Situation: where does this story take place, what’s the context?
• Task: what were you asked to do?
• Actions: what approach did you take to tackle the task?
• Results: what happened, how successful were you?

This sequence can create a story to convince someone you’re good at something. Whether you apply for a job, pitch some work or are networking, STAR can help you show you’re the right person.

Your viva is coming up. It’s not a job interview, but STAR can still help you to frame the story you tell about your research:

• Situation: why was the area something you wanted to research?
• Task: what were you trying to contribute to your field?
• Actions: how did you do your research?
• Results: what did you find and what does it mean?

STAR is a valuable tool: good for telling stories to others, for framing your research and for reminding you just how good you are.