How long should my answer to a behavioral (STAR) interview question be? Can I speak for more than 5 minutes, particularly when told by the interviewer that I have 10 minutes?

There's no way I'll put you in front of a senior Stakeholder if you can't deliver a short, relevant example of your work. They don't have time for a lengthy monologue.

I've interviewed over 10,000 people.

If someone spent 10 minutes answering a question they'd never get the job. We dont have time for that. The interview is 50–60 minutes not 2 hours.

Heres the breakdown for you.

S - Less than 10 seconds - what, why, who was involved.

T - less than 10 seconds - I had to…(x yz)

A - 60 - 80 seconds depending on the situation…be clear and concise. THIS is the area you score the most points. Yes, there's a points system, usually 0-5.

R - 10 seconds - wrap up with a positive outcome.

Overall -

1 minute is too fast. I want to hear your presentation skills. I cant do this if you're rushing.

2 minutes is good. I don't get bored and you stay more precise.

5 minutes and we're done here. There's no way I'll put you in front of a senior Stakeholder if you can't deliver a short, relevant example of your work. They don't have time for a lengthy monologue.