How to Stand Out in an Interview
Interviews are stressful. You have minutes to impress a complete stranger by answering questions you haven’t seen in a way that proves you’re worth hiring over anyone else. Crafting answers on the spot is difficult for anyone, especially when it's your future on the line. A job description, cover letter, application and resume can tell one story, but the interview process is the most personal and unique component to any endeavor.
Shake the interviewer's hand when you enter the room. Even if you have exchanged emails or talked on the phone, you want to establish a professional rapport with your potential employer. Make eye contact, smile, present a firm (but not too hard) handshake and introduce yourself . “Hello my name is X, it is a pleasure to meet you.”
Be friendly. If there is any gap in time between introductions and the first question of the interview, try and make small talk. Commenting on the weather, complimenting the office space, or any note of appreciation to the interviewer (s) in the room is an easy way to break the ice. The more disarmed and comfortable you are, the more comfortable they will too. The energy you bring into the space can set the tone.
Show Not Tell. Your resume and cover letter should tell your basic stats. Only you can communicate the how and why behind those accomplishments. Other candidates may be able to do the same things, but you want to be clear about why your method and unique approach is what separates you from the rest.
Present Yourself as a Solution. Companies and organizations face challenges all the time. Whether the issue is general across the field, or specific to a department, they will need problem solvers. It may not be listed on the job description, but the ability to find and implement solutions is a skill that if presented properly, can make you the right fit for any opportunity.
Leave a Thank You Note. A simple card to the organization or the interviewer thanking them for their consideration and the opportunity to take the next step in your career is a great leave behind that shows you value the position.
An interview is your chance to stand out. You want to be the candidate that interviewers can’t get off their minds, and the one that provides something no one else could. The interview X factor can be elusive, but there are some tried and true techniques that will make sure you’re remembered for all the right reasons.
