How to Stand Out in an Interview & Rise Above the Competition

You know you’re a great candidate for the role, but how will you rise above the rest and leave an unforgettable impression? Here are 5 quick tips to help you stand out in an interview and land the job.

1. Use psychology to your advantage

As with any human interaction, many subconscious factors are at play during an interview. Learning to tap into small things our brains pick up on can make you seem more likable, memorable, and qualified in your interviewer’s mind.

• Mirroring the behaviours of your interviewer can help to develop a connection. If they are excitable and use a lot of hand gestures, give the same energy back. If they are serious and calm, keep yourself more subdued and reflective.
• Act confident, even if you don’t feel it at the time. Interviewers focus not only on the answers you give but also on your demeanour. When you come off as confident, authentic, and enthusiastic, you make a much better impression.
• Address your interviewer by name throughout the conversation.

2. Share specifics and numbers

Numbers speak volumes! Giving specific metrics is an incredible way to help you stand out in an interview.

Although I’m sure you have heard this advice before, many out there still haven’t adopted the practice. Keep your focus on your accomplishments, sharing how you overcome specific obstacles. Stories, numbers, and facts are more likely to stick with someone over generic skillsets and duties that many other candidates may share.

For example, if you share stories or impacts about business growth (sales, revenue, profits, etc.) you need to be specific. List the growth amount that you generated over a timeframe: “In my recent role with Company X, I created a marketing plan that helped us better connect with current customers, which resulted in a 25% increase in repeat sales and about $700K in additional annual revenue.”

3. Research and ask questions

Research the company, its mission and values, and get to know its ideal clients and unique business pain points so you can give specific answers.

Asking questions during your interview shows you are engaged and enthusiastic about the position. And asking unique questions can be a great way to help you stand out in an interview.

Possible questions to ask in an interview:

Show interest in your interviewer and gain insights into the company by asking something like, “What brought you to this company and what keeps you here?”

Asking something like, “Why did you bring me in today for this interview?” draws their attention to your strengths and what they first liked about you.

4. Deliver a 30-60-90-day plan

Dig deep into the job description and posting as part of your research, focusing on the outcomes the employer wants to see. How will you adapt to the company and implement change? What would your priorities and goals be?

Demonstrate how you can add value to the business. Showing that you have already done some critical thinking to get your head around the role will help your interviewer picture you within the organization.

Build a potential 30-60-90 plan. You don’t have to deliver it as a formal presentation unless asked, but keep the plan fresh in your head to draw from in your answers. For example: “I noted that your organization is working hard to increase investment in diversity and inclusion. I see this as being a big part of my role as {title} and within the first 30 days on the job, I would…..[fill in with your potential offering and value-add].

5. Finish strong with confidence and thanks

End strong by reiterating your qualifications and summarizing what makes you the perfect fit for the role. Be sure to thank your interviewer for their time and ask if there is any other additional information or documentation they require.

Always inquire about the next steps and when you can expect to hear back. Make a note of the provided timeline. If you haven’t heard back by the given date, follow up! Ask for the interviewer’s contact details before you depart.

Finally, don’t forget to send a thank you note. Email is the most common (and easiest) delivery method. Make sure the note is meaningful, not generic.

On average, every corporate position receives 250 resumes, with four to six applicants being called in for an interview, according to Glassdoor. Going above and beyond to stand out in an interview, make a personal connection, and leave a lasting impression, can be the deciding factor on whether you land the role.

If you found this post helpful, you may also enjoy Executive Level Interview – How to Prepare and Land Your Dream Job.