Scoring an interview for that job posting you’ve had your eye on is a great feeling. While your resume is getting you through the doors, there are many other factors to consider as you prepare yourself for the big day. With a competitive job market and dozens of other hopeful candidates, being able to stand out is a must. Whether you’ve gone through the interview process a number of times, or you’re just starting out, here are a few fool-proof ways to stand out at your next interview.
Talk to Everyone
Never underestimate the power of being able to engage in conversation. As you walk into the new office building you hope to call your own, make an attempt to talk to and acknowledge every person you encounter. Treat the secretary at the front desk with the exact same respect and kindness as you would the individual who is conducting your interview. Many employers make it a point to ask other workers about their first impression, which is why it’s important to maintain the same enthusiasm with everyone. A talkative person will stand out more than those who remain quiet or aloof.
Bring a Thank You
Thank you letters used to be an interview staple and have since died down in popularity. Though keeping a thank you letter in your pocket might seem a bit old school at first, it will definitely make you stand apart from the other candidates. If you’re looking to make your first impression memorable, write up a simple note expressing your appreciation for the opportunity the company gave you and leave it with the front desk on your way out. Writing the letter will make you instantly unforgettable, and will set you apart from every candidate who did not take the time to write a thank you.
Dress to Impress
There have been many discussions as to whether or not your clothing helps you stand out for an interview, or even if what you wear can actually determine whether or not you land the job. While it’s hard to deny that physical appearance does play at least a small factor in the interview process, don’t let picking out what to wear cause you stress. Simply dressing in a subtle, professional way that fits the tone of the company is enough to make you stand out in an understated way. You can always go bold with some colorful accessories and ties, or play it safe with a name brand outfit. Try a comfortable Lularoe look to get the best of both worlds for less by shopping with online store thredUP. What better way to dress to impress than by turning your thrifted finds into professional looks.
Do the Research
You’d be surprised how many candidates show up to the interview having done little to no research about the company itself. Nowadays, doing your research is enough to set you miles apart from everyone else. As you prep for the upcoming questions be sure to research the company’s website, online reviews, and especially their mission statement. When asked to describe yourself in the interview, try to use vocabulary that aligns with the company’s values. Use the research you’ve done to your advantage by helping the employer see how you are similar to what their corporation holds in high esteem.
Ask Questions
When it comes time for the end of the interview, be sure to have specific and thought-provoking questions to ask. The key to asking questions at the end of the interview is to be sure that what you’re asking is something you are genuinely interested in. Good interviewers will know when you’re simply asking a question for the sake of asking it, so don’t ask about something that seems fluffy. If you truly want to stand out from other candidates, feel out the interviewer for the opportunity to ask questions that might be a bit bolder than most. From benefits and salary inquiries to simply asking about the company culture, having thoughtful things to ask is an absolute must.
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