How to stand out in an interview

4. Show how you can add value to the company

To really stand out in an interview it’s crucial to show an employer how you can add tangible value to the company.

Avoid generic answers to questions when describing previous roles, but instead, talk about real examples and specific results you’ve achieved in these roles.

Describe how you previously made a positive impact on a company and give statistics and results to support your answers, whether this is how many social media followers you grew a platform to, strategies you implemented to save a company money.

If you’ve just graduated, mention any projects or events you worked on in University and how you boosted results.

Describing a previous case study of your work with detailed examples and measurable results provides employers with a convincing and credible reason to hire you.

5. Display the correct body language

An interviewer will gather their first impression of you after a few seconds of meeting you. Displaying the right body language and proper posture is key to making a great first impression.

Whilst you may be feeling nervous, especially if it is your first graduate interview, try to control your nerves and walk in looking confident and happy to be there.

Maintain eye contact and sit up straight whilst giving your answers, you could be speaking about a fantastic idea but if you’re slumped in your chair when delivering, it won’t have the same impact.

Limit anything that could distract the interviewer from what you’re saying, such as tapping your feet, touching your face, or fidgeting. Instead, smile and showcase your personality, nod and show signs that you’re listening and interested in what the interviewer is saying.

Creating a confident, happy, and polite first impression, showing that you’re interested and focused on the conversation throughout the interview and leaving with a grateful and appreciative goodbye is key to impressing an employer.

6. Show you’re excited and genuinely passionate about the opportunity

Companies want to hire people who are eager to work for them, so it’s crucial to express enthusiasm throughout an interview.

This is especially important if you’re lacking in work experience, as showing a genuine interest can sometimes override experience, with most employers valuing drive and passion highly.

In your answers, mention any aspects of the role and company which particularly excite you and ask questions to find out more information, and further show your interest.

If you’re looking to gain more work experience, taking part in a free online course is a great way to learn new skills, check out our blog for a range of free online courses for students and graduates.

7. Ask the employer engaging and challenging questions

An employer will most likely ask at the end of the interview if you have any questions for them.

It’s important to make sure you’re asking engaging and challenging questions throughout the interview and when asked by the employer.

Asking questions is an excellent opportunity to sell yourself and set yourself apart from other candidates.

Avoid asking generic questions, but ask different questions an employer may not have been asked before.

For example, how any relevant issues are impacting the business: ‘how is the current (relevant issue) impacting the strategy of your business?’, or ‘how is the current economic climate affecting your client base/growth prospects/revenue streams?’

Asking multiple questions also shows an employer you’re selective in your job search and know what you want, not just the first job that comes your way.

Employers want candidates who have applied to their role because they’re genuinely interested in the company and role.

Ask questions about the company culture, any training opportunities, benefits, the team you’ll be working within, and how the interviewer has found their time at the company.

This demonstrates to an employer you’re interested in seeing if the role and the company culture are a good fit for you.

8. Follow up with a thank you email

A great way to leave a lasting impression on an employer is to send a ‘thank you’ email thanking them for their time and reaffirming your interest in the position.

This lets an employer know that you’re still interested, demonstrates you’re grateful for the opportunity, and helps to keep you fresh in the interviewer’s mind.

It’s a good idea to send a thank you email the day after your interview, if you’re unsure what content to include, we’ve put together an interview follow up email template.