How can you stand out during a job interview? Discover 5 tips here.
You’ve written an inspiring cover letter, your resume is in tip-top shape, and now you just have to wait. It’s pretty tough. Especially when it comes to that dream job you’ve been searching for for so long. It can suddenly hit you: “Did I really do everything I could?” A recruiter or employer might receive dozens of inspiring cover letters and polished resumes, but they really need to choose yours! How do you stand out? What can you do to really make an impression? Here are some effective ways to truly stand out and make a lasting impression.
Most of the applications recruiters receive consist of an inspiring cover letter accompanied by a well-organized resume. In our other blog posts, you can read about how to write a strong resume and cover letter. However, every now and then there’s an application they simply can’t ignore. In this blog post, we’ll share tips on how to really make your application stand out.
Use creative methods to stand out
1. Create an eye-catching video
It might seem like a hurdle—recruiters rarely receive video submissions—but the candidates who take the plunge are almost always invited for an interview. That’s because a video is much less formal and immediately gives a very personal impression of someone, quite literally. A few requirements go without saying: make sure the video quality, audio, framing, and lighting are all top-notch. Also make sure you look presentable, as does your surroundings, and pay attention to your posture. In that regard, making a video is also very difficult, and unfortunately, we know of examples where the applicant who was ultimately hired was nearly rejected due to the poor quality of the video. You obviously don’t want to stand out in a negative way.
Get to the point in the first few seconds, and make sure the entire video doesn’t exceed a minute and a half. It should really be a pitch that highlights your enthusiasm for this position. It certainly takes a bit of extra work, but it also immediately shows how much you want this job. For example, the best application at Colourful People included a video in which the applicant depicted herself already cycling to her new job. Another example that went over well was someone who opened with a short piano piece they played themselves, which created a “wow” effect as an intro.
You might also want to think outside this new framework, where “it can also be a short video.” Why not a podcast? What could be better than having someone actually sit down for a moment to focus entirely and solely on your story, close their eyes, and just listen? Here, too, keep it short and to the point; explain in no more than two minutes why you’re the ideal candidate.
2. Consider creating a personal website
Perhaps a cover letter, resume, and even that short video are simply too limited to fully showcase who you are. How about a personal website where you have complete freedom? Add a portfolio, references from colleagues, and showcase your expertise in blog posts. Then, all you need to do is include the link to your website in your social media profiles, business cards, and the job applications you send out. Your website will then serve as the landing page for the brand that is “you.”
3. Align with the organization
Take the time to learn about what the company does and apply with an original idea that aligns with the position. Applying for an editor role? Design a magazine about yourself. Or rewrite a beer label if you want to work in marketing for your favorite beer brand. You can find plenty of examples online of people who really thought outside the box and landed a new job as a result.
4. Contact us
Another way to stand out and connect well with an organization is to give them a quick call before your application and ask a few thoughtful questions. You’ll show your interest, and a recruiter or potential employer will have heard your voice right away, giving them a slightly more personal sense of who you are. In fact, recruiters often check LinkedIn right away to see who they’ve just spoken with. Good questions might focus on what’s currently happening within the organization and what the top priorities are for your intended role. In your cover letter, you can then address these current issues, and you’ll immediately have a better sense of whether you even want to apply for this position.
What should you do during the job interview?
1. Start with a strong pitch
Your job interview often begins with a request to briefly introduce yourself. Prepare a compelling pitch that highlights your background, strengths, and motivation for the position. A well-prepared pitch will help you start off confidently and get your key points across.
2. Ask good questions during the job interview
During a job interview, you’ll often have the chance to ask questions yourself. This is an opportunity to show that you’re genuinely interested in the position and the company. Here are some good questions to ask:
- What does a typical workday look like for this position?
- What are the biggest challenges I might face in this role?
- How would you describe the company culture?
Asking thoughtful questions helps you get a better sense of the role and demonstrates your interest.
3. What Not to Say During a Job Interview
It’s important to know what you should avoid during your job interview:
- Avoid making negative comments about previous employers.
- Be specific and avoid vague answers without examples.
- Don’t focus solely on salary and benefits, but on the nature of the role and the organization.
By approaching your job application creatively and with thorough preparation, you’ll increase your chances of success. Whether you choose to submit an innovative video, a personal website, or an original application, make sure you’re well-prepared and present yourself in a positive light.
Keep in mind that no matter how creative you are, many organizations still follow a specific application process. Ultimately, they need to compare all applications, so it’s still a good idea to submit that cover letter and resume. These tips are mainly intended to help you go the extra mile when it’s appropriate for the organization you’re applying to.
Apply in a way that best showcases your talent and suitability for the role, and don’t be afraid to stand out with your originality. With these tips and some solid preparation, you’ll be ready to shine and land that dream job!
With input from Monique Spaansen and Rene Burgler
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