How to Stand Out in a Job Interview: Beyond the Usual Tips
- Matthew Coppola
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, no matter how experienced you are.
Most people know the basics – arrive on time, dress appropriately, and research the company – but standing out requires more than just ticking the obvious boxes.
Employers aren’t just looking for someone who can do the job; they’re looking for someone who will bring value, fit into the culture, and show genuine motivation.
Preparation is More Than Googling the Company
Many candidates skim the company’s “About Us” page and think they’re prepared. To really stand out:
Research recent news and projects – Be aware of any big announcements, challenges, or achievements. Referencing these in conversation shows genuine interest.
Understand their industry context – Who are their competitors? What’s changing in the market? Bringing in this knowledge demonstrates commercial awareness.
Review the job description line by line – Think about how your past achievements link directly to each requirement.
Tell Stories, Not Just Facts
Interviewers hear the same phrases time and again: “I’m a team player”, “I work well under pressure”. These statements on their own won’t impress. Instead, use specific examples:
Outline the situation.
Explain the action you took.
Highlight the result (ideally with measurable impact). This storytelling method – often called the STAR technique – makes your answers memorable and credible.
Show Enthusiasm Without Overdoing It
Confidence is attractive; arrogance is not. Smile, listen attentively, and engage naturally with your interviewer. It’s also perfectly fine to let your personality shine through – people hire people, not robots.
Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, when asked “Do you have any questions?”, avoid clichés like “What’s the culture like?” Instead, prepare thoughtful queries such as:
“What does success in this role look like in the first six months?”
“How does this role contribute to the company’s bigger goals?”Questions like these show you’re thinking ahead and care about making an impact.
Follow Up
A short thank-you email within 24 hours can reinforce your enthusiasm and professionalism. Keep it concise, reiterate your interest, and perhaps reference something specific from the interview discussion.
Final Thoughts
Standing out in an interview isn’t about having the flashiest suit or the longest list of achievements. It’s about preparation, authenticity, and showing that you can contribute to the company’s success. The candidates who do well are those who go beyond the generic answers and demonstrate both competence and character.
