How to stand out in a job interview

Did you know that on average, 118 applications are made per advertised job, 5 of which are chosen for an interview? In that case, all the more reason to make sure you and your CV are up to scratch to be selected and impress in the interview. The best way to do this is by standing out in a job interview. Here are just a few top tips for standing out in a job interview:

Make time to find the perfect job

Set aside time to make sure you’re looking for the right that suits you and your skillset. Make sure you don’t apply for any old job you see and put extra time into writing a personalised cover letter for each job and making sure your CV is relevant for each. This will help you get to that interview stage and will make sure you seem interested in only that role, even though you may have applied for others.

Know the job and company

This is one of the most important aspects when preparing for a job interview. Make sure you read the job description thoroughly and know exactly what the job is about and what they will expect from you if you were to be given the job. It is also just as important to read up on the company and make sure you know as much about them as you can.

Focus on your strong points over your weaknesses

This may seem obvious but it is easy to get carried away in a job interview and you could be led into talking about what you’re not so good at rather than boasting about what you are. Even when asked the question ‘what are your weaknesses’ although it is good to mention any you have, make sure you turn it into a positive and how you go about building on those weaknesses at the same time.

Practice interview questions

Although you’re not going to be able to know exactly what they will ask you, you can definitely get a good idea if you do some research. There is nothing worse than being asked a question that you can’t answer so always make sure you run through practice interview questions before you go. We have some really helpful interview questions for a wide range of IT skills- view them here.

Dress code

If the dress code isn’t stated on the interview confirmation email/ call or application form- always assume that you should wear a suit or smart office wear. Even if you think it isn’t an overly prestigious role- it doesn’t matter, you must make sure you dress to impress and a suit is a safe and most respected option.

Follow up

The opportunity to stand out doesn’t end when the interview does. If you don’t hear anything. Always make sure you follow up the interview afterwards. This doesn’t make you seem too eager but it makes you look like you are interested in the job.

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