How to Stand Out in Interviews
If you're actively job hunting, you’ve probably wondered how you can distinguish yourself from the other applicants.
Whether you're meeting with a recruiter or interviewing directly with a potential employer, the key to making a lasting impression is preparation, presence, and purpose.
Our recruitment team has interviewed hundreds of candidates, and the ones who stand out aren't necessarily the ones with the most experience. They're the ones who show up prepared, curious, and genuinely aligned with the company’s mission. If you're looking for actionable interview tips and career advice, start with these four proven strategies.
🔍 1. Research the Company Ahead of Time 🔍
One of the most common mistakes candidates make is not researching the company they’re interviewing with. This isn't just about knowing what the company does, it’s about understanding their values, current projects, and goals.
Why this matters- When you understand the company’s mission, core values, recent news or projects, and its position within the industry, you show the interviewer that you're genuinely interested, and that you aren’t just applying blindly to every open role.
Pro Tip- Check the company's website, browse their LinkedIn page, and scan recent press releases or blog posts. Come to the interview ready to mention a specific project or value that resonates with you.
❓ 2. Ask Insightful Questions ❓
Interviews aren’t just about answering questions, they’re about asking them, too. Hiring managers often say the best interviews are conversations, not interrogations.
Why this matters- Asking thoughtful questions shows you're engaged, curious, and serious about the role. It also helps you determine if the company is the right fit for you.
Sample questions to ask:
What does success look like in this role?
How would you describe the team culture?
What are the biggest challenges someone in this position might face?
See more examples of great questions to ask here.
🧩 3. Demonstrate Cultural Fit 🧩
Your resume might get you in the door, but your ability to show how you'd mesh with the company culture can help seal the deal.
Why this matters- Employers want to hire people who can not only do the job, but who will thrive in their work environment. Talking about shared values or work styles can help you connect on a deeper level.
How to do it- Share past experiences that align with the company's mission or culture. For example, if teamwork is a core value, talk about a time you collaborated effectively to achieve a goal.
📧 4. Follow Up with Purpose 📧
Following up after an interview isn’t optional, it’s expected. But there’s a difference between a generic thank-you and a personalized follow-up that leaves an impact.
Why this matters- A thoughtful follow-up email gives you the chance to reiterate your interest, clarify something you forgot to mention, or even answer a question more completely.
What to include-
A sincere thank-you for their time
A mention of something specific you enjoyed discussing
A restatement of your interest in the role and why you're a strong fit
Final Thoughts
Standing out in interviews isn’t about having the flashiest resume or perfect answers, it’s about showing you're prepared, curious, aligned, and genuinely interested. Whether you're early in your job search or deep into the interview process, applying these tips can make all the difference.
For more job hunting tips and strategies, check out these other posts and make sure you’re following us on LinkedIn.