6 successful ways to stand out from other candidates

“Why did they hire him, not me? What did I miss? I have the required experience, qualifications, education…I don’t understand what happened!” Probably, these words are uttered quite often by people who did not manage to win their place in the company where they applied for a job. But having the perfect CV is not enough anymore to get the attention of the interviewer and the company because these people have read hundreds of wonderful resumes and they continue reading every day. The only option that remains is to impress them at the first interview. In this article, we’ll present you with 6 successful ways to stand out from other candidates as well as the opinion of BAB Consult’s recruitment specialists on the topic, who talk to candidates every day and know very well what those things are that can convince the interviewer that you are the one for them.

1. “Interested is interesting” - research where you’re going

Let’s think of a job interview as a first date. You go on a first date when you know that the other person is interested in you and you’re interested in them. You have done your “preliminary research” about them on social networks: how old is he, where is he from, where did he study and what are his interests. And when the moment of the first date comes you’re ready to impress the person opposite you with the fact that you have shown interest in him and, above all, that you have thought about him. Now, let's go back to the job interview, about which we tend to make the same claim. The more you are interested in the company you want to work for, you have researched who they are, where their office is located, the industry they operate in, their social media profiles, you have read an article about them, you have looked at their website...and you share that at the interview, the more you will impress the interviewers. Another useful idea we can give you is - while you are researching them, to make a list of keywords that they often use. These keywords will help you gain an idea firstly - about their industry, secondly - about themselves - what is their brand tone of voice. "Interested is interesting" - don't forget that!

2. Develop your personal brand

Maybe you already know what we’re going to tell you, but we still want to remind you - HR managers review your social network profiles in detail (especially LinkedIn). Therefore the better you look, the more attractive you will be to interviewers. After all, you know yourself best, so who better to promote you than yourself?

Determine your USP (Unique selling points), that is: what are those skills and qualities that you possess that would make you the ideal candidate? Then, using your USPs, write a short introduction about yourself everywhere - in your online profiles and in your CV for example. This will serve as an advertisement for you and a reason for HR managers to continue reading.

Secondly, be active on social networks, especially on LinkedIn. Make sure you fill out all the fields like “experience”, “education” and “skills” in detail and clearly so that they present you at your best.

Engage with other people in the industry you want to work in. (this will bring you only pluses - at the same time you build your personal brand in the digital space, learn something new and create new contacts)

3. You already work there!

Be dedicated like you already work there! Think about what tasks you would have to perform, what will be expected of you in the first 3 months, what qualities would be suitable for this position, and whether you possess them. Develop a plan in your mind and don't be afraid to share it at the interview. Dedication is highly valued and impressive!

Start showing your best qualities from day one. If the interviewer sets you a task that can be a presentation on a certain topic - invest as much time as possible in it, and try as if you are presenting to a client. In this way, you will demonstrate professionalism, public speaking skills, creativity (by offering new and interesting ideas), and design skills (the vision of the presentation). If you've put in enough time and effort, trust us, you'll get noticed.

4. Dress appropriately 

Here, the emphasis is on “appropriately”. Clothing, as cliché as it sounds, is one of the key factors when appearing for an interview. Clothes play the role of your representative before you start speaking and create the first impression, which is extremely important. Let's note that sparkling colors like pink or orange for example are not suitable. Aim for calmer and more neutral tones, such as grey, brown, beige, navy blue, white or black. These colors speak of the presence of professionalism, self-confidence, good style, as well as respect for the company and the very interview to which you were invited. Universal clothing can be a shirt\blouse+jeans\trousers, and ladies can also wear a dress or skirt, but not too short and with a normal neckline. The make-up should be simple, and the perfume should be unobtrusive.

This was an example of applying for a job in the corporate field. Dress codes vary by company, industry, and location, and this is further proof that researching the company beforehand is of the utmost importance.

5. You’re never too good for training

If you think that you’re good enough for the position and you have nothing more to learn… (Congratulations! You have not been accepted for the role. :))

There is always something new to learn!  

If the company offers training, don’t reject it, on the contrary - take advantage!

In this way, you will show the interviewer that you are inquisitive, and always ready to develop and improve, and the employer could notice during the training that you really are qualified for the position.

6. Show that you’re motivated to work on your weaknesses

"Can you name three of your weakest traits?"

This is a question that tests how sincere you can be. It is important to be fully aware of your capabilities and not to be afraid to share what your weak point is. Otherwise, two scenarios can play out - the first is that you claim you have no weaknesses, but the interviewer doesn't believe you and you make a bad impression. The second is the one in which the interviewer decides to trust what was said, but in the process of work, everything hidden comes to light, which will again be to your great disadvantage. We advise you to be honest during the interview. Admit to the managers and to yourself what your weak points are and be ready to work on improving them. In this way, you demonstrate a growth mindset, motivation, as well as the ability to self-evaluate.

We asked the Recruitment specialists of BAB Consult: "What distinguishes one candidate from the rest?". We would like to share their answers with you, as well as the advice they have prepared for you. As recruitment professionals, we value good preparation before any interview and are ready to help candidates turn their insecurities into confidence.

“What I would like to advise all candidates:

 When it comes to searching for a job, applying, and interviewing, it’s good to be prepared. Spend time researching the company, be ready to talk about your experience, and present and promote yourself. We all agree it is essential to be well-received and make a positive first impression.

I believe you should focus on having a well-written CV (Resume), and my personal advice is to use a Cover letter. Good preparation pays off. 

It all depends on what position you are applying for but showing interest, good manners, and soft and communication skills are a plus for all fields and industries.

Always be on time for an online or in-person meeting, and dress to impress.

In addition, you’re more likely to win over recruiters, managers, and team leads if you give your best! And after the interview it would be best if you follow up by email to show interest and professionalism.

 Please accept that as friendly advice from a Tech Lead and Recruiter that was previously an HR Manager.“

- Desi Spasova, Team Lead Tech Recruitment

“Being natural. Don't be someone you are not supposed to be. Pretending to be a victim or someone more skilled is not a way to leave a good first impression. In the end, the truth always comes up. Being natural can show how honest you are in a certain situation.

Support your skills by giving examples of how you gained them (professional or personal experience). It can prove that you didn't copy the first article on google for "best skills to include in my CV”. Be positive and smile. It is true that the HR or the person who interviews you will have better thoughts on your candidacy when you are positive during the interview. If the situation allows it, you can even use your sense of humor.”

- Ramona Arabadzhieva, Recruitment Executive

“For me, a good candidate is important, to be honest. Not to exaggerate and overexpose of work situations, whether they have positive or negative consequences. I consider it proper that he be well prepared and confident in the actions he\she has taken. No one likes a hesitant character and the inability to make decisions.

During the interview itself, a smile and a friendly attitude make a good impression. Desire is also known by communication. Asking questions by candidates is not taboo, questions should be asked, but let them be consistent with the natural flow of the discussion.”

- Joana Negrova, Team Lead BPO Recruiting

If you’d like to learn more about the successful interview, read our article “Keys to a successful interview” and don’t forget to check our open position