Stand Out in Your Next Interview

We've all been there: the nerves, the sweaty palms, the butterflies in your stomach. And what do we do to calm our nerves and make a good impression? We fall back on the tried-and-true generic phrases that we've all heard time and time again: 'I'm passionate', 'I'm a team player', 'I learn fast.' Yawn.

The problem with these cliches is not only that they're overused—they're also completely unoriginal. And, frankly, devoid of much valuable meaning on their own. They offer no insight into who you are as a candidate, your unique skills, or what sets you apart from the rest of the pack.

So, what can you do to stand out from the herd of indistinguishable interviewees? Simple: show, don't tell. Don't just say you're passionate; demonstrate it. Instead of claiming to be a team player, provide concrete evidence and examples of your collaboration skills. And instead of just stating that you're a fast learner who catches on quick, share a personal story of your impressive growth and perseverance, like that time you learned a new coding language on the side just to help out with another department's automation (if your boss loved it, go ahead and mention that part, too).

So, let's break down how to stand out in your interview by reviewing some of the most common things we're all guilty of saying in interviews—and what to do instead.

How to Stand Out in Your Job Interview

"I'm a fast learner."

A great attitude to have but, how do you prove it? Share a personal story of growth and perseverance. For example, recount how you went from being the newest junior dev to getting to build your own idea for a project from the ground up in a year.

Try to showcase skills like determination and work ethic, while also highlighting your ability to adapt and learn new skills. Your responses should paint a picture of how and why you'd be an asset to a team.

"I'm a team player."

Ah, the bane of every hiring manager's existence. The phrase that's been severely overused, possibly to the point of incurring annoyance. But, yes—it's also a crucial soft skill for many roles in the tech industry. The question is, how can you prove it?

Once again, by providing concrete evidence, this time of your collaboration skills. For instance, mention a situation when you volunteered to take on a project so a coworker could focus on a more pressing matter. That shows your ability to work well with others, but also highlights your flexibility and willingness to go above and beyond.

"I'm passionate."

A statement that we've all heard countless times, but what does it really mean? If you really want to showcase your passion, go beyond just saying the words. Offer a specific example of your interest in the company.

For instance, if you're applying for a job in the tech industry, show that you've taken the time to familiarize yourself with the company. Dig deep into the website, maybe present your thoughts on a recent intel report they released. This not only demonstrates your passion, but it also shows strong initiative and attention to detail.

The Bottom Line

If you want to make a lasting impression during your job interview, don't rely on generic phrases. Hiring managers are looking for proof that you can do the job, not just your word. So, put your money where your mouth is and show them what you've got. Stand out from the crowd, and make a lasting impact in your next job interview.