I missed last week and am very sorry. I am currently working on multiple projects that are taking up a lot of time and last week just flew by. Hey none of us are perfect but I’m excited to be back this week with what I hope is a helpful issue.

I’d love to answer your question or discuss a topic you’d like in an upcoming issue. Submit any questions you’d like me to discuss here.

Standing out on a Job Interview

A few weeks back I made this video on TikTok about actually standing out on a job interview, without the hacks or secrets or magic questions people love to try to sell you.

Today I wanted to dig in even further on 4 things you can keep in mind on an interview to try to stand out that go beyond the advice you’ll usually get like “research the company” or “ask good questions”

So here are 4 things to me that I notice candidates doing- assuming of course they have all passed through the 1st most important step which is being qualified for the job. There really is no overcoming that if you don’t do it.

1. Articulating Your Strongest Skills

One of the keys to acing any job interview is to be able to identify and articulate your strongest skills clearly and confidently. Many candidates tend to list their skills, but few can pinpoint the ones that truly set them apart. Take some time before your interview to reflect on your skills and achievements. What have you consistently excelled at in your previous roles? These are your strongest skills, and they should be the star players in your interview. When you can discuss them in-depth and provide concrete examples of how you've applied them, you'll leave a lasting impression.

Remember, if you’re not bragging about yourself, someone else is.

2. Having Real Opinions

Don't be afraid to have real opinions during your interview. Far too often, candidates play it safe, fearing that taking a strong stance might rub the interviewer the wrong way. (and it may, but that also means maybe it wasn’t the job for you)

However, having genuine opinions, especially on best practices within your industry, can set you apart. Of course, you should always be respectful and open to other perspectives, but showing that you've thought deeply about your field and have the courage to express your views can make you a memorable candidate.

3. Showcasing Your Favorite Projects

While it's crucial to talk about your professional experience, it's equally important to share your passion. One way to do this is by discussing your favorite projects. These are the ones that genuinely excited you, where you felt you were making a significant impact, or where you learned the most. When you speak about these projects, your enthusiasm will shine through. I love when I talk with a candidate and can see their eyes light up when they discuss something…just as I hope they see that in me when I tell them good things about the company.

I know work is not your life and I’d never say that it should be, but if you do have to work (which we all do) there’s nothing wrong with having some pride in what you’ve done.

4. Knowing Your Priorities

Finally, be clear about what matters to you in your job search. Candidates often focus solely on impressing the interviewer, but remember the cliche, I hate saying but is always true, the interview is a two-way street.

You're also evaluating whether the company aligns with your values and priorities. Before the interview, make a list of what matters most to you in a new job. Is it work-life balance, career growth, a supportive team, or something else that resonates with you? When you ask thoughtful questions about these aspects, it demonstrates that you're not just looking for any job; you're looking for the right job for you.

I do a lot of job interviews, and standing out in a job interview goes beyond rehearsed answers and polished resumes. It's about articulating your strengths, sharing your opinions, showcasing your passion, and knowing what truly matters to you and being able to relate how that impacts the job and company you’re interviewing for.