How to Stand Out On a Job Interview

There is a lot of pressure on job-seekers to perform well in a job interview. If you are currently applying for jobs, you may be wondering what you can do to stand out when you go to interviews. Many candidates feel a lot of pressure to put on a "professional" facade. While their is nothing wrong with stepping up your professionalism at a job interview, you shouldn't let that mask what makes you, you. Here are some tips to help you shine your light in a way that will wow the hiring manager and land you your dream job.

Start With Your Resume

Your resume is the first impression the company will get from you! Your resume needs to be on point if you want to stand out to hiring managers and get called for an interview. One way to step up your resume game is to use a resume-building site like Resumelift.com. Also, use these resume writing tips to write a resume that is easy to read and unique.

Dress to Impress

It may not seem fair that your looks will be considered heavily when hiring managers are considering you for the position. While there are laws in place to protect you from racial and gender discrimination, there is no law protecting you if you show up looking like you just rolled out of bed. There is a saying that goes, "Dress for the job you want, not for the job you have." You should always come to the interview dressed one level above the company dress code. Your attire is a great way to showcase your personality. You can use accessories like necklaces, shoes, and ties to stand out. Your unique accessory may even become a conversation piece during your interview.

Be Kind

This may seem like a no-brainer, but when the stress of the interview hits, it can be easy to forget to say please and thank you, especially to front-end people like receptionists. Keep in mind that everyone you come into contact with that day could be your future coworker. You never know who has a say in who gets hired. Keep kindness and cordiality at the top of your priorities and you are sure to make a lasting impression. Remember to smile, don't let your nerves get the best of your positive attitude.

Know the Company and Ask Questions

You'd be surprised at how few candidates do research about the companies they apply for. If you come in armed with knowledge about the companies values, customers, and mission statement, you will have a leg up on the competition. A great way to showcase your knowledge is to say something like this, "I read on your website that you value honesty, hard work, and loyalty. Can you tell me more about this?" This will showcase your knowledge of the company while showing curiosity at the same time. This also opens the door for a two-way conversation, easing the tension and allowing you to be yourself.

Say Thank You

After you have aced your interview, go home and write a thank you note. Send it to your interviewers as soon as possible. Don't wait too long or they may not remember who you are. Your thank you note should be just that; don't try to sell yourself or convince them to hire you. A hand written note can carry a lot of meaning in today's computerized world. This will leave them with a lasting positive impression of you and will probably brighten their day.

If you follow these tips, you are certain to stand out among the competition. It's important to be professional, but kindness, originality, curiosity and a simple thank you will take you far.