I. Introduction
As job seekers, we often hear the importance of “standing out from the crowd” in a competitive job market. One of the most common questions posed during interviews is “what makes you unique?” Employers want to hire individuals who embody qualities that align with the company’s values and who can bring something unique to the table. In this article, we will cover tips and insights to help you craft a personal and compelling answer to the question “what makes you unique” during an interview.
II. Story-Based Approach
During my own interviews, I have experienced the difficulty of answering the question “what makes you unique.” However, I found that incorporating personal experiences into my response helped me stand out from other candidates. For example, I once shared a story about overcoming a fear of public speaking and how this experience taught me the value of perseverance. To come up with your own unique answer, consider personal experiences that have shaped your character or work ethic. Sharing a story can also help build a connection with your interviewer.
To use this approach, think about a specific challenge you have faced and how you overcame it. Consider how this experience has helped you develop unique qualities that are relevant to the job you are interviewing for. For example, overcoming a language barrier may have taught you the value of communication, which would be an asset in any job requiring teamwork or customer service skills.
III. Using the STAR Method
The STAR method, which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, is a framework that can help you structure your answer to the question “what makes you unique.” This approach helps you highlight your unique qualities and experiences in a clear and concise manner.
Begin by describing a specific situation or task that you faced in your previous role. Next, describe the actions you took to address the situation or task. Lastly, explain the results or outcome of your actions. Using this method can give your interviewer a better idea of how you approach challenges and what unique qualities you possess.
For example, you may describe a situation where you had to manage a difficult team member. You can explain the actions you took to address the issue and how it resulted in improved team dynamics. In this way, the STAR method helps you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and leadership abilities.
IV. Thinking Outside the Box
Often, when asked the question “what makes you unique,” we tend to focus on typical qualities such as “hardworking” or “dedicated.” However, it is important to consider unconventional or unorthodox qualities that you possess that make you stand out from other candidates.
Think about skills or experiences that are not typically related to the job you are interviewing for, but that may add value in unexpected ways. For example, knowledge of a foreign language or a unique hobby such as photography may contribute to a diverse and multifaceted workplace culture.
V. Researching Ahead of Time
Lastly, it is important to research the company or role you are interviewing for ahead of time. Understanding the company’s values, mission, and needs can help you tailor your unique qualities to align with the company’s goals.
Researching job descriptions can also help you identify skills or experiences that the company is looking for, allowing you to focus on highlighting those qualities during the interview. By doing so, you demonstrate your interest in the company and the role, while showcasing how you can specifically contribute to the organization.
VI. Conclusion
Answering the question “what makes you unique” during a job interview can be a daunting task. However, by using a story-based approach, the STAR method, thinking outside the box, and researching ahead of time, you can craft a compelling and personal response that highlights your unique qualities and experiences. Remember that your answer should be tailored to the company’s values and goals, and that sharing a personal experience or unique quality can help set you apart from other candidates.
