When you are interviewing for a job, it is important to be able to answer the question: “What sets you apart from other candidates?” This question is designed to show how you are different from the competition and can be a crucial moment in your interview. To make sure you are prepared, this blog will provide guidance on how to answer this question. We will cover everything from preparing detailed information about yourself to emphasizing your unique strengths and skills, to practising and rehearsing your answers. By the end of this post, you will be ready to confidently answer the question and stand out from the rest.
How To Answer “What Sets You Apart From Other Candidates” In An Interview
When asked “What sets you apart from other candidates” in an interview, it’s important to highlight your unique skills, experiences, and accomplishments that make you the best fit for the job. Here are a few tips on how to answer this question and some examples of what you could say:
- Focus on your unique skills and strengths: Think about the skills and strengths that you have that are relevant to the job and that set you apart from other candidates. For example, you might say: “I have strong analytical skills and a proven track record of using data to drive decision-making. In my previous role, I led a project that resulted in a 15% increase in efficiency by analyzing and streamlining processes.”
- Highlight your relevant experience: Emphasize any relevant experience you have that sets you apart from other candidates. For example, you might say: “I have five years of experience in the healthcare industry, including experience working in both clinical and administrative roles. This has given me a unique perspective and a broad range of skills that I believe would be valuable in this role.”
- Share your accomplishments: Share any notable accomplishments or achievements that demonstrate your skills and capabilities. For example, you might say: “I was recognized as Employee of the Year in my previous role for my contributions to the company’s success. I was able to exceed my sales targets by 25% and played a key role in developing a new product that generated over $1 million in revenue.”
- Show your passion and enthusiasm: Be enthusiastic and show your passion for the job and the company. For example, you might say: “I am extremely passionate about the work that [Company] does and I believe that my skills and experience make me an ideal fit for this role. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of the company and make a positive impact.”
Overall, the key is to highlight your unique skills, experiences, and accomplishments and show how they make you the best fit for the job.
Examples of Answers to This Interview Question
Here are a few examples of how you might answer the interview question “What sets you apart from other candidates”:
Example 1
“I have a unique combination of technical skills and customer service experience. I have a degree in computer science and have worked as a software engineer for the past five years, but I also have experience working in customer service and am skilled at building and maintaining relationships with clients. I believe this combination of skills makes me well-suited for this role, where I can use my technical expertise to solve problems and my customer service skills to ensure a positive experience for our clients.”
Example 2
“I have a strong track record of success in sales and have consistently exceeded my targets. In my previous role, I was the top performer in my team and was recognized with several awards for my achievements. I have a deep understanding of the sales process and am skilled at building relationships and closing deals. I believe these skills set me apart from other candidates and make me an ideal fit for this role.”
Example 3
“I have a diverse range of experience in different industries, which has given me a unique perspective and a broad range of skills. I have worked in both the public and private sectors, and have experience in marketing, finance, and project management. I believe this diverse background sets me apart from other candidates and makes me well-suited for this role, where I can bring a fresh perspective and a wide range of skills to the table.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to answer the question “What sets you apart from other candidates?” in an interview can help you stand out and make a good impression on your potential employers. Make sure, to be honest, be genuine in your responses, highlight any unique skills or background that is not shared by other applicants, and focus on what makes you special. With the right approach and attitude towards this particular question, you will surely gain the upper hand when it comes to interviews!
