I received this email asking about job interviews yesterday.
Good morning, Dan,
Love your blog! Could you provide some guidance or insight on how to effectively answer interview questions? I know everyone’s answers will differ greatly but what would be some sticking points that would make one stand out above the competition?
Thanks in advance, -Frank 🙂
Stand Out During Job Interview
Dear Frank,
Thanks for a great question. Job interviews are tough. Here’s how to stand out.
#1. Answer the Question Behind the Question
Interviewers wonder, “Can I trust you with this role?” Go beyond answers. Provide evidence.
- Show self-awareness: admit a past mistake and what you learned.
- Show initiative: describe how you made things better, not just how you did your job.
- Show value: connect your action to team or company results.
Begin by saying what you did. Stand out by explaining how you made things better for others.
#2. Ignore What Momma Said
“Don’t answer a question with a question.” Smart people clarify before they respond. For example, “Tell me about yourself.” Answer skillfully by saying, “I want to respect your time. What part of my story would be most useful?”
If you want to try humor, begin with, “That’s a long story.”
#3. Invite Conversation
Don’t simply answer, engage. Demonstrate confidence and curiosity during job interviews by turning questions into conversations.
When asked, “Tell me about a weakness,” finish with a question: “I’m curious, how does your team support people in growing new skills?”
#4. Keep the Three-C Rule in Mind
Anchor answers to Character, Competence, and Contribution.
- Character: What do you stand for?
- Competence: What can you do well?
- Contribution: How do others benefit when you show up?
Go beyond selling competence. Sell contribution.
#5. Tell Stories
Anyone can say, “I’m a team player.” Tell a short story that proves it. (One minute or less)
Choose short stories that demonstrate:
- A problem you solved.
- A person you helped.
- A mistake you fixed.
Storytelling Tip: A point of tension or conflict makes stories interesting.
On a Personal Note
I’ve conducted scores of job interviews. I wondered what it would be like to work with a person. Are they open, relaxed, confident? Will they fit in?
If you want to stand out, study the organization. Learn the culture. Know their values.
Don’t say it. Show it.
Interviews aren’t about impressing; they’re about revealing who you are.
The best answers make people think, “I trust this person.”
How can people stand out during job interviews?
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