Ask Vicki: How can I set myself apart from the competition in a job interview?

Vicki Salemi

Each week, Monster’s career expert Vicki Salemi—a former recruiter who utilizes 15-plus years of experience in recruiting and human resources to empower job seekers—answers user questions on Quora. We’ll be republishing the answers here. If you have a question for Vicki, send it to socialmedia@monster.com.

Q. How can I set myself apart from the competition in a job interview?

A. There are a few things to say in a job interview that can help you stand apart from other candidates, but the reality is, it’s not so much what you say but how you say it.

When I worked in corporate recruiting, I would see candidates with nearly identical resumes and experience. I was always curious how the hiring team ultimately made their decision, given the similarities between the candidates.

“We liked this person better,” the hiring team would often tell me. The person who got the job was ultimately the person who had better soft skills. They fit in better with the group, established rapport, and also demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for the role.

So in addition to explaining how you can benefit an interviewer’s company, be sure to be friendly and enthusiastic, and look to make a connection on a human level.

Looking for more expert advice? Join Monster today. As a member, you'll get career advice and useful tips sent directly to your inbox to help you craft your resume, ace the interview, negotiate the offer, and much more. 

Read Vicki Salemi's answer to "How can I set myself apart from the competition in a job interview?" on Quora.