The Formula to Stand Out at Your Next Interview

Interviews are not all about evaluating aptitude or how well you fit with the company. Like an onion, there are layers to an interview that afford a lasting flavor. There’s the detailed dialogue where you and a potential employer consider qualifications and related ambitions layer, often thought to be the most important. The layer you must dominate is building rapport and leaving an impression that secures an offer. There is a formula to stand out in your following interview, which can be found below.  

Study x Employer = Impressed

Researching a company before your interview is extremely valuable for minimizing pre-interview jitters. Still, additionally, you will be able to relate your skillset, values, and ambitions to the company. Your interviewer will be delighted with your knowledge. Research helps you learn about the company; it helps you better prepare to answer questions & construct great questions of your own for the interviewer. 

Friendly x Banter = Charmed

Small talk in the interview setting is a beneficial tool for forming a bond early on. Friendly banter with your evaluator provides an opportunity to become comfortable with one another before the business talk, offering a good transition into the interview. Small talk is light and casual. Don’t plunge too deep. Consider subjects like the weather, compliment their attire, or share something you learned about the company to ignite a smooth exchange between you two. You aren’t the only one who may have butterflies during the interview; break the ice. 

Relevant x story x narration = Mesmerized 

Interviewers have spoken with oodles of applicants and are often bored. Experiencing a genuine and notable interaction makes their decision-making effortless. Storytelling in your interview is an élite way to be understood and remembered. Consider commonly asked interview questions in preparation and recount them with an applicable story. The narrative should shed light on your career journey or your ability to overcome adversities. Don’t be afraid to narrate in an attention-grabbing way. 

Mindful x listening = Captivated

Active listening in an interview illuminates your ability to focus, giving your interviewer full uninterrupted attention. Active listening guarantees that your answers or follow-up remarks once the interviewer concludes sharing will be thoughtful and touch on the pain points that were addressed.

Superior x nonverbal communication= Dazzled

We often categorize interviews as nerve-wracking and awkward. Still, being aware of your body language despite the nerves is critical. That behavior is alarming if you don’t become machine-like with unresponsive eyes. Remember to breathe, have a comfortable yet erect posture, blink, nod your head in agreeance & laugh if the moment presents itself. Outside of your posture, be conscious of your interviewer’s body language, differentiating serious or breezy topics within their posture. You want to communicate an eager, confident, and calm persona with your posture. 

Express x talk x confidence = Fascinated 

During your interview, prioritize speaking with poise. To say confidently, be aware of the speed at which you talk, and avoid babbling to ensure your interviewer hears you correctly. Practice breathing techniques to help with easing any nerves. Pause before you answer questions to guarantee you answer thoughtfully & avoid rambling. Maintain eye contact as well. This shows interest & engagement.

In addition to your qualifications and worthiness to have the career of your dreams, implement this formula to stand out at your next interview, and you will leave a lasting impression.