Job hunting is frankly a competition. You’re vying for the attention of a potential employer against other hopefuls and you need to be memorable. This doesn’t mean being outrageous or attention-seeking; rather, it means exhibiting qualities that make you stand out as a candidate who is excited about the opportunity and who would be an asset to the company.

Here are a few tips on how to make a positive impression and be memorable during your next job interview.

Do Your Research

Before walking into an interview, it is crucial that you have done your research on the company. This means more than just knowing the basics; you find out about the company’s mission, values, and goals. 

Your interviewer will likely ask you questions about why you are interested in working for the company, and with the right information, you should be able to answer specifically instead of vaguely. 

Plus, researching means you can filter out the bad companies- from those that don’t offer retirement benefits to those who have a history of harassment.

Luckily, it’s not difficult to research companies these days. First, visit the company website and read through their “About Us” page. Then, check out their social media accounts to get a sense of their tone. Finally, do a quick Google search to see if there have been any recent news stories about the company. 

Make a Connection

One of the best ways to make an impression during a job interview is to find a way to connect with your interviewer on a personal level. This doesn’t mean that you should try to become best friends; rather, it means finding a way to build rapport and create a sense of trust.

One way to do this is to ask questions about the interviewer’s experience with the company. What do they enjoy most about working there? 

Another way to make a connection is to share something personal about yourself. This could be a brief story about why you are passionate about the industry, or a time when you overcame a difficult challenge. By sharing something vulnerable, you will build trust and show that you are comfortable being open and honest.

Follow Up After the Interview

Once the interview is over, it’s important to follow up with an email. This shows that you appreciate the opportunity and that you are still interested in the position.

In your follow-up email, mention something specific that you discussed during the interview. This could be a shared interest, a piece of advice that the interviewer gave you, or a goal that you are both excited about. By referencing something from the conversation, you will show that you were paying attention.

So do your research, make a connection with your interviewer, and follow up after the interview to show your continued interest. By taking these steps, you will increase your chances of impressing the hiring manager and landing the job.