What Makes You Unique? [Answer For The Interview Question]
If you have ever been to interviews, you have probably encountered these questions more than just a few times. These include “What makes you unique?”, “What sets you apart from the rest of the candidates?”, “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”.
Although there are a million answers you could come up with, most seem to be at a loss of words here – even though the answer seems too simple.
This blog has broken down the complex and made it simple to understand what the employer wants from you, how you can deliver just that, and beyond.
To better understand how to tackle this question, let us first understand what the recruiter wants to know about you when they bring the question, “What makes you unique?” up at interviews. A recruiter usually looks for the candidate’s skillset and whether the candidate will be an asset to the firm.
In simple words, the answer to why employers ask what makes you unique is because they want to assess whether you have the experience and skills to be the right candidate for the required job. The question checks whether you have the drive and hunger for the job position and what additional skills you hold.
For instance, the employer might want to find out whether you are good at communication, deadline-oriented, or able to handle difficult situations.
This question is the perfect opportunity for you to list your skills and anything that might make you stand out from the other candidates waiting for their interview or who gave their interview. You should state every skill, although the primary emphasis needs to be on the skill set required for the job you are applying for.
Simple details in your answer can show that you have come prepared and knowledgeable about the job. When answered correctly, it also shows how confident you are and how well you know yourself, increasing your chances of getting hired!
How To Answer, “What makes you unique?”
- Before we talk about the question, here’s a bonus little interview hack. The next time if/when you are offered water at an interview, accept it politely. That way, in case you get stuck in between responses, you can quickly take a sip of water and use that time to think before answering.
- Coming to the question: the first step is to read the mail or the job application carefully. You can find all the required details in these sources. So now you can tell what the recruiter is looking for in the ideal candidate. Frame your answer on these lines.
- Next comes research. Quick research about the company will help create an impression. Find grounds of common interests and see what you genuinely like about the company.
- The next step is recalling all your abilities and skills that can be an advantage for the team and the company. These include soft skills such as being good at communication, deadline-oriented, leadership qualities, etc. will most nicely be a good fit.
- This is also a great opportunity to showcase your creativity. You can always be creative with your response with endless possible answers to this question. A unique approach to the question will make you stand out. Something as simple as expressing how excited you are for the role, or showing how you can tackle questions calmly, will do the trick.
- Backing up your skills and abilities with short examples or past achievements is a safe and go-to move. The answer can be short and straightforward, but avoid oversharing, constant repetition, or false information.
Conclusion
We hope this blog will help you answer the dreaded question, “What makes you unique?” in the best possible way. Everyone has something unique that makes them the best fit for the job. Based on the job role and previous communication with the employer, you must determine which aspect suits you best: your qualifications, strengths, skills, and experience.
Whatever you choose to say, make sure it is genuine and honest. Don’t try to fake it or be someone you’re not. The interviewer will see right through that. Be yourself, and let your personality shine through!
