How to shine at interview

You need to do more than just show how you meet the basic job requirements if you're to stand out from other applicants. Help the hiring manager visualize you excelling in the role, by displaying these star performer characteristics 

Leadership and influencing skills 
In a recent live Q&A on how to succeed at an interview,  a recruiter specializing in marketing wrote that employers look for examples of how candidates have influenced wider teams in the business through consultation and collaboration, rather than through pulling rank. 

Identify situations where you created wide support for your initiatives to solve problems, win new business, motivate teams and colleagues, or introduce measures to cut costs or streamline procedures. 

Communication skills 
Good written and verbal communication skills are necessary for most jobs. Go beyond the basics and focus on how you've adapted your message and communication style for different audiences. You can mention successful presentations and negotiations, or occasions where you've had to work with difficult people or manage complex projects involving a range of stakeholders. Highlight your ability to develop and build relationships with people throughout the company, as well as with suppliers, clients or customers. 

Understanding the bigger picture 
Rather than a narrow focus on the role or department, broaden your appeal by demonstrating an understanding of the wider context of the business and industry. Show interest in how the role has an impact on the organisation as a whole. Where does it fit within the organisation and how will your contribution make a difference? 

Good awareness of the company culture and values is also important and you'll need to show you're a good fit not just for the role, but on a wider level. Will your managers and colleagues enjoy working with you? Is it the sort of culture where you'll be able to flourish and get great results? 

Research current industry trends so you can talk knowledgeably about how they affect the business. What opportunities or challenges is the organisation facing? Draw on your previous experience to illustrate how you've dealt with similar situations successfully before and, therefore, how you'll be able to do the same in this role. 

A good attitude 
Having the right attitude can compensate for not having exactly the right skills-set or experience. Give examples of where you've pulled out all the stops to get the work done or to exceed expectations. Be enthusiastic about the opportunity and be clear about how it relates to your personal goals and career ambitions. 

The ability to ask good questions 
Prepare thoughtful questions before your interview. Questions that mark you out as a great candidate are those which reveal your motivation to add value to the organisation (rather than just an interest in the salary and benefits.) 

Ask about what you'll be expected to achieve in the short, mid or long-term; or what differentiates a great (rather than merely average) candidate in this role.