How to Answer the Interview Question: ‘What Makes You Unique?’

If you have been asked to attend an interview for your dream graduate job, it’s likely you’re brimming with nerves about what to expect – especially when faced with challenging questions that require you to articulate your qualities.

There is one particular question that most graduates fear but is most likely to come up: “So, what do you believe makes you unique?”.

Now, you may be left like a rabbit in the headlights when you’re asked on the spot, so it’s always worth preparing your answer beforehand to showcase how you differ from other candidates that have applied.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be equipped with the tools to impress interviewers and boost your chances of getting hired.

1.  Professional achievements

By highlighting specific accomplishments or experiences to the interviewer, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and differentiate yourself from other candidates who are competing for the same position.

During the discussion, focus on tangible outcomes. These can include exceeding targets, receiving recognition or awards, or successfully completing challenging projects.

By quantifying your achievements with numbers, percentages, or specific results, you provide concrete evidence of your capabilities.

However, be sure to emphasise the relevance of your achievements around the position you’re applying for based on the requirements outlined in the job description.

Also, be sure to bring along any proof of specialised training or certifications that showcase your active participation and commitment to your previous company.

Don’t be afraid to also express any challenges you faced to reach those milestones. It doesn’t make you look incapable, but instead, shows off your problem-solving abilities and adaptability in overcoming obstacles and finding solutions to problems.

2.  Transferable skills

All employers look for candidates that possess transferable skills (that can be applied to any role, in any company) and how this may benefit their firm. By expressing your skills when answering the question, you’re demonstrating your value as a candidate.

To make sure you’re mentioning the correct hard skills, read the job description carefully and determine what they’re looking for. Does it mention that the candidate must have several years of experience or technical knowledge in the field?

You should also consider the soft skills that may be looked favourably upon for this role, such as leadership, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.

Whichever skills you mention, be sure to mention concrete examples of how you have applied them to previous roles. This will give the interviewer a clear understanding of your capabilities and what you may be able to bring to the role you’re applying for.

Always remember that while you may be proud of what you have achieved, be sure to stay genuine and avoid exaggeration. Making broad, unsupported claims won’t stand you in good stead.

3. Personality traits

An employer will be working alongside you on a day-to-day basis, therefore, they have to have confidence that you’ll be the right fit for the company and the current team. These could include but are not limited to:

• Patience
• Persistence
• Remaining calm under pressure
• Empathy
• Open-mindedness

We hope the tips above have given you something to think about when answering the all-important interview question: ‘What makes you unique?’

If you haven’t yet found the perfect graduate job that you’re looking for, get in touch with Inspiring Interns today. Our team will match you with potential employers to help you secure your ideal role.