Final interview, how to stand out from the other candidate?

Anonymous

March 1,2023 at 11:08PM UTC

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Final interview, how to stand out from the other candidate? After a long process, I've reached the final round; what can I prepare or say to stand out from my competition? Leading up to the interview, I've already provided a presentation, writing samples and additional requirements. Knowing that I'm in the final two, is there anything I can do to tip the odds in my favor? I'm starting to get nervous which always means I really care! Thank you...

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Debra SesholtzMarch 1,2023 at 11:22PM UTC
Sounds like you’ve provided a lot to prove yourself right for the role already. One other item you could bring to your final interview would be a 30-60-90 day plan on how you would hit the ground running when you are hired. What you include depends on your role, but I would keep it general. First 30 days concentrate on learning the company, your team, tools needed for your job, and setting goals/priorities. Build out from there. Here’s an article you can look at for ideas.
https://indeedhi.re/3ZeeyhO
Good luck!
AnonymousMarch 1,2023 at 11:24PM UTC
I think the best advice someone gave me in this same situation was "breathe and be yourself."
It sounds trite but think about it for a moment.
They already like you. They already respect your experience and what you can bring to the table. What separates you from the other candidates at this point is how you present your work (be professional) and how you present yourself (be a person they want to work with everyday).
I actually calmed myself down before my last interview by saying out loud before the interview, "Calm down, be yourself, be friendly." And I got the job.
Also, it is alright to let them know you care and want it. Don't beg for the job but the fact you care is an advantage.
So remember: You made it through the hard part. They like you. Just be your awesome professional self and do your best.
Good luck :)
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 4:20PM UTC
Thank you and I have 'the Calm down, be friendly' written at the top of my planning sheet for today. In final rounds, I end up getting too much in my head. Since being laid off, I really need a job and can't come across as desperate. I need to calm down, be myself and show what I can offer the company. Thank you for the reality check!
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 12:20AM UTC
Difficult to answer this generically; but I know when I've been on hiring committees, I tend to look for who is the one with the original ideas; who thinks creatively, outside the box? It's perhaps not a suitable criteria for every role, but I think it is for many. So, perhaps think of a way to illustrate that.
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 4:17PM UTC
Thank you Anonymous. I'll include some of my in the strategic plan I'm creating.
Annetta MosesMarch 2,2023 at 1:14AM UTC
Based on what has been shared with you, do you have sufficient information to create thought starters for a 30-60-90 day plan? As a hiring manager I appreciate it when candidates have opinions of what is possible for them to do and great job and have immediate impact.
also, look for current information about the company and industry. See if there are opportunities to incorporate this into the interview. For example, I noticed X about the company in a recent press release, please share with me how this department might contribute to making X successful.
Good luck.
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 4:17PM UTC
I love the idea about a 30-60-90 day plan. I haven't created one before but I think it would be helpful for this type of role as the focus to grow business and clients for a region. Great suggestion!
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 7:24AM UTC
Do your research on the company and share what about them drew you to want to work there. Find commonalities to share, & maybe be more conversational. You're getting to know them to see if you want to work there too.
Sheree MoranMarch 2,2023 at 1:22PM UTC
I’d love to get some insight as well. I've been runner up in a few positions now do would love a new perspective.
Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterMarch 2,2023 at 1:43PM UTC
There are some great comments here - and YES to them all.
My addition would be, when they ask if there are any final thoughts or questions - ask them "What would it take for me to be the right fit for this role?" or "What are the top qualifications someone needs to succeed here?" or "Are there any questions I didn't ask that you wish I had?"
These always get me thinking about them as a person on my team.
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 4:15PM UTC
Thank you and I've jotted your suggestions down to include in planning for tomorrow's interview. I appreciated your help!
AnonymousMarch 2,2023 at 11:06PM UTC
Love that last question!!
AnonymousMarch 4,2023 at 7:25PM UTC
Thank you notes, to each and every person along the path that helped you to get to the end. Reference the bits of their conversation that helped you to get excited and let them know how interested you are to work with them and to learn from them. Ask for their support of you for the role. If you get responses to those emails its a good sign. Make them friendly but not too personal.