Answering 'What sets you apart from other candidates?'
Having a variety of applicable skills and experiences is what's going to make you stand out among other candidates when applying to a job. When interviewing for a job, it's important to show how you can add more value to a company than anyone else applying for the role. By thinking of ways you can contribute to a specific role, you can come off as a confident and prepared candidate. Here we discuss why employers ask 'What sets you apart from other candidates?' and offer advice to help you craft the perfect response.
Why employers ask 'What sets you apart from other candidates?'
Employers ask ‘What sets you apart from other candidates?’ to know what specific qualities you can bring to the table. They want to learn more about your strengths and relevant experience. This question gives you the opportunity to share your unique talents and goals. By specifically sharing what you hope to do in this position, you are showing that you’re an ambitious candidate.
What employers don’t want to hear are cookie-cutter responses. Think beyond what the job description is asking of you, and try to figure out what really makes you special. Try to picture yourself in an employer’s shoes. Determine why you would hire yourself as opposed to someone else. Showing that you have a one-of-a-kind perspective to offer may make you a more likely candidate.
Tips for answering 'What sets you apart from other candidates?'
There are many ways you can tackle this question. The main thing to remember is that you need to think about what makes you special. Follow these tips to successfully answer, ‘What sets you apart from other candidates?’:
- Know the job requirements: Prior to your interview, read through the job posting a few more times. Highlight the specific requirements and skills needed for this position. Think about which of these qualifications you have and write them down on a list. This way, you can pick and choose which ones to discuss.
- Keep your answer relevant: Make sure to stay on topic while discussing your answer. Although you may want to discuss all of your skills and experience, only discuss which ones apply to the role. This can help your answer stay focused and concise.
- Figure out what makes you special: Although discussing your relevant skills is helpful, you need to figure out why you stand out among all of the other candidates. Elaborate on a special talent or unique experience you have. Think about what other people might say and how you can make your answer different.
- Share past examples: Talking about specific times you added value to your team can help you highlight what makes you special. Think of a time when you were the only person who was able to solve a problem.
- Be confident and polite: Although you should show that you are confident about your response, you should also be mindful of how you speak of other candidates. Find a balance between sharing your talents and speaking kindly of others. There is no need to badmouth other candidates in order to prove your point.
Example answers to 'What sets you apart from other candidates?'
Use these examples answers as inspiration when answering, ‘What sets you apart from other candidates?’:
Example 1: Unique talent
Highlighting a unique talent is an excellent way to show that you are a qualified candidate. The answer below works well because this candidate explains how their special skills can be helpful in this role. They elaborate on how the company will benefit from their talents.
Answer: A unique talent that I can bring to the table is my fluency in Spanish. I see that your company is trying to broaden your reach to a Hispanic market, making this skill a valuable asset. If you ever need someone to speak to a client who speaks Spanish or translate something, I would love to help. While learning Spanish, I also spent over a year in Spain. This would make me a top candidate for the many business trips I see this position requires. I have the ability to acclimate to new cultures and make meaningful connections with clients overseas.
Example 2: Impressive experiences
The answer below discusses a specific experience that makes this candidate qualified for the job. They share an experience that is quite unlikely for another candidate to have. This shows that the only way an employer is going to get this expertise is by hiring this specific candidate.
Answer: As someone who used to operate their own business, I think I have a unique perspective to offer to this management position. I understand that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to managing a store. I have experience in ordering inventory, managing shipments, working with vendors, and hiring staff. Upon beginning this role, I would use my entrepreneurship skills to continue to grow your brand and create exciting new offerings for customers.
Example 3: Relevant skills
Showcasing your relevant skills and then building upon them is a great way to stand out. That’s why the answer below works so well. This candidate thought of a skill that wasn’t listed on the job posting, but they know will be helpful in their role.
Answer: I was excited to apply for this job because I checked off all of the requirements. I can use Adobe Photoshop, I have agency experience, and I have a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. What truly sets me apart from other candidates is my ability to code. Many people don’t realize how important it is for a graphic designer to have coding skills. I can build an entire website from scratch and make awesome interactive designs. I think this skill set will make me an especially valuable employee when more of the company’s assets go digital.