How to Stand Out

What should you wear? What questions will you be asked? What questions should you ask? We’ll help you prepared and stand out during an interview.

On this page:

What to Bring

Being prepared is the number one way to impress during an interview, and that includes not showing up empty-handed. Here's a list of things you might want to bring to your interview.

  • Copies of your resume/CV
  • A pen
  • A notepad
  • List of references
  • Notes with talking points/examples of your experiences
  • A list of prepared questions to ask
  • Portfolio (if you have one) or examples of your work
  • Folder/Briefcase (optional)
  • Business cards (optional)
  • Directions and contact information
  • Driver’s Licenses or Passport
  • A smile and positive energy
Map Out Directions Ahead of Time

Take the time before your interview, to get directions and even practice finding your interview location. There's nothing worse than looking sharp but showing up late because you got lost on the way to the interview.

What to Wear

When it comes to dressing for an in-person or video interview, think trendy, but conservative. Choose a classic suit coat, dress, shirt and pants or skirt. Wear clothing that is clean, wrinkle-free and fits you properly. This will show that you mean business.

A new suit isn't in your budget?

Try visiting local thrift stores for a slightly used one.

Tips on Tying a Tie

Following along with Bob as he shows you three different ways to tie a tie.

Screenshot of the video "Tips on Tying a Tie with Bob."

What to Say

What you talk about and how you say it can make or break your chances of getting hired. Here's how you can describe your skills and experiences.

Highlight Your Skills How to Answer Interview Questions Questions to Ask

There's no way to predict what exact interview questions you'll be asked. A good place to start is answering this list of difficult questions using Big Interview to get the confidence boost you need.

Difficult Questions to Answer

Personal/Career Goal Questions

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What are your greatest strengths? 
  • What is your biggest weakness? What skill do you feel like you're still missing?
  • What kind of boss do you prefer?
  • Why are you interested in this position? 
  • Why do you want to work here?
  • What motivates you most in a job?

Skill-Based Questions

  • Why should we hire you?
  • What can you offer us that someone else can not?
  • What job-related skills have you developed?
  • What are some of your leadership experiences?
  • Discuss your resume.

Situational-Based Questions

  • Tell me about a time where you failed or made a mistake. What did you learn?
  • Give me an example of a major problem you encountered and how you dealt with it.
  • Walk me through a situation in which you had to adjust to changes over which you had no control. How did you handle it?
  • Describe an accomplishment you are most proud of.
  • Give a time when you went above and beyond the requirements for a project.
Use the STAR Method

Remember to use the STAR Method when answering these experience questions. It will leave the interviewers thinking you're a rock star.

Other Common Interview Questions

What's Next

Find out what type of questions you may want to ask at the end of your interview.