When interviewing for a job, you may be asked the question, "What makes you unique?" This question can be difficult to answer because it's vague. However, there are a few ways to approach this question.
How do you answer what makes you unique examples?
To be unique means that you are one-of-a-kind, and no other person is quite like you. This uniqueness stems in part from within ourselves, as seen in our behaviors and actions. According to the Oxford Dictionary, unique means "being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else."
There are a few ways to answer this question. One way is to share something about yourself that isn't obvious, such as your passion for a certain activity or your dedication to a unique hobby. You could also talk about your personality and how you approach life differently than others. For example, maybe you're more energetic or optimistic than most people. Or, you might have a strong sense of justice and always stand up for what you believe in, no matter what the cost.
Whatever you decide to share, make sure it is genuine and reflects who you truly are. Don't try to be someone else; instead, be proud of the unique qualities that make you special. Here are some of the best phrases to use when talking about your unique personality.
- My natural talent for organization distinguishes me from other people – this phrase will work if you are usually very neat and tidy
- I am always looking for new opportunities to learn – this phrase will work if you have a never-ending thirst for knowledge
- I don't shy away from a challenge – this phrase will work if you are the type of person who is always up for a good fight
- My sense of humor is one of my defining qualities – this phrase will work if you are known for being funny or making people laugh
- My ability to easily sympathize and relate to people is what sets me apart – you can use this phrase if you have always been a good listener and are able to put yourself in other people's shoes
- My experience of four years in retail is what sets me apart – by using this phrase you will show up the interviewer that you have experience in the industry they are hiring for
- I am very passionate about my work – this phrase will work if you want to show the interviewer that you really care about your job and are not just there for the paycheck.
- Mention previous experiences and achievements that are relevant to the position – this will show that you have the skills and qualifications required for the job.
- Consider how your present employment relates to the position you're applying for – this phrase will show that you are currently employed, but are looking for a new opportunity.
- When it comes to writing, focus on areas where you can support yourself with examples – when you say so, it would be seen as bragging.
What makes you different from others?
What distinguishes one person from another? There are so many differences between people; their genetic makeup, socio-cultural origins, attitudes, style of speech, listening and learning, behavior, and reaction. So, during your job application interview, how will you answer the question – what distinguishes you from others?
One method to approach this question is by highlighting personality traits that make you unique. For example, if you are someone who always looks on the bright side of life and never lets anything get you down, then you can share that with the interviewer. Or, if you have a sharp memory and can remember every detail of conversations, then you can mention that as well.
Whatever route you take, make sure your answers are genuine and interesting. The last thing you want to do is come across as fake or insincere. And, be sure to practice answering this question before your interview so that you feel confident discussing it.
How do you introduce yourself professionally?
The following phrases may be used to introduce oneself during the interview:
- Nice to meet you; I'm …
- Pleased to meet you; I'm …
- Let me introduce myself; I'm …
- I'd like to introduce myself; I'm …
The said above phrases can be used to introduce oneself with a name and designation if known. So, when starting the job interview you can try any of these phrases to make a good impression.
But, what makes you unique? This is the question that is asked to know how different you are from others. So, answer this question by highlighting your qualities, skills, and strengths. Let them know why they should hire you and not somebody else. You can also prepare for this question by writing down your qualities, skills, and strengths on a piece of paper. This will help you in answering confidently when asked about what makes you unique.
Here are also some examples of positive words to describe yourself:
- Creative. My technique for solving problems is unique.
- Dedicated. I have never missed a day of work in my life.
- Driven. I thrive on challenges and am always looking for ways to improve.
- Intelligent. I have a high IQ and am able to learn new things quickly.
- Motivated. I am passionate about my work and always give 110%.
- Persistent. When I set my mind to something, I never give up until I achieve my goal.
- Resourceful. I am able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.
- Energetic. I am usually upbeat and eager to learn new skills.
- Flexible. I have no problem working long hours or taking on new responsibilities.
- Team-oriented. I am able to work well with others and am always willing to help out.
- Hardworking. I have a strong work ethic and am always the first one to arrive and the last one to leave.
- Honest. I have a reputation for being truthful and can be counted on to always tell the truth.
- Compassionate. I have a lot of empathy for others and am able to put myself in their shoes.
- Positive. I have a good attitude and always look on the bright side of life.
If you are not sure about your qualities, skills, or strengths, ask your friends and family members for their opinion. They will likely be able to think of a few things that make you unique and special. Remember, be confident when answering this question. You do have something special that makes you different from everybody else – so own it!
How can you describe yourself in 1 sentence?
Many HR managers and other interviewers may ask potential candidates to describe themselves in one sentence during an interview. This question can be difficult to answer if you are not prepared for it. To make the best impression, you should have a good answer ready. When asked this question, think about the qualities that make you stand out from others. Maybe you are very organized, creative, or have a great sense of humor. Whatever your qualities are, focus on those and try to put them into words that will capture the interviewer's attention.
An example of how to answer this question could be: “I'd say I'm creative, adaptable to change, a quick learner, and someone who will go above and beyond what's required to guarantee that my employer stays one step ahead of the competition.” This answer will show the interviewer that you are dedicated to your work and that you have the qualities that they are looking for in a potential employee.
If you are having trouble answering this question, you can also try talking about your hobbies or interests. This can give the interviewer a better idea of who you are as a person. For example, if you are into traveling, you could say, “I love to travel and learn about new cultures. I think that it's important to have a global perspective, and I'm always looking for new opportunities to explore.”
Other examples of how to describe yourself in one sentence are as follows:
“I am a hard worker who is always looking for new challenges. I take pride in my work and am always looking for ways to improve my skills.”
“I am a people person who enjoys interacting with others. I have a lot of energy and enjoy being around people. I think this quality makes me a great leader and team player.”
“I am someone who is always looking to learn new things. I have a thirst for knowledge and love taking on new challenges. I think this makes me a valuable asset to any company.”
These are just a few examples of how you can describe yourself in one sentence during an interview. By preparing ahead of time, you can make sure that you give the best possible impression to the interviewer.
Tell about your strengths
In general, your strengths should be abilities that may be supported by experience. If you identify communication as a strength, consider a time when you used it to achieve an aim or solve a problem. If you picked analytical thinking, talk about a tough problem at work you solved by breaking it down and analyzing the pieces.
The best way to answer this question is to give a few specific examples of times when you utilized your strengths in order to achieve success. This will show the interviewer that you have experience using your strengths and that you are capable of producing results.
If you are not sure what your strengths are, ask your friends or family members for their opinion. They will likely be able to think of a few things that make you unique and special. Remember, be confident when answering this question. You do have something special that makes you different from everybody else – so own it!
An example of how to answer this question could be:
“I would say that my strongest attribute is my ability to think critically. I have always been able to analyze problems and find solutions quickly. This has helped me to be successful in my previous jobs.”
This answer will show the interviewer that you are a thinker and that you have the qualities that they are looking for in a potential employee. It also illustrates that you have experience using your strengths in a work setting.
If you are having trouble answering this question, you can also try talking about your hobbies or interests. This can give the interviewer a better idea of who you are as a person. For example, if you are into traveling, you could say, “I love to travel and learn about new cultures. I think that it's important to have a global perspective, and I'm always looking for new opportunities to explore.”
Should you tell the interviewer that you are the best?
But should you always insist on being the very best? In a word, no. If you're cocky and act like you're the best thing since sliced bread, you'll likely turn the interviewer off. Remember that there are plenty of other candidates who may be a better fit for the job than you are.
When answering this question, it is important to stay humble. While it is important to highlight your strengths, it is also important to be respectful of the interviewer and of other candidates. There is no need to come across as cocky or conceited.
On the contrary, if you are confident in your abilities, you can phrase your answer in a way that sounds more humble. For example, you could say, “I am confident in my abilities, and I am always looking for ways to improve. I think that this quality makes me a valuable asset to any company.”
This answer demonstrates confidence without coming across as arrogant. It is also important to remember that there are no guarantees in life. Even if you are the best candidate for the job, there is always a chance that you may not get it. So don't get too down on yourself if you don't end up getting the job – there are plenty of other opportunities out there!