what makes you unique essay question

How to Answer ‘What Makes You Unique?’ & Stand Out in Your Next Interview

Published: April 23, 2024

Whenever I get asked ‘What makes you unique?’ or ‘What makes you stand out from other candidates?’ in an interview, I use it as the perfect opportunity to explain why I’m the best person for the role.

Marketer showing you how to answer the what makes you unique interview question

And I like to get specific. I’ve found that interviewers respond positively when I skip the generics and tie my answer back to what I have to offer based on my individual background.

Your answer could ultimately make or break your interview, so it’s important to really nail it. I’ll walk you through how to answer this question the right way.

Table of Contents

Subtle Ways Interviewers Ask 'What makes you unique?’

Why do interviewers ask ‘what sets you apart from other candidates’.

How to Answer "What makes you unique?"

7 Sample Answers to "What Makes You Unique?" and Why They Work

Prepare beyond ‘what makes you unique’.

There are many ways that interviewers try to tease out what makes you a stand-out candidate.

Here are some of the common questions that are actually ‘What makes you unique?’ in disguise:

What makes you stand out from other candidates?
What sets you apart from other candidates?
What can you bring to this role that’s different from other candidates?
What makes you a valuable candidate for this role?
Why are you the best candidate for this role?
Why should I choose you over other candidates?

No matter how this question manifests itself during your interview, the overarching goal remains the same.

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The interviewer is asking you this question to give you an opportunity to showcase your value.

They want to see that you’ve done thorough research about the company and the position. And they want you to connect your skills and experience back to the role you’re interviewing for.

For example, let’s say I’m trying to land a social media role, and I notice that the company could be doing a better job on TikTok.

I can use this as an opportunity to:

Show that I’ve done my homework — I’m already familiar with the company’s social media presence and the platforms where they’re currently active (i.e., TikTok).
Highlight relevant skills — I have several years of experience managing and growing TikTok accounts, so I’ll be sure to mention that.
Provide a light recommendation — I’ll share how my skills and experience allows me to identify and implement that recommendation.

Think about it like this: If you can show the interviewer that you can help the company meet their goals (and that you know what their goals are in the first place), that’s one great way to set yourself apart from the rest.

Plus, it becomes clear to the interviewer that you’ve taken the time to prepare if you can provide specific examples related to the role.

These are all reasons why this is such a popular interview question — so come ready, and don’t be afraid to humble brag about yourself a little.

How to Answer 'What makes you unique?'

Mention skills listed in the job description.
Provide specific examples from your background.
Avoid generic phrases like ‘I'm a hard worker.’
Include key personality traits that will allow you to deliver results.
Tell the interviewer how your unique skills will help the company succeed.

1. Mention skills listed in the job description.

This is one of the best ways to show the interviewer that you’ve done your research. Also, the job description is basically like your cheat sheet. Use it as a guide so you know exactly which skills to highlight throughout the interview.

My recommendation: Refer back to the job description but don’t recite it word for word. Use it in context to explain how your skillset aligns with the expectations for the role.

2. Provide specific examples from your background.

This is another smart way you can use the job description to your advantage. Reference prior accomplishments or results from past roles that relate to the position you’re interviewing for.

My recommendation: Focus on examples that tie back to the skills required for the position, and always quantify success where possible.

Using our social media example, saying ‘I ran a social media campaign which resulted in a 120% increase in traffic to our website’ is a lot more impactful than ‘I have experience running social media campaigns.’

3. Avoid generic phrases like "I'm a hard worker."

Remember, this is a very standard interview question, so that means every candidate is likely being asked this question.

Make your answer compelling. Instead of saying you're a ‘hard worker,’ give specific examples about the hard work you’ve accomplished related to the role.

My recommendation: Try to avoid the common buzzwords and instead replace those with real descriptions of your past work.

For example, you and every other candidate for a social media position probably consider yourselves to be “social media savvy.”

Instead, make the case to prove that you are actually savvier than the competition based on your unique background.

4. Include key personality traits that will allow you to deliver results.

Someone else might have similar skills as you, but your personality is one of a kind.

Being ‘social media savvy’ is one thing. But if you’re social media savvy and a tenacious person who is able to think quickly on your feet, that’s an asset.

Highlight the traits that have proven value in helping you grow as a professional.

My recommendation: You want to know one of my favorite ways to convince interviewers that I can deliver the results they’re looking for? Tell them how I’ve found similar success in the past and how my individuality supported that.

5. Tell the interviewer how your unique skills will help the company succeed.

This closely relates back to Tip #3.

Don’t just talk about generic skills that most candidates have — always tie your skills back to specific projects you’ve worked on.

Your background is what makes you unique. There’s no one person that has the exact experience, skills, and traits that you do. Use that to your advantage.

My recommendation: You may not know the company's internal goals, but you should always try to connect your skills back to their mission and values when possible.

1. "I am a very good communicator and find it's easy for me to relate to other people."

Consider mentioning a personality trait you feel would be a good fit for the business. After reading the job description, make a list of attributes that could make you an exceptional candidate.

Additionally, including a personality trait in your answer allows you to display how you're a good fit for a role in which you have little prior experience.

For instance, if you're applying for a position as a team leader, it's critical that you demonstrate strong communication skills and an ability to connect with a diverse group of people.

If you tell the interviewer, "I am a very good communicator and find it's easy for me to relate to other people", you're able to match your personality to components of a successful leader.

Why this works: Effective communication is a critical trait to emphasize in interviews. If you consider how 86% of employees cite lack of collaboration as a main component of workplace failures, you can begin to appreciate why.

2. "I really enjoy learning new things and am constantly seeking out new learning opportunities."

By mentioning your passion for learning new things, you're demonstrating you're growth-focused and unafraid of challenges.

Additionally, answering the question in this way allows you to remind the interviewer why you're uniquely qualified for the role.

Why this works: While other candidates might have more prior experience in the industry, you're proving your desire to exceed expectations of the job quickly.

3. "My prior experience in customer service has provided me with unique technical skills that I can apply to this role."

If you have prior experience in a role vastly different from the one for which you're applying, you might use this as an opportunity to explain how your background uniquely qualifies you.

It's critical, however, that you provide specific examples of how your prior experience has provided you with certain transferable skills.

For instance, you might say the following:

"My prior experience in customer service provided me with an extensive knowledge base for how our product works. As a marketer, I will be able to use this knowledge to ensure we're meeting our customers' needs."

It's also important to highlight: Previous job experience has declined in importance when it comes to recruiters evaluating candidates. In fact, over the last few years, that number has dropped from 92% to 62% .

So it's okay if you feel your prior work experience doesn't perfectly align with the role for which you're applying — as long as you can explain how your skills will help you succeed.

Why this works: With an answer like this one, you're able to alleviate concerns the interviewer might have with your lack of experience in the field.

4. "Working at a startup gave me an opportunity to understand the ins-and-outs of the industry, and to take on tasks I might not have at a larger company. I think this experience gives me a slight edge over other applicants."

Similar to the answer above, this answer is a good one if you're attempting to switch industries.

Consider how your background has allowed you to gain unique skills that others, who followed a more linear career trajectory, might not have.

For instance, if you previously worked at a small startup and now you want to transfer to a large corporation, it's important you mention how those skills will make you successful in this new role.

Why this works: If you think your prior experience could deter interviewers from seeing you as exceptionally qualified, this is an optimal chance to prove them wrong.

5. "I'm not afraid of failure. In fact, I think it is an essential part of the experimental process that gets you to success. For example … "

This answer shows your interviewer that you're not afraid to take risks.

Of course, you'll only want to say this if you have a positive example to reinforce the importance of failure in the workplace.

You don't want to sound like you make mistakes all the time, but you'll stand out if you mention how you turned a failure into a success.

For instance, you might say, "I'm not afraid of failure. In my last role, we tried to streamline our SEO process and, along the way, found we'd accidentally decreased traffic to our site.

However, this initial failure allowed me to see the errors in our previous procedure. My team and I came up with a more successful strategy to avoid these mistakes in the future, and ended up increasing traffic by 20%."

Why this works: With this answer, you're showing you're capable of remaining flexible and open-minded when something doesn't work right away, and you know how to take failures and use them as learning opportunities.

6. "When solving problems, I apply both logic and emotional aspects in equal proportion. For instance, I'm trained in SEO and understand how to use analytics to ensure a marketing campaign is successful, but I also majored in design and know how to apply creativity to a project as well."

If you're stuck on deciding how to demonstrate your unique qualifications, start by thinking about how other people approach problems at your company, and how you differ.

For instance, most people are either logical and use analytics to solve problems, or emotional and use creativity. It's rare to find someone who is both.

Why this works: Most people focus on highlighting one skill per question in an interview. If you’re able to demonstrate that you’re comfortable combining two unique skills, it's an impressive ability you should highlight.

7. "I'm exceptionally organized, and at my last company, I was able to apply this skill to improve our process and increase ROI by 33%."

Remember, when your interviewer asks "what makes you unique", they're really wondering "how will you help our company?"

At the end of the day, it's critical you tie your answer back to how you will solve problems for the company.

48% of recruiters say improving quality of hire is a top priority — so you'll want to ensure your answer highlights how you will excel in the role for the long haul.

Consider a personality trait or skill set that helped your last company achieve results. If the results are quantitative, make sure you have the specific numbers to support your claim.

However, it's also appropriate to share qualitative results, such as, "my organizational skills led my manager to trusting me with a major project within the first two months in my role."

Why this works: Ultimately, providing examples shows the interviewer you're results-driven, and aren't just saying generic phrases to answer their question.

For even more inspiration on how to answer this question effectively, check out the video below.

The age-old “What makes you stand out from other candidates” question is one of many common questions that interviewers love, so it’s important to prep accordingly.

HubSpot’s comprehensive interview guide to help you tackle over 50 different interview questions like a pro, including questions related to:

Who you are and what skills you bring to the role
How you respond to challenges and conflict
How you’ll fit into or add to the company culture
Your professional goals and desired career trajectory

Download it for free here .

Stand Out in the Crowd

Essentially, ‘What makes you unique’ really means, ‘What makes you an exceptionally good fit for this role?’ Come prepared, get specific, and use examples to prove that you’re the best option in the candidate pool.

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36 Smart Answers to “What Makes You Unique?”

By Status.net Editorial Team on May 24, 2023 — 9 minutes to read

Interviewers ask the question “What makes you unique?” to determine how you stand out from other candidates: they want to know what specific qualities, skills, or experiences you possess that will bring success to the position they are filling. This question helps interviewers assess your self-awareness , confidence , and ability to effectively communicate your strengths .

Related: “What Sets You Apart”: Smart Answers

35 Best Answers to “What Are Your Strengths?”

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Identifying Your Unique Qualities

To answer this question:

Start by reviewing the job description and pinpointing key skills or requirements for the position.
Identify your own experiences or qualities that align with these key attributes.
Focus on the aspects of your background, personality, or life experiences that make you uniquely suited for the job.

Emphasize aspects of your experience and skills that align with the position’s requirements, while also highlighting personal or life experiences that set you apart from other candidates.

36 Sample Answers to “What Makes You Unique?”

When asked, “What makes you unique?” you could reply: “I have a strong ability to identify problems and implement innovative solutions quickly. In my previous job, I was responsible for improving our customer support process, which led to a 30% increase in customer satisfaction. This shows my drive for excellence and my determination to always seek improvements.”
You might want to mention your enthusiasm as a unique trait: “I am extremely passionate about the work I do, and I bring this energy to every task I undertake. My enthusiasm positively influences my team members, and I have found it helps us achieve our goals more effectively. My passion drives me to consistently perform above expectations.”
Showcase your accomplishments as a factor that sets you apart: “My unique combination of skills led me to be recognized as the top salesperson at my previous company for three consecutive years. I expertly balance relationship building with a focus on meeting targets to drive growth and ensure success.”
You could emphasize your adaptability: “I am highly adaptable and can comfortably work in various environments or industry sectors. For example, I have experience in sales, marketing, and customer service, which has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of different business areas.”
Highlighting your dedication to lifelong learning might impress interviewers: “I’m committed to continually developing my skills and knowledge in my field. I consistently attend conferences, read industry publications, and take courses to stay updated on the latest trends and practices. This commitment allows me to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to my work.”
Perhaps you want to mention how you balance work and personal life: “I pride myself on maintaining an excellent work-life balance, allowing me to stay focused and productive during work hours but also having time to pursue personal interests and hobbies. This gives me a healthy perspective and positively impacts my overall performance.”
You could speak to your ability to communicate effectively: “My strong communication skills and ability to relate to people from diverse backgrounds make me highly effective in team environments. I have a proven track record of resolving conflicts and fostering collaboration, which makes our team projects successful.”
Draw attention to your ability as a mentor: “I enjoy mentoring and sharing my knowledge with others, which benefits both my personal growth and the development of my team members. I have a history of empowering and guiding colleagues to help them reach their full potential.”
Your resourcefulness could be a point of interest: “I am resourceful and creative when faced with challenges or limited resources. This enables me to find unique solutions and operate efficiently, regardless of constraints.”
Emphasizing your work ethic: “I’m known for my strong work ethic and dedication to always putting forth my best effort. I take pride in consistently delivering high-quality results and have built a reputation as someone my team can rely on to execute tasks on-time and accurately.”
Showcase your leadership skills: “I have developed strong leadership skills throughout my career, allowing me to effectively guide teams and make strategic decisions. My ability to inspire and motivate those around me helps to cultivate a positive and productive work environment.”
Or, you could focus on your attention to detail: “My meticulous attention to detail allows me to quickly spot errors and discrepancies that others might miss, ensuring the highest quality of work. This has saved my team considerable time and effort, as well as prevented potential issues.”
More examples: “My dedication to learning new skills sets me apart. I constantly seek opportunities to improve my expertise and apply that knowledge to my work.”
“I bring a unique combination of marketing and design experience, which allows me to approach projects with creative and effective strategies.”
“My bilingual background allows me to communicate seamlessly with diverse teams and clients, ensuring successful collaboration on projects.”
“I am an avid problem-solver who enjoys tackling complex challenges, and I have a track record of finding innovative solutions that drive success.”
“My exceptional time-management skills help me juggle multiple tasks without compromising on quality or deadlines, especially when working under pressure.”
“My strong interpersonal skills have allowed me to create and maintain great working relationships with coworkers and clients, fostering a positive work environment.”
“I pride myself on being very adaptable, making it easier for me to adjust to new situations, teams, and roles within a company.”
“As a lifelong volunteer, I bring a strong sense of community and empathy, which has aided me in understanding the unique needs of clients and coworkers.”
“Through my experience in diverse industries, I gained a well-rounded perspective that allows me to approach tasks and projects from different angles.”
“As a self-starter, I am proactive in identifying areas for improvement and taking the necessary steps to ensure the success of the team and the company as a whole.”
“My resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks have allowed me to learn from my mistakes and continuously grow both personally and professionally.”
“I have a knack for storytelling, which helps me present complex ideas in a compelling way, making it more accessible and engaging for my audience.”
“ My background in both marketing and data analytics sets me apart from other candidates. This allows me to effectively analyze marketing data while also devising creative strategies for driving customer engagement.”
“As someone who has worked remotely for several years, I have developed strong communication and time management skills that would make me an asset to this team.”
“I am fluent in three languages, which makes me an asset in providing customer support to a diverse range of clients.”
“I am a certified yoga instructor, and I believe in incorporating mindfulness and stress reduction techniques into my work environment, leading to increased productivity and teamwork among colleagues.”
“I have an extensive background in nonprofit management, which includes grant writing, budgeting, and strategic planning. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to help grow and maintain the financial stability of the organization.”
“I have a strong track record of building rapport with clients in my previous sales role, consistently exceeding sales targets and receiving high satisfaction ratings.”
“With a background in both graphic design and writing, I have developed a creative approach to problem-solving that allows me to generate innovative solutions to business challenges.”
“As a military veteran, I have learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and adaptability. These traits make me a valuable addition to any team.”
“I have experience working with both children and adults with special needs, making me uniquely qualified to meet the diverse needs of clients in this occupational therapy role.”
“In the past, I have taken on several leadership roles, engaging in volunteer work, and mentoring relationships. These experiences have helped me develop strong leadership and communication skills.”
“Having completed a coding bootcamp, I am skilled in multiple programming languages and have a strong grasp of best practices. This knowledge allows me to quickly adapt and contribute to various projects.”
“I have a strong background in both technical support and customer service, which enables me to give clients a seamless support experience while effectively troubleshooting and resolving any issues they encounter.”

Personality Traits

Adaptability.

Showcasing your adaptability can help set you apart. When asked “What makes you unique?” consider sharing an example of your ability to adapt quickly to new situations. For example, you could say, “I embrace change in the workplace and am always eager to learn new skills. In my previous role, my team had to switch to remote work unexpectedly, and I quickly became an expert in using remote collaboration tools to keep the team on track.”

Empathy is a valuable trait to demonstrate during an interview. A good answer that highlights empathy could be, “I’ve found that my ability to empathize with others allows me to build strong relationships with team members and clients. I actively listen to their concerns and strive to understand their experiences, which has helped me adapt my communication style to make others feel comfortable.”

Related: Examples of Empathy (and 38 Empathy Statements)

Enthusiasm can make a significant impact on a hiring manager. When answering what makes you unique, use an example that illustrates your excitement about the role, company, or industry. For example, you could say, “I am genuinely enthusiastic about my work and continuously seek opportunities to expand my knowledge. I recently completed a certification course in digital marketing, even though it wasn’t required for my previous position, because I wanted to deepen my expertise.”

Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution skills are an essential aspect of effective teamwork. Prove your ability to handle difficult situations by sharing an example from a previous job. For example, “I have a strong ability to mediate conflicts and maintain positive team dynamics. In my last job, two coworkers were disagreeing over a project that was causing delays. I stepped in, listened to their concerns, and facilitated a solution that satisfied both parties and got the project back on track.”

Related: How to Choose a Conflict Management Style? [5 Styles with Examples]

By focusing on adaptability, empathy, enthusiasm, or conflict resolution you’ll demonstrate qualities that a hiring manager is likely to find attractive. Use examples from your experience to showcase these traits, and be confident in presenting yourself as a unique candidate.

Skills and Abilities

Technical skills.

When answering “What makes you unique?” in a job interview, you can highlight your technical skills that set you apart. For example:

“I have mastered HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and have successfully built several websites from scratch. This experience makes me a strong candidate for web development roles.”
“I am a certified project manager with a track record of completing projects on time and within budget. This demonstrates my ability to lead a team and ensure success.”
“My experience with data analysis and visualization tools like Tableau and Excel have allowed me to create impactful reports and make data-driven decisions.”

Soft Skills

You should also emphasize your soft skills which contribute to your uniqueness.

“I have excellent time-management skills and can juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. I believe this ability allows me to perform well in high-pressure environments.”
“My communication skills help me effectively convey ideas to colleagues and clients alike. I think this makes me an asset in collaborative projects.”
“I pride myself on my problem-solving abilities, which enables me to approach complex situations with clarity and determination. This skill helps me excel in challenging roles.”

Try to be specific about the skills and abilities you possess and how they contribute to your uniqueness in the workplace. Providing real-life examples of how you’ve applied those skills in your work history can make your answer more convincing and memorable to the interviewer.

The key to answering this question effectively is to focus on your personal strengths and abilities, providing specific examples that demonstrate how your unique qualities will benefit the company. By doing so, you’ll leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of landing the job. Good luck!

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How To Answer “What Makes You Unique?” (+ Sample Answers)

Jeff Gillis 0 Comments

By Jeff Gillis

Updated 6/30/2022.

Uniqueness is a bit of a strange concept. When it comes to the formal definition , something is unique when it exists as the sole example, essentially having no equal. So, when the hiring manager asks, “What makes you unique?” it’s not uncommon to struggle a bit.

Luckily, you don’t have to be the sole example of something to answer this question well. If you’re wondering how to answer “what makes you unique,” here’s how to get headed in the right direction.

Why Do They Ask You “Tell Us What Makes You Unique?”

So, why do hiring managers ask you, “What makes you unique?” Is it to throw you off a bit? Well, maybe a little. But there’s actually more to it than that.

First, your answer gives them insights into what you value in yourself. You’re essentially discussing why you believe you’re special, and the traits or capabilities you decide to showcase can give them potent clues about your personality and skills.

Second, they want to see how you manage stress. Talking about yourself in this manner is, admittedly, uncomfortable, and they want to know if you can navigate the challenge.

Finally, the hiring manager is trying to see if you bring an ability or characteristic to the table that they didn’t explicitly request, but could help you, the team, and the company thrive in an unexpected way.

As the minds at the Balance put it, the hiring manager isn’t just looking at your technical qualifications, but at whether you have “something above and beyond what the other candidates offer, showing that you’ll be a strong addition to the company.” They’re after that bit of something extra, as that could help the organization reach new heights.

How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?”

Take a minute and think of all the answers that pop into your head. Are they quirky traits that set you apart from your friends and family? Are they odd habits that you’ve had since childhood that nobody else seems to have? Is it a skill you’ve always wished you could share on late-night television but never gotten the chance?

Okay, now let’s try that question again, but this time, I’m going to run it through the “What the interviewer is actually asking” filter. Are you ready? Here it is:

“What about you makes you the best candidate for this job?”

Rather than figuring out what makes you unique, think about what value you bring to the company. Now, your list might include valuable things like “I’m highly motivated by a challenge” and “I enjoy working with a team to bring a project to completion.”

This question is meant to find out what makes you valuable both as a person and in the workplace…and why those differences set you apart from the other candidates. Remember, an interviewer’s number one job is to find the best candidate for the position they are hiring for, and your job is to prove to them that you’re the perfect candidate!

Remember, this is just one question the hiring manager could ask you in your interview! That’s why we created an amazing free cheat sheet that will give you word-for-word answers for some of the toughest interview questions you are going to face in your upcoming interview.

Click below to get your free PDF now:

Get Our Job Interview Questions & Answers Cheat Sheet!

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Answering “What Makes You Unique” on a Job Application

Your first encounter with this interview question may come when you are filling out a job application. It is not uncommon for a company to ask you something along the lines of, “In 150 characters or fewer, tell us what makes you unique.”

You really don’t need to overthink this. Everything that we’ve said above still applies. If you want to get the maximum benefit from the answer you give, you just need to ensure that you use the allotted characters you have in an economical way.

The hiring managers want clear, concise thoughts, which is why they put a character limit on it in the first place. So, one major thing to avoid is rephrasing the question in any way. You also want to skip filler words that don’t add any real value to the answer.

The most important thing to remember is to try to focus on unique skills that you have that are the most relevant to the position you are interviewing for. Use the following tips to further help with crafting your answer.

Top 5 Tips for “What Makes You Unique”

1. do your homework.

Start with the job listing itself. Look at what skills are required and match those up with the skills you know you have. Make sure when you answer the question that you work those skills into the conversation through examples.

2. Self-Assess

After you’ve gone over the job posting and your related skills, spend some time asking yourself about what sets you apart from other candidates and write those answers down. Come up with a list of skills or traits that you think are unique to you – and make you a valuable addition to the company – that weren’t listed in the job posting.

3. Reference the Past

Share actual examples from your own work history to back up your answers. Make sure your stories are short, concise, and end on a positive note. Share with your hiring manager not only what makes you unique but how you used that uniqueness in a positive, constructive way.

4. It’s Not All About You

Yes, it’s your interview, but really, it’s all about the company and how you can help them. Do your research on the company ahead of time and come up with solid ways your unique skills and talents can benefit them. Yes, getting the job would help you, but ultimately, it’s always about them.

5. Be Unique

Yes, this question is all about how you’re unique, but it’s all too easy to fall into less than unique answers that your interviewer has already heard a million times.

Instead of saying, “I’m a really hard worker,” say, “I’m driven to complete a task, no matter how difficult.” Forgo “I’m a fast learner” in favor of “I really enjoy learning new things and find that it’s easy for me to pick up on required skills.” And skip “I always go above and beyond” and go with “I truly enjoy excelling and pushing myself. I look forward to tasks where I can learn and grow.”

Then, practice ahead of time. That way, your answers sound smooth and confident.

How NOT to Answer This Question

Now that we’ve shown you the best techniques to answer the “What makes you unique” interview question, we thought we’d go over some of the things you definitely need to avoid when facing this question.

1. Oversharing

Yes, the hiring manager really does want to know what makes you unique, but only so far as it applies to the job. Keep your truly personal details private. Remember, they want to know how your unique skills will help the company, not that you spend your weekends dressing your dog up in accurate period costumes and reenacting major historical battles.

2. Being Generic

We touched on this above, but it really does need to be said twice. While it’s tempting to rush through this question simply because it’s not easy to answer, don’t fall back onto bland, boring answers with no example follow-ups.

3. Being Negative

This question isn’t an opportunity for you to trash on the other job seekers who are applying for the position. Don’t use this as a platform to tell the hiring manager why you’re superior to all those other job seekers in the waiting room. Not only will it make you look petty and shallow, but it also won’t win you any points.

4. Don’t Get “Lost”

Keep your answer short, focused, and relevant. Make sure you use targeted words that highlight your skills and then follow those up with a clear example. Don’t ramble on talking about unrelated skills that have nothing to do with the job or the company you’re interviewing for.

5. Don’t Lie

We say this time and time again in these blogs because it’s critical. Be honest! Don’t come up with a unique skill or trait you don’t actually possess just because you think it’ll get you hired. There’s nothing worse than being hired for a job you can’t actually do or talking about a skill you don’t actually have only to get asked to use it. Be honest!

How to Use the Job Description to Find the Best Traits

At this point, you’ve probably got a solid idea about how to answer the “what makes you unique” interview question. However, it’s wise to go a bit further.

While discussing what sets you apart from other candidates in general is fine, relevancy should be the name of the game. You want to consider, “ What makes me unique that’s also something the hiring manager would value?” By doing that, you’re able to identify unique traits that also improve your position as a candidate.

In most cases, the job description is an excellent resource when you want to tailor your answers to the job. What you want to find is tidbits about the type of candidate they’re after. That means looking beyond the must-have hard skills. Instead, you want to consider what unique characteristics allow you to apply those technical abilities better.

Similarly, you want to highlight unique traits that make you adept at navigating a workplace similar to the hiring manager’s company. Again, that makes you a far stronger candidate.

When it’s time to talk about those unique characteristics, don’t just say what you bring to the table. Instead, think about your past jobs and other past experiences, including educational pursuits , hobbies , volunteer work , and more. Then, find examples that demonstrate your unique traits, as showing is always more effective than telling.

If you want to learn more about how to make any of your interview answers ridiculously relevant, check out our Tailoring Method article for more details.

5 Great Sample Answers

To help you come up with your own answers, here are five “what makes you unique” example answers.

For a position that requires a team leader:

SAMPLE ANSWER:

“I’m particularly adept at working with different personalities and finding a way to motivate people. In my last role, I oversaw a project with a diverse team, including one employee that classically struggled with deadlines. Not only was I able to make sure that everyone worked well together, but I also took time to speak with the one challenging employee and determined that positive feedback was a critical part of their success equation. By going the extra mile to comment on their efforts, they were far more engaged, resulting in the project finishing on time and above expectations.”

For a job that requires ongoing education:

“By nature, I’m incredibly curious, and I love a challenge. That’s part of why I initially studied medicine. Conditions can present in numerous ways, and our understanding of the human body continuously shifts. By pursuing a healthcare career, I get to feed my curiosity daily, both when assisting patients with unique presentations and by furthering my knowledge in emerging areas. In my last role, I was traditionally completed by required credits far sooner than my colleagues and often went further, attending conferences and networking to stay on the cutting-edge. That allowed me to bring valuable knowledge back to my workplace, making it easier for us all to remain ahead.”

For a position where you lack direct experience:

“One thing that makes me unique for this role in human resources is my previous experience in the information technology field. I spent nine years working in a networking position, collaborating with colleagues in a range of specialties. When I pivoted and returned to college to get my degree in human resources, many didn’t see the connection. However, I believe this makes me particularly well-suited for a technical recruiter role, as I understand what it takes to thrive in these positions thanks to my previous experience.”

For roles where a strength that’s a weakness for others provides value:

“One capability that I feel is genuinely unique in this field is my skill with public speaking. I’m incredibly comfortable giving presentations, which is why I was selected to lead training activities and showcase project progress during meetings in my last role. Whether it’s a handful of people or hundreds, I have no issue standing up and sharing knowledge and information whenever the need arises.”

For a job where an unconventional degree is beneficial

“One way that I feel I stand out from other sales professionals is actually my education. While it may not seem like a degree in psychology would provide exceptional value, it taught me a lot about why people make certain decisions and what motivates them to buy. In my last role, I was able to convert 22 percent more leads simply because I could quickly adjust my approach based on the potential buyer’s sentiment and perspective. The ability to pivot my language and adjust my strategy to make them not just comfortable but confident yielded results, something that I can continue doing in my next job.”

Putting It All Together

Remember, when you’re answering the dreaded “What makes you unique” interview question, what you’re really answering is “What makes you the best candidate for this job?” Keep your answers memorable, keep them focused and keep them relevant. Make yourself stand out from the herd by showing your value to the company.

And as always, good luck!

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12 Expert-Approved Responses to ‘What Makes You Unique?’ in Job Interviews

Published: April 25, 2024

Interview Questions and Answers

Actionable advice from real experts:

Biron Clark

Former Recruiter

Contributor

Dr. Kyle Elliott

Career Coach

Hayley Jukes

Editor-in-Chief

Biron Clark , Former Recruiter

Kyle Elliott , Career Coach

Hayley Jukes , Editor

Hiring managers interview many candidates for each job , so they want to hear what makes you unique from the other candidates. Lacking an impressive, confident answer can cost you the opportunity.

Drawing from my recruiting experience and insights from seasoned career coaches, this guide offers clear strategies and real-life sample answers to help you articulate your unique strengths effectively.

Reflect on your experiences to find what sets you apart, aligning it with the job role.
Understand the company and role you’re applying for, personalizing your response to show how your uniqueness benefits them.
Use concrete examples to demonstrate how your unique quality has contributed to your success in past roles or projects.

Understanding the Question: Why Recruiters Ask ‘What Makes You Unique?

“What makes you unique?” isn’t a trick interview question, and there isn’t one right answer.

Hiring managers often ask this question to:

Assess your company fit.
Identify what you bring to the table beyond technical skills.
Understand your personality better.
Gauge compatibility with the team and organization.

The aim here is to get you talking about what you bring to the company.

There may be something the hiring manager doesn’t know about you . They want to learn a bit more than what’s on your resume. Maybe you have a unique ability or soft skills that other candidates are missing.

Even if not, this question is a chance to show that you understand the job description and the employer’s requirements for the role, and then demonstrate why you’re qualified.

The main reasons why recruiters ask this question are to get a better idea about your communication skills, to get your perspective on how successful your career has been so far, and to get a better sense of your suitability for the respective job or organization.

Your response gives a snapshot of your career intentions and showcases your unique skills in a way that aligns with the job. It’s not just about what you’ve done, but how you present it—that can set you apart from the rest.

Pre-Interview Preparation: Expert Tips for Answering ‘What Makes You Unique?

To keep your answer clear and concise, I recommend responding to this interview question with one single skill or trait that makes you unique.

You can mention unique technical skills/hard skills, soft skills , key personality traits, experiences, personal attributes, or any other factor that makes you an exceptional candidate… and different from other job seekers.

To feel fully prepared before the interview, follow my advice below:

Self-Reflect and Prepare

Look back at your career or the time you spent in college. What were your biggest successes? What were you proudest of? Some of the top skills or accomplishments you could mention include:

Innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Adaptability
Social intelligence and conflict resolution
Exceptional digital technology proficiency
Organizational proficiency
Creativity and resourcefulness
Public speaking skills
Consistent conflict management ability
Bias for action
Intellectual curiosity
Strong work ethic
Excellent follow-up ability
Trainability: the ability to acquire new knowledge effortlessly

Take Your Time When Answering

There’s no need to answer too quickly or rush your response when asked what makes you unique. This is a tricky question and it’s completely acceptable to say,

“That’s a great question. Let me think for a second. I want to give you a good response here.”

Doing this gives you time to consider the company’s values, the hiring manager’s attitude/personality, and any topics or job requirements you’ve already discussed in this job interview.

Personalize Your Responses

The list mentioned above is great but it does sound generic. In order to impress, you have to explain how that unique skill is going to be an asset for the organization you’re pursuing a job with.

Study the job description and always go through as much information about the company as you can find.

Knowing how your skills fit the job and the company’s culture shows you’ve really thought about your role and where you fit in, which is a step above just doing basic company research.

Bill Burnett , Co-Director of the Stanford d.school says

Don’t just tell them you’re unique, tell them how it benefits them. Explain how your unique skills or experiences can address a specific company need or contribute to their culture.

Customizing Your Response: Align Your Answer with the Job Description

To give you even more clarity, let’s take a look at a job ad and how your response can be personalized within its context.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and curate engaging content for various social platforms
Oversee and manage multiple social media projects with overlapping deadlines
Innovate and brainstorm campaign strategies with a creative team
Analyze social media metrics to guide strategy and decision-making

What You’ll Bring:

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
Proven experience managing projects with a detail-oriented approach
Creative and strategic thinking with a knack for developing unique campaign ideas
Proficiency with social media analytics tools and interpreting data effectively

This job description for a Social Media Manager asks for:

Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to create compelling SM content
Strong PM skills and ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
Creative thinking to innovate bright new ideas for SM campaigns
SM analytics experience

This role has several skill requirements so the question “What makes you unique?” should be answered in a way that incorporates all of these skills:

“What makes me unique is my ability to stay focused, effective, and creative under pressure. I’m able to generate consistently strong original ideas for social media posts and campaigns, even while managing multiple social media calendars and goals at once.

I collate advanced analytics from a wide range of sources to set the right goals and generate the right impact at the right time.

As a part of my past experience, I’ve managed multiple campaigns, adapting my style to address the client’s requirements. I’ve employed innovative approaches and measured their impact to give clients data-driven solutions perfectly aligned with their outreach objectives.”

12 Expert-Approved Sample Answers to ‘What Makes You Unique?’

Here are twelve examples of how you could answer “What makes you unique?”

Example Answer: Communication Skills

“One trait that I feel makes me unique is my ability to get along with all types of people and personalities. I’ve worked in retail customer service, all the way up to managing large enterprise client accounts in my last job. I can relate to a construction worker just as easily, as I can connect and relate to a corporate lawyer or doctor.

I saw that your job description for this role emphasizes communication skills , and I’ve read about the variety of clients that your business serves. So, that’s one reason I feel I’m a strong candidate for the role and may have some unique skills and background that other candidates don’t bring.”

Why This Answer Works

The answer highlights the candidate’s ability to get along with all kinds of people, as well as their customer service experience. It’s specific while also shedding some light on relevant previous work history.

Example Answer 2: Multi-Disciplinary Approach

“One of my unique skills is that I’m a former software developer . I moved into product design because I’m more passionate about this area, but I’m still able to write code and scripts to automate tasks, and I still approach challenges and obstacles through an engineer’s mindset .

I perform tests and I make decisions based on data. This data-driven approach sets me apart from many other designers and makes me a unique candidate for your Senior Design Lead role.”

The ability to apply a set of skills from one industry to another is a unique advantage.

Example Answer 3: Public Speaking Ability

Note: This is an example of one of the “what makes you unique” sample answers for students that will be ideal for people lacking professional experience:

“One of the skills that makes me unique is my public speaking ability. I enjoy giving presentations. I’ve spoken in front of hundreds of people at my college. I was a part of my college debate team, too.

I also led weekly intern meetings during both of my internships before I graduated, and I genuinely enjoy talking in front of a crowd.

As I look to find my first full-time, permanent position after graduating, I look forward to finding ways to use this skill in my career. I saw your job description for this role mentions giving sales presentations to clients, so that’s one area where I feel I’d immediately excel.”

The answer shows some confidence in one’s abilities, even if the candidate doesn’t have an extensive history. It’s detailed and very relevant, perfectly aligned with the skill set the recruiter is looking for.

Example Answer 4: Soft Skills

“I have an unusual combination of soft skills that I feel makes me unique. I’m constantly seeking to improve, learn from my mistakes, and challenge myself.

I’m exceptionally organized in terms of tracking my results, progress, and any trends in my work and output. I’m able to find potential learning opportunities and lessons, spot potential problems before they become larger issues, and steadily improve. I use challenges as a learning experience and try to turn the occasional small mistake into a huge positive, rather than dwelling on it as a negative. In past jobs, my managers often complimented my ability to learn quickly, perform well without needing constant supervision, and remain calm even when something didn’t go my way. So that’s the unique skill set that I bring to the role.”

The response uses the opportunity to mention not just one unique skill but a number of those: organization ability, performance evaluation, learning, problem-solving, etc.

Example Answer 5: Leadership

“I think that my unique skill is project leadership. I have a natural ability to lead numerous tasks and projects , whether as the direct team leader or project coordinator. I think this comes from my combination of strong organizational skills and interpersonal skills . I’ve always enjoyed leadership and working in a team environment and hope to continue finding companies that value collaboration.

I reviewed the job listing and it seemed to me that your company values hiring people with a collaborative mindset, and people who can grow in the organization and take on more leadership over time, so this role seemed like a great potential fit.”

The answer pinpoints some unique skills and it also explains how these can be used to achieve growth and performance enhancement within the organization.

Even if an employer doesn’t directly ask, “Why are you applying to this job,” it’s a nice touch to end an interview answer by explaining why you feel their job is a good match. Doing this shows research, thoughtfulness, and preparation. You can see this in the sample answer above, which ends by saying, “…so this role seemed like a great potential fit.”

Example Answer 6: Problem-Solving

“I have a really well-established and well-practiced problem-solving methodology . However, my systematic approach doesn’t prevent me from brainstorming highly creative solutions when the situation calls for them . My skill in this area has seen me promoted to numerous team-leadership roles , as I’m able to generate ideas and delegate tasks to get a problem solved faster. As a result, I’ve ended up saving a great deal of money for the companies that have employed me.

I believe my critical thinking and problem-solving will work really well within the fast-paced day-to-day settings linked to this job. I’m confident in my ability to think quickly and make optimal decisions bound to turn challenging situations into opportunities.”

Not only does the answer present the interviewee’s biggest strength, it also emphasizes the fact they’re flexible and ready to get their approach properly aligned with the current processes within the organization.

Example Answer 7: Teamwork

“What makes me unique is my heartfelt belief that success in this industry and this role is dependent on outstanding teamwork . I see immense value in diverse perspectives and ideas and believe that every single team member has a lot to offer. That’s why I make it my business to set the stage for strong collaboration by helping team members find their voice and realize their potential, by motivating others to act, and by building my teammates up through constant feedback, celebration, and support.”

The answer shows precisely how the candidate’s unique skill applies to the new work environment. It details specific advantages that the entire team can experience as a result of hiring that person.

Example Answer 8: Work Ethic

“What makes me unique is my sense of professionalism and work ethic . My career is of the utmost importance to me and, as such, I take immense pride in my work, believing that the work I produce is an expression of the kind of person I am.

I believe that there is always room to develop, up-skill, and sharpen my delivery . I compete with myself day in and day out, always striving to do better than I did before. In fact, I only see it as a job well done if I know I’ve grown and improved on my past performance.”

This candidate expresses confidence in the skills they already have. At the same time, it suggests the person is open to new learning opportunities, something that most recruiters value.

Example Answer 9: Ambition

“What makes me unique is my ambitious drive and inability to function without continuously striving for and achieving new goals.

Having worked at two industry-related businesses in the past 10 years, I’ve been promoted six times thanks to my d iligent self-challenges, adherence to setting and achieving each of my goals, and ability to act on initiative with minimal guidance .

In the shorter term, my ambition makes me well suited to complex, high-priority tasks, as I’m driven to meet briefs and deadlines, while constantly upping my skills and standard of work in the process.”

Apart from pinpointing unique skills, the answer seamlessly mentions some amazing accomplishments the candidate achieved within their previous line of employment.

Example Answer 10: Adaptability

“ I have a strong passion for learning and experiencing new things . It’s a passion that’s made me highly adaptable. I get excited about discovering new trends, mastering new tools, and adapting quickly to diverse tasks/situations without skipping a beat.

I have a strong belief in my ability to master any skill or succeed on any task, no matter how new or challenging it may seem to me. This belief makes me highly versatile and successful in a fast-paced setting because I don’t waste time doubting myself or stressing about the newness of things, I simply get them done.”

This answer tells the recruiter that the candidate is willing to do whatever it takes to optimize their performance within the organization. An eagerness to learn is incredibly valuable, being open to new ways of doing work often trumps other specialized skills.

Example Answer 11: Growth Mindset

“My biggest strength is the growth mindset I’ve always had. It has kept me curious and open to new opportunities. Throughout my professional journey, I’ve been eager to learn and evolve. I really enjoy acquiring new skills and finding a practical application for the know-how ‘ve accumulated.

This mindset has enabled me to continue evolving. I’ve used every mistake as a stepping stone that has taken me closer to my ultimate career goal. Even today, I continue cultivating unique skills that make it easier to pursue unconventional career paths reliant on out-of-the-box thinking.”

The answer is especially well-suited to the needs of people looking into non-traditional career paths. It demonstrates an open mind and a desire to keep on learning that can prove to be exceptionally valuable career-wise.

Example Answer 12: Empathy

“I used the time spent away from professional settings to strengthen my soft skills, especially empathy. The volunteering work I did over the past year helped me sharpen my understanding of others, their motivators, and the ways they pursue goals. I am confident in my ability to collaborate and motivate coworkers to perform to the best of their ability. My skills make me very good at reading people and situations accurately, and identifying opportunities and risks whenever these manifest themselves.”

The answer is a great choice for someone attempting to re-enter the workforce after a break. It tells the recruiter how the candidate used their time off to acquire skills and also demonstrates a proactive approach toward seizing new opportunities.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls: What Not to Say When Asked ‘What Makes You Unique?’

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Kyle Elliott , MPA, CHES Tech & Interview Career Coach caffeinatedkyle.com

Avoid the Trap of Only Listing Qualifications

One of the biggest mistakes interviewees make is only sharing how they’re qualified for a role without highlighting what sets them apart from other candidates.

If you’ve made it to the interview stage, it’s evident that you’re qualified, and now it’s your time to showcase how you’re distinct from the other applicants. Importantly, though, you want to back up your claims with examples and results. Anyone can make a claim, but you’ll be a more memorable interviewee if you back it up with a powerful story.

When answering this interview question, it’s best to give detailed, specific examples. Notice how in the sample answers above, narrow and precise skills were named. The bottom line is:

You want to avoid general claims like, “I’m a hard worker” and instead be more specific.

Why does this matter? Every job seeker claims to be a hard worker. They make many general claims like that. Hiring managers are tired of hearing that every candidate is a hard worker.

Second, a general, non-specific answer doesn’t paint a clear picture in the hiring manager’s mind of how you’ll help them if you’re hired for the position. Give more specific examples to show why you’re truly the best candidate and how you can contribute to the organization.

Example: Instead of saying, “I’m very organized” and ”I’m a hard worker,” (which is not unique at all) you could say:

“One thing that makes me unique is my organizational skills. I get excited about anything to do with organization. I love creating systems, templates, and other tools to save time and make me more effective at work. In my last job, I used this to save two hours per day by creating a new scheduling and follow-up system for interacting with customers.”

This answer is more compelling to a hiring manager because:

A concrete example has been provided
It shows that you have read and understood the job description and role
You’ve explained how your uniqueness can add value and contribute to the company

Share more detail and be more specific in your resume, interview answers , and cover letter (if you send one), and you’ll make more hiring managers see you as an ideal candidate.

Other Interview Resources

For even more interview prep help and to make sure you nail that first impression, check out these extra resources.

Why are you the best candidate for this position?
What sets you apart from other candidates?
What is your greatest strength?
Powerful job interview tips

About the Author

Biron Clark is a former executive recruiter who has worked individually with hundreds of job seekers, reviewed thousands of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and recruited for top venture-backed startups and Fortune 500 companies. He has been advising job seekers since 2012 to think differently in their job search and land high-paying, competitive positions. Follow on Twitter and LinkedIn .

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How To Answer “What Makes You Unique?” (With Examples)

How To Answer Tell Me About Yourself?
Elevator Pitch
Where Do You See Yourself In 5 Years?
What Are Your Career Goals?
When Can You Start?
How Do You Define Success?
Describe Your Work Ethic
Where Are Your Current Duties?
What Are Your Learning Goals?
Intrinsic Vs Extrinsic Motivation
What Is Your Desired Salary?
What Makes You Unique?
Why Are You The Best Person For This Job?
Reasons For Termination
What Are Your Work Values
How To Make A Hard Decision?
What Are You Most Proud Of?
Personal Code Of Ethics
Problem Solving Interview Questions
Taking Initiative Example
How Do You Prioritize Your Work
Explain Gaps In Employment
Most Rewarding College Experience
What Is Your Work Style
Tell Me About A Time When You Made A Mistake On The Job
Tell Me About Gaps In Employment
What Are You Passionate About
What Skills Would You Bring To The Job
Who Is Your Mentor?
How To Answer Tell Me About A Time You Disagreed With Your Boss
How To Answer Common Screening Questions

Find a Job You Really Want In

Interviewers love to ask “What makes you unique?” because they are looking to see how you talk about yourself and what unique skills and qualifications you have that set you apart from the crowd.

To help you answer what the interviewers are looking for, we’ll go over how to answer “What makes you unique?”, and provide some what makes you unique sample answers. We will also go over some tips to keep in mind as well as some mistakes to avoid when answering.

Key Takeaways:

When answering “What makes you unique from others?” you need to be prepared, answer with job specifics, and use examples from previous jobs.

When answering the question keep the answer work-related and not something from your personal life.

When hiring managers and recruiters ask this question, they’re most interested in what you bring to the role and why you would be a better choice than another candidate.

How to answer “What makes you unique?”

Example answers to “what makes you unique”, why interviewers ask “what makes you unique”, tips for answering “what makes you unique”, common mistakes to avoid when answering “what makes you unique”, “what makes you unique” faqs, final thoughts.

When you’re asked “What makes you different, unique, or odd,” you should answer with what makes you a unique hire over your competition for the position. Suddenly, your answer about being able to touch your nose with your tongue seems wildly out of place.

Here is a detailed list of how to answer questions about what makes you unique:

Prepare. You’re doing it now, and that’s going to help you when it comes time to interview. Don’t just prepare your answers, but do some research in preparation, too. Carefully read the job description to determine what qualities are most necessary to succeed in the role.

Be job-specific. Part of your research should be about the company and what they value. You should also learn about the role. If you know they’re a small company and the employees wear a lot of hats (figuratively speaking), then stress how you’re an incredible multitasker and willing to work outside your professional box.

Consider the compliments you’ve received. Think back on the strengths that have served you well in the past and what former supervisors have had to say about your performance. You can also drop the professional bit and just think about what qualities people most appreciate about you. Don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for ideas if you’re not sure.

Use examples. What have you done that can illustrate your skills? For example, if you’ve had the opportunity to interview an A-list celebrity, you can use this to show how you did something that made you very nervous but afterward, you learned that we’re all people. It made you a more confident interviewer.

Tie it to work. If your “unique” trait is that you spent a year backpacking across Europe, find a way to tie it to the job you want. Maybe you can explain how you love learning new things and spent a year traveling to immerse yourself in new cultures.

Boring can be perfect. If you think that you’re just not interesting enough, remember the question isn’t about how exciting you are. If you rush home every night to work on a hobby, that’s a wonderful answer. It tells the employer that you’re detail-oriented, passionate, and committed to completing projects.

Here are a few what makes you unique sample answers for different scenarios to help you come up with your own answer:

Tell us something about yourself which makes you special example answer

“I am an avid fly fisherman and have been doing it my whole life. I learned it from my father, and it taught me that attention to detail, patience, and perseverance are important qualities. When things are difficult, I’ve learned to keep my head down and focus like I do when I’m fishing or tying a fly. I can get through and usually catch my fish.” Why it works: This answer does a great job of showing the interviewee as a person. It paints a picture of a solid, well-adjusted person with strong family ties. Then it displays some characteristics that could be crucial for the job at hand.

“I am a marathon runner and triathlete. I love setting big goals for myself and achieving them. I find that these personal challenges help me grow in ways I would never have expected. And the sense of self-satisfaction is incredible.” Why it works: This interviewee doesn’t try to tie their uniqueness to work at all, and yet, it happens on its own.

“I don’t have a college degree, like most people in this position and probably most people you’re hiring. Instead, I have worked my way up from a customer service job to management. I’ve learned the ins and outs of every job along the way, and that’s what makes me an excellent manager. I know this business as few people do.” Why it works: Wow, right? This answers the question perfectly. It is what makes them unique. They turned something that they know doesn’t look great on paper into a huge positive.

“I am a foster parent and am currently fostering two wonderful children. I also have two kids of my own. I’m always busy and often mediating fights, but it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my life.” Why this works: This managerial candidate shows that they not only can manage on the job but that it’s ingrained in who they are. There’s also a note of genuine compassion in the response. Finally, they love this type of work and choose to have a life in which their skills are put to use on a daily basis.

“I have a degree in archeology but never worked a day in the field after college. I know this sounds odd, and it’s my true passion, but turning it into a job felt like taking the joy out of it. Instead, I use my analytical skills and attention to detail to dig into financial reports.” Why this works: Suddenly, the job of a field auditor for an accounting firm sounds more interesting. Again, taking a point that sounds out of place on paper and turning it into something that makes your candidate outstanding is exactly what this question is designed to do.

“I’m a people person. I thrive in social environments and find that people are naturally drawn to me. This is my happy place.” Why this works: A simple statement might not mean much if the person were applying for a job as a night janitor , but it means a lot for a potential customer service representative or a party planner .

“I was in politics when I was younger. When I was 18, I was elected mayor of my hometown. This made me the youngest mayor ever elected in our state, but I decided politics wasn’t for me. I enjoyed working with people and loved the entire election process. It was the best education I could have given myself at the time. Now, I love to teach others and share my story so they can go for their dreams, no matter their age.” Why this works: Can you guess what position this person is applying for? Yes, they are a teacher , and what an incredible story. Even if they weren’t elected, just the gumption to go after a dream and learn from it is something that can benefit the students in a fresh and novel way.

“What makes you unique?” example answers for specific job opportunities:

“What makes you unique?” for a deadline-driven job example answer

I think my capacity to remain calm in stressful situations is what makes me unique. From my first high-school job flipping burgers to my last job working as an editor for a newspaper, time management has always been an important factor in my work. Past supervisors have commented on my ability to keep a cool head under pressure, which makes my coworkers, as well as any clients present, feel more confident in our ability to get the job done on time.

“What makes you unique?” for a customer-facing job example answer

I’ve been told that my ability to hold conversations with anyone from anywhere is what makes me unique. Whenever I move to a new neighborhood, whether that was in Madrid, Buenos Aires, or right here in San Jose, I make it a point to meet and know my neighbors. I like to be a source of aid for those around me, and it really makes me smile to help someone find a solution.

“What makes you unique?” for a recent college graduate example answer

I believe my ability to adapt to new challenges and experiences has made me unique. I had the ability to study abroad and participate in leadership roles within different organizations. This has taught me to think on my feet and be flexible for any challenge that came my way. My time studying abroad gave me a new global perspective while allowing me to have a better understanding of the interconnectedness and a willingness to embrace diverse perspectives.

Interviewers ask “What makes you unique?” to get an understanding as to why you think you are the best person for the job. They already think you might be a good fit because they’re interviewing you. It’s your job to tell them why you’re the best and quite probably the only person for the job. That means you need to stand out from all of the other applicants they’ve interviewed.

This question is very popular, and it’s quite tricky to answer. That’s why hiring managers ask it. It’s a question that typically throws people off their game a little. You know they’re going to ask about your assets and your faults. But did you expect them to ask what makes you unique?

Quick, off the top of your head, what answer would you give? Is your answer about your personality? Maybe you’ve thought of a strange quirk or an interesting hobby that you have. While those things are great, they’re not what the interviewer is looking for.

This is a personality interview question that can tell them a bit more about you, but it can also tell them what you value about yourself. What you see as something interesting in yourself tells them quite a bit about how you’ll be as an employee and as a coworker.

The best way to answer questions is to think about what you’d want to hear if you were the interviewer and then be as honest as possible . These tips will help you craft your answers and keep you on track when you’re in the job interview :

Be succinct, don’t ramble

Try to answer quickly but don’t interrupt the interviewer

Try to keep answers work-related and not about your personal life

Know what the company wants from its employees and mirror their language

Keep eye contact as much as possible

Watch out for non-verbal nervousness , looking at the ground, shaking legs, etc.

Listen to the question ; don’t anticipate too much

You should avoid saying anything deeply personal or anything negative. Here are some more things you don’t want to say in an interview – even if it is what makes you unique:

Something deeply personal. You don’t want to be too intimate with a potential employer or a hiring manager. You also never want to make someone feel uncomfortable. Just like when you discuss your interests or hobbies outside of work, you should aim to keep things surface-level unless the interviewer probes for more detail.

Don’t be negative. Make your answer as positive as possible. Even if it has to do with a negative event, then explain how it made you better or you overcame it. But really, this is the sort of softball question that doesn’t require you to dive into your weaknesses or mistakes, so take advantage of the opportunity to stress your strengths instead.

Skip the odd human tricks. Your weird party trick might pop into your head first – quickly discard that and move on to something legitimate for the workplace. Save the stupid tricks for the office holiday party.

No show and tell. If your unique answer sounds like a kid giving a show-and-tell presentation – skip it. Remember that all interview answers should be kept fairly brief, and this one is more than most. A few quick sentences are all you need to sketch what makes you a unique candidate.

Nothing. You’ve got to come up with some answer to the question. You can’t just say, “Meh, I’m exactly like everyone else.” You can do better than that, and you know it.

Avoid lying or stretching the truth. If you don’t have anything you think that makes you unique, don’t make something up. It might sound like a good idea at the time but that lie could come back and haunt you.

What are five things that make you unique?

Five things that make you unique are:

Experience. You are the product of many experiences built upon one another, which inevitably makes you unique. This is true for both your external experience in the physical world and your internal experience of your own thoughts and emotions.

Perspective. Based on your life experience, how you view the world is different than everyone else.

Communication. The way you go about communicating with others with have slight characteristics that set you apart from others, such as in the words you choose, how you phrase them, and even in your body language.

Interests. Although you might share interests with others, you have your own unique reasons for having them.

Goals. Similar to interests, you may have shared goals with others, but your goals are specific to your life.

What makes you stand out from other candidates?

Be specific with how your values, skills, and experience add up to stand out from other candidates. Your answer should show that you are both highly and uniquely qualified for the job. You want to make the type of impression that sticks in people’s memories long after they have met other candidates.

What are unique professional skills?

Unique professional skills would be anything relevant to the job that other candidates do not have. Some examples of unique professional skills would be:

Fluency in multiple languages.

Certified from accredited institutions.

Advanced or specific technical knowledge.

High-pressure conflict resolution skills.

Diverse interpersonal skills.

How do I figure out what makes me unique?

To figure out what makes you unique, you can:

Keep a journal. A journal will help you track your days. Over time you can begin to notice patterns that define you as a unique individual.

Ask friends and family. Those close to you will have their own thoughts about what makes you unique. Consider giving them an anonymous survey so that they can speak freely.

Imagine what a perfect day looks like for you. This image will reveal certain characteristics specific to you.

Focus on your goals. Your goals will make you unique, so consider what they are.

Reflect on your past. Your past has made you unique. Look back and figure out how your life has been different than everyone else.

How to answer “What makes you unique?” in an interview?

When answering questions about what makes you unique, you should think of the skills and qualifications that help set you apart from other candidates. These skills and qualifications should be job specific and you should relate them to how you would succeed in the job.

The best way to show an interviewer how you are unique is to use examples from your past experiences. This could include compliments you have received or how you succeeded in projects.

Now that you have your “unique” question answer ready – you’re good to go, right? Not a chance. There are a ton of questions you might run into during your interview. It’s good to prepare for all of them equally. Consider your answers to these questions, too:

What sets you apart from other candidates ?

Is there anything else we should know about you ?

What motivates you ?

Why should we hire you instead of somebody else ?

Why do you want this job ?

How would your friends describe you ?

Tell me about yourself ?

U.S. Department of Labor – Interview Tips

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Employment Interviewing: Seizing the Opportunity and the Job

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Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

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How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?” – Interview Question Examples & Insights

18 min read · Updated on May 15, 2024

Use these top interview question examples to answer this challenging question!

Differentiating yourself from rival candidates can be one of the biggest challenges you'll face during any job search. That's especially true when your skills and experiences are roughly comparable to those of other job seekers.

Fortunately, many interviewers will provide you with an opportunity to separate yourself from the crowd by asking some variation of the question, “What makes you unique?” Before you answer that question, though, you should familiarize yourself with interview question examples that can help you practice your response.

In this guide, we'll explain why interviewers ask this question and the types of responses that they're looking for. We'll also offer some helpful tips that you can use to structure an effective answer and provide interview question examples and answers that you can use to ensure that your response makes the right impression on your interviewer.

Why do employers ask the question, “What makes you unique?”

Before you can effectively use interview question examples and responses, it's important to understand why employers ask questions about what makes you unique. At first glance, this is the type of question that could easily be misinterpreted as an opportunity to talk about your life, worldview, or hobbies. However, when an interviewer gives you a chance to talk about this topic, what they really want to hear is why you're the best candidate for the job.

The key thing to remember here is that your interviewer is looking for an answer that focuses on your understanding of your own value.

Do you have specific strengths that make you an ideal fit for the job?

Is there something about your work style that might make you a better candidate than any of your rivals?

Are there things in your resume that you can further highlight to reinforce your superior qualifications?

Do your strengths and work style align well with the company's workplace culture and overall mission?

The key takeaway here is that your answer to any questions about what makes you unique should be focused on character traits, skills, and experiences that demonstrate your potential value as an employee. If you can emphasize those vital qualifications, you should have no problem creating an answer that satisfies the employer's curiosity.

Related reading : How to Answer “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

Tips for creating an effective response to the question, “What makes you unique?”

Before we explore some of the best interview question examples and possible responses to this challenging question, let's take a few moments to consider tips that can help you craft your answers.

By following these simple expert recommendations, you can create several possible responses that highlight your unique qualifications. That will help maximize your chances of making the best possible

1. Review the job posting to identify the employer's needs

Before you formulate any answers in preparation for a job interview, it's vital to thoroughly examine the job posting and role description. Take the time to identify which specific needs the employer is attempting to fulfill with this position.

What role will you be expected to play in furthering the company's vision and mission? Once you have the answer to this key question, you can then focus on how your professional skills and experiences can help meet those needs.

For example, let's say that the job posting lists several necessary skills but also mentions the company's current interest in expanding its customer base to new markets. You can create a response that focuses on how you've used those required skills to build teams that successfully expanded a company's brand and product line into new markets. Your answer could emphasize your unique ability to create collaborative work dynamics that promote a shared commitment to meeting expansion goals.

2. Consider your professional experience and achievements

While you want to craft answers that address the employer's needs, the core information in your responses should be based on your own professional experience and accomplishments. Review your work history to identify specific situations in which employers offered you praise for your efforts and achievements. Those experiences can provide all the fodder you need to craft compelling responses to questions like these.

Some of those experiences may be directly tied to financial gains you've provided to previous employers. Others may have involved changes that you've implemented to improve productivity, reduce inefficiency, or aid in customer retention. Take note of each of these important experiences and related achievements so that you can be prepared to reference them during an interview.

3. Write down a list of your top traits and skills

Each time you've achieved something of value for an employer, you've used specific talents and character traits – abilities and characteristics that can make you an attractive hiring prospect. It can be helpful to compile a list of those skills and traits to guide you as you create a response that explains why you're uniquely qualified for a given role.

What abilities have you used to increase an employer's revenue and profits?

Do you have specific skills that have helped you to lead and inspire others to achieve great results for their company?

Which of your personality traits enable you to solve your employers' challenges and further the company's mission?

As you create your list, think in terms of the type of value you can bring to the position, and how the employer will directly benefit from your presence on their team.

4. De-emphasize the word “unique” and focus on relevance

One reason this type of question can be confusing for so many job seekers is that they're put off by the word “unique” and misinterpret its meaning. As we noted, employers aren't really interested in the things that make you a unique individual. They're not interested in hiring you because of your love for obscure 16th century poetry, after all. What they are interested in is learning whether your qualifications and fitness for the role make you the best candidate for the job.

So, when an interviewer asks you to explain why you're unique, try to filter that word out of your mind and instead respond with an answer that demonstrates you're capable of meeting the company's needs.

To do that, make sure you have a prepared answer that is wholly relevant to the job you're seeking, the company's culture, and the positive benefits that you can offer if you're hired.

Related reading : How To Prepare for Company Culture-Fit Interview Questions

5. Focus your answer on how your skills helped you achieve something of value

Remember that list of skills and character traits that we had you create?

You should reference that list as you create responses to interview questions like these. Try to create simple responses that tell a story about how you've used those skills to create value – focusing on narratives that the interviewer should find compelling and relevant for the job you're seeking.

For example, if you're interviewing for a job in a marketing role, you should craft answers that are relevant to that position. You likely won't want to focus on your achievements as a line worker in a manufacturing plant since those accomplishments won't have any relation to the marketing company's needs. Instead, provide an answer related to your prior marketing activities, sales results, or management achievements.

In addition, remember to use real numbers wherever possible. Did your achievement increase company revenue by 15%? Then, make sure you include that result to provide clear evidence of how you added real value to the company's bottom line.

Do the same thing for other types of achievements – whether you reduced costs by a certain percentage or amount, eliminated inefficiencies, increased productivity, or added a certain number of new customers. Quantify those results.

6. Be specific

Finally, craft an answer that is focused on specifics. Don't just provide a quick response that lists a skill or two that make you a great candidate. Take some time to explain why those skills matter, how you developed them, and how you've used them in a productive and effective way.

Expert Tip: Vague answers about your unique qualifications are likely to be viewed as less credible than a more detailed and energized response.

This is why we recommend illustrating your skills with real examples drawn from your experience and achievements. The more detailed and specific you can be, the more credibility you'll have with your audience. And remember: the goal is not to demonstrate you're a one-of-a-kind job prospect. The goal is to convince the employer that your qualifications set you apart from every other candidate for the position.

“What makes you unique?” Interview question examples and possible answers

As promised, it's time to consider some interview question examples and hypothetical responses that you can use to answer different variations of the “What makes you unique?” question. Below, we've gathered some great examples of responses you can use to effectively answer the uniqueness question by focusing on different skills and traits that you possess.

Example 1: Leadership

“My leadership abilities have helped set me apart throughout my career. I'm intently focused on helping every member of my team reach their full potential, maximize our collective results, and further our common mission to advance our employer's interests. By emphasizing team member empowerment to inspire and motivate them to push their own boundaries, I've been able to forge teams that consistently surpass expectations.

During my time as project manager at TechStuff, Inc., I designed and implemented a mentoring plan that created bonded working relationships between experienced programmers and new talent. That helped create stronger working relationships in our department, but also led to a 33% increase in project productivity, a 22% reduction in cost overruns, and a 19% boost in reported customer satisfaction.”

Example 2: Problem-solving

“What makes me unique? The first thing that comes to mind is my ability to recognize problems and do the work necessary to create innovative solutions in rapid fashion. In my experience, we don't always have time to spend days or weeks solving unexpected challenges, so being able to quickly identify the root causes of any problem and devise a workable solution is vital for maintaining operational efficiency.

For example, just last year we ran into a situation where we saw a drop in production for all our teams. After a quick but in-depth review of the entire production process, I identified an interdepartmental communication failure that was adding days to our process time. After sitting down with the department heads, I was able to help them eliminate the logjam, create a smoother process, and improve our production time by more than 30%.”

Example 3: Analytical skills

“In my previous roles as an analyst, I've developed some unique analytical skills that have proved invaluable in dealing with a variety of challenges – including unexpected problems. Those skills help me examine any complex situation, break problems and issues down into their component parts, and analyze each of those parts to see how they contribute to the whole. Using that process enables me to quickly assess any situation, identify potential problem areas, and come up with creative solutions to resolve issues.

Those same analytical skills helped me conduct an analysis of the technology platforms at ABC Corp., during my recent employment as the company's IT Director. After performing an exhaustive review of our entire system workflow, I was able to identify several key hardware and software weaknesses that were impeding the company's operational effectiveness. After recommending and implementing core technology upgrades, we enjoyed a 30% improvement in efficiency, response time, and overall data accuracy.”

Example 4: Interpersonal skills

“If I had to focus on just one unique quality that may separate me from my competition, it would be my people skills. In my view, everything we do in our industry is done with people in mind. Whether it's our relationships with colleagues, superiors, vendors, or clients, people must come first if we're going to achieve our collective vision and mission. Because of that mindset, I've dedicated my career to building strong relationships, forging powerful teams, and doing everything I can to improve experiences for all stakeholders.

My conflict resolution skills are a great example of that commitment. Two years ago, one of our biggest clients had a major dispute with her assigned account manager – a dispute that could have cost us a $10 million account. Our CEO assigned me to resolve the conflict, so I immediately began a campaign to restore her trust in our services. It took several meetings and many hours of open communication, but I eventually solved her issues and inspired her to maintain her business relationships with the firm.”

Example 5: Teamwork

“One of my strongest attributes is my unique love for collaboration as part of a team. That appreciation for the power of teamwork was forged in my youth and strengthened over time by my participation in various sports and subsequent time in the armed forces. As a result, I'm always mindful that a group of committed professionals, working toward a common goal, can achieve far more than any individual – if you know how to harness each team member's unique talents and expertise to drive mission progress.

Those teamwork skills have been invaluable in my prior roles as team leader, project manager, and departmental manager. As an example, I led a recent project that required me to build a team of more than forty professionals, each with their own unique area of expertise. By identifying their strengths and effectively delegating appropriate roles to each team member, I was able to help that group reach our project goals seven days early and $20,000 under budget, satisfying our client and our superiors.”

Related reading : How to Effectively Answer the 10 Most Common Interview Questions About Your Teamwork Skills

Example 6: Focus on details

“Co-workers have often commented on my unique attention to details and getting things right the first time. I was raised with an understanding that doing things the right way can be the best way to avoid unnecessary repetition of effort. That understanding has helped me become the detail-oriented person I am today – a skill that I use to maintain a high level of productivity and quality in my work.

Several months ago, my attention to detail was recognized when I was named ABC Corp. Employee of the Year for my efforts as an auditor in our accounting department. Over the course of the previous six months, I had been tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of every department's financial activity, productivity, and efficiency. My emphasis on paying attention to the finest of details helped me identify $70,000 in annual waste, cost overruns, and inefficiencies.”

Example 7: Adaptability

“When I consider why I'm unique, I like to think in terms of things that make me the best qualified for this role. One thing noted in the role description in your job posting is the need for a candidate who can quickly adapt to new situations and unexpected challenges. Throughout my career, I've worked in many fast-paced and rapidly changing work environments and have always been flexible enough to keep pace with those changes.

In fact, my last employer, ABC Corp., was acquired by Delta Tech Corp. last year. That led to a massive restructuring designed to align the two firms' visions and missions. As the head of my department, I had to quickly adapt to that overhaul to acclimate myself to new products, services, and processes. Just as important, I had to help the rest of my team make that adjustment as well – which we did in record time, meeting our new revenue expectations two months ahead of schedule.”

Related reading : 10 Adaptability Interview Questions and Answers

Example 8: Commitment to learning

“That's a great question. What makes me unique is simple: my ongoing commitment to learning and improving my value as a human being and employee. That's a trait my parents instilled in me from my earliest years in school, as they never let me settle for anything but my best. I followed through on that commitment for constant improvement throughout my college years and my career, continually developing my existing skills while learning new abilities that helped me keep pace with a changing industry and economy.

As a leader, I've also promoted those same ideals as I've collaborated with members of my team. Several years ago, I created and introduced a skill enhancement program for employee development that offered team members an opportunity to learn new abilities that could provide expanded opportunities for promotion and other advancements within our company. That program helped more than a dozen of you top employees prepare for team leader, project manager, and other higher-level roles.”

Example 9: Strong communication

“What makes me unique is my ability to use my communication skills to empower everyone around me. Throughout my career as a manager, I've known many leaders who use their rhetorical skills to inspire and motivate loyalty to their mission and have witnessed the power they can harness with that approach. One of my first mentors, however, introduced me to another rhetorical technique that focuses more on inspiring people to be the best version of themselves.

My first opportunity to use this leadership technique came when I was hired to replace a manager who was let go due to a persistent failure to help his team meet their sales goals. When I arrived, the team was disorganized, dispirited, and expecting me to direct their every move. Instead, I implemented a program focused on providing new training techniques, self-actualization exercises, and personal goal setting rather than group objectives. That helped us double our sales results in just one quarter.”

Example 10: Organizational skills

“One of my most unique qualities is my ability to organize people, processes, and systems to create greater efficiencies that result in increased productivity and reduced costs. I've been fortunate to have the opportunity to leverage those skills in both an Administrative Assistant and Office Manager role at different stages of my career – and have always taken pride in my ability to improve operations through organizational excellence.

For example, when I was hired as the Office Manager for the Legal People Doing Legal Things law firm, my employers wanted me to create a new organizational structure for the practice, from scratch. The firm had outgrown its original operational plan, resulting in a chaotic approach to case management, office information flow, and revenue and expense planning. In just a few short weeks, I implemented a comprehensive plan that restructured every area of the practice.

Those efforts reduced communication problems, provided a clear system for case assignment and documentation management, and all but eliminated interoffice friction. With that new organizational approach in place, the firm quickly increased its client load by 13%, boosted revenues by 12%, and added four more legal professionals to the team.

Example 11: Transferable skills

“When you ask me what makes me unique, I can't help but think about my professional skill set. When I reviewed the job posting to try to identify the company's needs and expectations for this role, I quickly recognized my skill set aligns perfectly with your expectations. However, I also recognized that I possess a wide array of other skills that weren't cited in the job description. And it is those skills that may be what differentiates me from the other candidates seeking this job.

For example, in addition to the main marketing skills cited in the job description, I also possess graphic design and presentation skills that I've used to great effect in my previous employment. In my experience, a Marketing Manager who is skilled in graphic design will be even more effective when working with the design team to craft both print and digital marketing campaign materials.”

Alternative versions of the “What makes you unique” question

It's also important to note that employers may ask this type of question in various ways. For example, they may ask:

“What makes you the best candidate for this job?”

“Why should we hire you?”

“What skills make you think that you can do this job?”

“How are you different from our other candidates?”

“What type of value can you offer this company if we hire you?”

Each of those questions can be answered using the same tips you see in this guide, since the employer is seeking the same type of information. If you can answer one of these questions effectively, you should be able to answer any of these variations too.

Use these interview question examples and answers to prove you're unique

It's easy to get confused when interviewers ask you an unexpected question like, “What makes you unique?” However, once you understand what they really want to know, it's easy to prepare an effective response that highlights your qualifications. By referencing these interview questions examples and responses, and following this guide's tips, you should be well prepared to deal with any interview questions about your unique qualifications.

Need help preparing for your next interview than these interview question examples, and sample responses can provide? Why not consult with our expert TopInterview coaches to get the assistance you need?

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10 Answers to "What Makes You Unique?" (5+ Expert Tips)

Want to crush your interview.

Learn how to ace your interview with superior confidence.

Did the interviewer ask you, “What makes you unique?” or did they ask something like, “Tell us something unique about yourself.” Confused why they asked this? The question, "What makes you stand out from other candidates?" is an odd one. It makes you question the interviewer's intentions and make you feel like you are being asked a trick question.

Hiring managers love to throw this curveball at potential employees in various little packages with different wording, but they all mean the same thing.

It makes sense why they do, though. If you have a unique trait that can benefit the company you’re interviewing for, they will certainly want to hear it!

Expert tip: TalentNow reports that 42% of employers are worried they won’t be able to find the talent they need. And 72.8% are struggling to find relevant candidates. This is good news for job seekers. And an important reason why relevant resumes, cover letters, and interview answers are key to your future employment.

However, you can’t just say whatever stream-of-consciousness thought that pops up. You’ll need to really think about this question. And answer it in a way that gives the hiring manager the info they need in a well-phrased and eloquent way.

two people interviewing and asking what makes you unique

We’re going to dive into some excellent sample answers that you can use as a template. As well as why interviewers ask the question, "What makes you unique?" Or "Tell us what makes you unique?" And what makes a good and bad answer. And how to pen your own excellent position-snatching answer.

Why Do Interviewers Ask "What Makes You Unique?"

Realistically, the hiring manager is asking you this question because they want to know you're qualified for this position over the other candidates.

For example, you may have already told your hiring manager about all of your qualifying soft skills at the start of the interview. You have experience in marketing, a Bachelor’s degree, and a portfolio of excellent work. That’s all well and good, but ten other interviewees also have experience in marketing, a Bachelor’s degree, and a portfolio of excellent work. So what sets you apart from them in the context of benefiting this company?

Now it really makes sense why you’re being asked this. Hiring managers aren’t psychic and want to know what really makes you so special. If you can’t answer this question, maybe you don’t have unique traits that could benefit the company in their eyes.

It’s pertinent to prove them wrong here and figure out an excellent answer to this question.

What Is The Interviewer REALLY Trying To Understand From This Question

When we talk about “unique soft skills and traits” that are outside the common skills you’ll share with similar candidates. Then we’re looking at soft skills and traits that are special but can still benefit the company.

For example, you may be interviewing for a position in engineering. You (and ten other applicants) have a Master’s degree, 2 years of experience in software engineering, and a work portfolio. Two unique traits come to mind after being asked this interview question. The first is your intense dedication to perfection and deadlines. The second is your exceptional people skills. And since you’ll be working mainly with a small team. And not a customer or client base, mentioning your people skills may not be worth it. Instead, your dedication to deadlines may seem a bit more relational to the company and position.

How to Answer "What Makes You Unique" or "Tell Us What Makes You Unique"

When you hear the interview question, "What makes you unique?" It's best to be prepared. To best answer this question, be sure the response has one or more of the following considerations built into the answer:

Includes a skill or competency that fits the job description. Make sure to read the job description to find out!
Includes a quality that fits in with the work culture.
One that includes a passion or desire as a professional.
Or includes a short "humble brag." That displays confidence and/or a metric that shows prior work experience (e.g. growing a sales line by 20%).

Continue reading to learn how to create an answer to this interview question.

What Does A Good Answer Look Like (How To Answer)

There are many traits to a good answer to this interview question. Here are a few to help you know how to answer "what makes you unique?"

Creating a good "what makes you unique" answer

Either short or somewhat long. But should not be an ultra-short answer with no explanation and should also not be extremely long-winded or over-explained.
It’s difficult to make an honest answer seem like you aren’t bragging (Example: “I’m the most cheerful person I know." Or “I always excelled in my department and got employee of the month,” etc.). So, be sure to look at a particularly glowing answer and see how you can bring it down just a notch for modesty’s sake. For example, “I’m the friendliest person I know” is a good answer. But following up with a humorous statement. Like, “It may seem like I’m bragging but trust me, this personality trait has its pros and cons.” This helps make you seem relatable rather than conceited.
Tell a story. Bring up examples of past events that are interesting, relevant, and memorable.
Include skills and personality traits that are relevant to the position. It is also wise to think of very transferable skills. Or skills that could change and improve through the time you’re in a particular position.
If you’re trying to switch industries, be sure to think of skills that are shared between the industry. Skills you have experience with and the industry you’re trying to break into.

Expert tip: Lisa Barrow, CEO of Kada Recruiting told us, "A good tip in answering this question is to start with this sentence opener. 'I was the only one who.' Or I was the first to. And fill in the blank with what you've accomplished that many others in the same situation didn't or took longer to do. Use the opportunity to respond as a way to share a special achievement that you're particularly proud of accomplishing."

Consider these aspects when answering, "What makes you unique?" Answering in this structure shows you're the best candidate for the job. Unfortunately, there is some faux pas to avoid when answering this question.

What Does A Bad Answer Look Like (How Not To Answer)

Avoid answers like these at all costs! This is not how you should answer this interview question:

Answers that are way too brief or way too long.
Any answers that don’t involve an example or scenario.
Answers that involve an example or scenario that is irrelevant to the skill, irrelevant to the job position, nonsensical, clearly made up, or inappropriate.
Answers that do not have any relevance to the job description.
“I don’t have any unique traits.”
“I’m just better than everyone else.”
“I don’t have any way to prove this, but…”
“This doesn’t have anything to do with this job, but.”
“I’m extremely competitive and ready to race to the top, this position is just a starting point for me. That’s how dedicated I am.”
“I’m superb at [skill that has nothing to do with interviewing position.]”
“I’m wonderful at [skill that is absolutely useless in general.]”

It’s also worth noting that it’s vital to rehearse your answer. And think about it ahead of time to avoid blurting out a very not-so-good answer.

What Are Some Ways to Creatively Figure Out What Makes You Unique

There are several things to keep in mind when penning your own answer to "what makes you unique."

Figuring out what makes you unique

Look at the job description and highlight different skill requests and requirements that you possess. Figure out how to shimmy those skills into your answer.
Think of tangible examples or events from your past that demonstrate your unique trait. Try to keep these examples professional, but if you can think of a non-professional answer relevant to the skill, try it out. Tell a story, albeit a pretty brief one. If the story is humorous or profound, it will absolutely stick with your hiring manager and increase your chances of landing the job.
Don’t use generic phrases like “I’m a good worker” or “I’m a people person.” Expand on those answers to come up with something actually unique. We can tell you right now that every other candidate has probably brought up that they are a hard worker. Stand out from them with an answer that is truly unique and memorable.

Including skills

Along with including skills that you possess that the position requires, include relevant personality traits that others may not have. For example, you’re interviewing for a position in development. The key skills required are coding, team management, and project management. You could mention your interest in code and tech innovations. Or solutions, as well as a willingness to take on the challenge of a new integration. This shows your hiring manager when the company grows and expands its tech. That you’ll be ready and willing to learn how to use it and possibly train your team as well.
Make sure you end your answer with a reason how your particularly unique skills or personality traits will help the business. How it will help the business succeed and grow.
Think of universal skills and traits that could benefit any company in any industry. So, you can pop out that answer quickly for each job interview you go to. A well-rehearsed answer comes out more fluidly and naturally than a nervous answer you blurt out of the spot.

Expert tip: Bruce Hurwitz, Executive Recruiter and Career Counselor at Hurwitz Strategic Staffing gave us short and impactful answer templates you can use. Such as, "I have never missed a deadline or come in over budget. I increased sales by X%, representing an increased revenue of $Y. I discovered fraud saving the company hundreds of thousands of dollars."

Now that we know what to include and what not to include. We can start forming your own answer. Let’s take a look at ten different sample answers for various industry interviews.

10 Example Answers To "What Makes You Unique?" For Different Departments

You can use any of these long or short sample answers as a template for your own unique answer.

2 Example Answers to Creative Department Interviews

Sample answers below:

“I am a very excellent communicator and find that it's easy for me to relate to other people. This empathy is critical in this industry, both between colleagues and between the creative department and clients. I feel this is what makes me unique."

"I'm not afraid of failure in the least. In fact, I think it is an essential part of the experimental process. That it gets you to succeed at what it is that you do. For example, I was involved in a project several years ago that was very poorly planned. And did not assign deadlines as tightly as they should have. As a result, no one was putting in an equal amount of work. Eventually, the project fell through. When I started working for the most recent company. I came in with many suggestions on how management could make the project work and team building. The project was a huge success, and my manager personally thanked me for bringing all of that information to the table. Without failure, I would have never learned from it."

2 Example Answers to “What Makes You Unique?” for Sales Department Interviews

"I bring to the table seven years of customer service experience and excellence. My time in wholesale and retail has made me a candidate with a unique set of skills. Skills that have been refined by face to face customer and client interactions. I am an excellent communicator, an excellent listener, I take direction well, and excel in a team environment. These are all skills which I know will fit well with the position you’re looking to fill."

“Something unique about me is that I’m the most friendly person I know. This might sound like a brag, but it can be both good and bad! When I was a young girl, my mom repeatedly told friends and family she had a dozen nieces and nephews. But that she’d never seen a kid like me. At my last sales support position, 90% of the customers called were furious when they spoke with me. I took their anger in stride and worked with them without patronizing them. I spent the time to learn where they were coming from and made sure they knew I understood and heard them. Then I worked to solve their issues within the guidelines of our company policies. Technically I wasn’t doing anything different from any of the other hundred customer agents on my particular floor. I really think my upbeat attitude and empathy is why my customer satisfaction scores were 30% above the company average.”

2 Example Answers for Finance Department Interviews

"I really enjoy learning new things and am constantly seeking out new learning opportunities. When it comes to financing, I feel like the technology is constantly changing. And innovations are being put into place to improve efficiency and security. I’m excited about taking on changes and challenges because I genuinely find them fun."

"A unique thing about me is that I have a background in finance that doesn’t involve a big company. This allowed me to learn a lot about what’s new and up-and-coming in the industry. Working at a financial firm startup allowed me to understand the financial and investment industries' ins-and-outs. And take on tasks I might not have at a larger enterprise or company. I think this experience gives me a slight edge over other applicants that are interviewing for this position."

2 Example Answers for Marketing Department Interviews

“Something unique about me, you ask? Well, I really enjoy pulling together all the resources and people needed to finish different on-site upgrade projects. At my previous position, I was in charge of project management at twenty different client properties. I finished about a hundred per year, and on average, four days ahead of scheduled deadlines. And I consistently came in 20% under the allotted budget for any given project. And I developed relationships with dozens of local suppliers. Through those relationships and rapport, I worked through deals that drove down project costs by a significant amount, around 30%. It all came down to one thing: I love working with people. To do what it takes to complete a schedule of ongoing projects. And I will stay dedicated to a project until the end.”

Interview tip: Perform an informational interview if feeling confused on how to answer this question. An informational interview is where a job seeker can gather career advice from an already employed person. This career advice can be assistive in answering "What makes you unique?" And can provide career advice on future interviews, too.

"When solving various problems in my job, I apply both logic and emotional aspects in equal proportion. For example, I'm trained in Search Engine Optimization, and I understand how to use analytics to ensure a successful marketing campaign. Still, I also majored in design and knew how to apply creativity and an aesthetic element to a project. I believe there is a right-brain-left-brain solution to almost every marketing roadblock."

2 Sample Short Answers (150 Characters or Less)

"I'm exceptionally organized and a bit of a neat freak. At my last company, I was able to apply this personality trait to improve our process and increase ROI by 40%."

"My prior experience in customer support has given me unique technical skills that I can apply to this role, as well as people skills."

Expert tip: Ellen Mullarkey (VP at Messina Staffing Group ) gave us insights. She said, "I interviewed a woman who told me that she grew an 8-person sales team to a 20. In just a few years. And increased revenue by an exponential amount. Even more impressive, however, was that she’d done this all while raising her first child. I could tell from her answer that this was a unique candidate."

Job Seeker FAQ's

Common interview question Q&A from job seekers.

How should I highlight my unique qualities?

Think about what you've been able to accomplish in your career, then highlight what skills you used to get there. Bring up a unique selling proposition. Do this by mentioning what you've been able to accomplish first. And then supporting what unique qualities got you to that point.

Should I mention my communication skills?

This is not a skill set that will go far. Try to think about the qualities you have that others don't have. Those are qualities like active listening skills versus communication skills.

What if I feel like I don't have a uniqueness about me?

You do. Try to ask friends or family members. Ask them how they would describe you in a job search. And start from there.

Should this interview question have an answer that aligns with my personal branding?

It doesn't need to. Ideally, you support more about what you've been able to accomplish at a prior job. And then support the question with what personality benefits helped you achieve them.

Should I mention my strengths or strengths in my career?

Certainly. Any unique quality that you bring up should make the interviewer feel secure. Like you're trying to answer the question in a way that appeals to the job. Meaning, don't answer with anything negative.

Should I mentioned my skills and abilities in tandem?

Yes, if you support your answer with a unique perspective on how you accomplished your goals. Then you'll be indirectly speaking about your skills and abilities.

Should I mention anything about my social media? Like how many followers I have?

Probably not. Not unless you are in an interview for a social media manager position. This is one of the most common interview questions that sets aim at stumping interviewers. Just think about your accomplishments and key personality traits, then focus on that when answering the question. Avoid your social media metrics.

Similar resources

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About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes , Glassdoor , American Express , Reader's Digest , LiveCareer , Zety , Yahoo , Recruiter.com , SparkHire , SHRM.org , Process.st , FairyGodBoss , HRCI.org , St. Edwards University , NC State University , IBTimes.com , Thrive Global , TMCnet.com , Work It Daily , Workology , Career Guide , MyPerfectResume , College Career Life , The HR Digest , WorkWise , Career Cast , Elite Staffing , Women in HR , All About Careers , Upstart HR , The Street , Monster , The Ladders , Introvert Whisperer , and many more. Find him on LinkedIn .

Fact checked: Our small and dedicated team rigorously evaluates every article, guide, and reference to ensure the information is accurate and factual. Learn more .

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How to Answer the Interview Question “What Makes You Unique?”

You’re in a job interview and the interviewer asks you the question “What makes you unique?” What do you do? Can you tell them about the fact that you are a professional tea taster in your spare time? Or that you like to wake up at 7:02am?

Those are not the types of answers an interviewer is looking for. When an interviewer asks you about what makes you unique, they are looking to learn more about why you, specifically, are a good candidate for this job.

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In other words, the interviewer wants to know more about the skills and experience you have that uniquely qualifies you for the position.

In this article, we’re going to discuss how to answer the interview question “What makes you unique?” We’ll also walk through a few example answers to help you prepare for this question.

Why Interviewers Ask “What Makes You Unique?”

There are a few reasons why this question has become so common in interviews.

First, this question allows an employer to get a better sense of the unique value you bring to the table. If five people have been accepted into an interview who all have comparable skills, for instance, the employer will want to know what they will get by hiring you instead of one of the other candidates. What distinguishes you from others?

This question also gives you an opportunity to discuss the soft skills that you may not have written about in your resume or cover letter. Employers are looking not only for you to have the right background, but also something else—like an extraordinary organizational habit—that will help you do the job effectively.

How to Answer “What Makes You Unique?”

To answer this question effectively, your goal should be to focus on why hiring you is a wise move. So, instead of talking about a unique character trait you have, you should try to anchor your answers to the company and how you can help them achieve their goals.

Here are a few tips you can use to help answer this question:

Tip #1: Think about the company and role

This question is not about listing ways in which you are unique—everyone has their own qualities that nobody else has. Hiring managers ask this question to learn more about what makes you a unique candidate for the job. They want to know what attributes do you have that make you a valuable asset that other people do not have.

The best place to figure out your value proposition—what makes you uniquely valuable—is to read over the job description and ask yourself how you align with its contents. What skills do they mention that are particularly important? Which of those skills do you have?

The more time you spend researching the company and the role, the easier you will find it to match your skills to those on the job description.

Suppose you are applying for a job as an executive assistant, and the job description asks that you have experience working on a team. If this was on the job description, you may want to tell the company about an occasion where you effectively contributed to a team and went above and beyond to help others on the team.

Tip #2: Conduct some internal reflection

Answering this question is easier if you have spent some time reflecting inward. Before the interview, think about what traits you have cultivated in your past work experience that have made you a particularly valuable employee.

Did your organizational skills help you navigate a big challenge in your last job? Have you spent a lot of time working in high-pressure environments? Did this help you build time management skills?

The best answer to this question can be found by looking inward and considering what traits you think set you apart from the crowd. For instance, you may have experience developing new sales processes that you acquired on your last job. This may have allowed you to develop the unique skill of quickly identifying when an internal process is broken, and being proactive in proposing a solution.

Tip #3: Ask other people

Another way to figure out what makes you unique is to ask other people about what they think your strengths are. Go around to co-workers, friends, and anyone else with whom you have had a professional relationship and ask them this question.

By talking with other people about what makes you unique, you’ll be able to get an outside perspective. For instance, if you were a motivated team member in your last job, your former co-workers may be able to give you a few examples of when you were particularly motivated, and how that had a positive impact on the team and business.

In addition, if you have any performance reviews or appraisals on record, you could use them to help you get a better sense of your skills. Are there any skills that have been highlighted in multiple reviews? Can you recall any instances where your manager has applauded you for using a particular approach to solve a problem?

The information you find in performance reviews and appraisals can help you learn even more about how you have added unique value to an organization in the past, which you can use to inform your answer to this interview question.

Tip #4: Use examples

When you are answering this question, you should try to refer to an example or two from your professional working history.

Suppose your unique skill is being dedicated. Instead of saying “I am uniquely dedicated,” you could give an example of a time when you exercised this skill. For instance, if you are a sales manager, you could say “My dedication to the job allowed me to exceed my KPIs for nine months in a row by 5% each month.”

In addition, if you have any statistics you can mention, you should try to fit them into your answer. This is because statistics allow you to quantify your impact on a business, which will make it easier for the hiring manager to interpret the information you have shared.

Tip #5: Practice your response

The question “What makes you unique?” is one that requires a lot of reflection and pondering. It may take you some time to figure out how best to articulate your unique skills, especially if you haven’t thought about this question before.

So, before you go into an interview, take some time to practice how you are going to respond to this question. Write down your response, say it out loud, and see how you can improve it. Or, alternatively, you could ask someone else—like a friend or a co-worker—to give you their thoughts on your answer, which will help you better refine it.

Example Answers to “What Makes You Unique?”

So far, we have discussed a few tips you can follow to answer this interview question. To give you a better sense of how you can approach this question, we have compiled three example answers.

While the traits you may choose to mention in your response to this question will very likely be different, the following examples should give you a good idea of the type of structure you can employ in your answer.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

“What makes me unique is my ability to quickly adapt and learn new skills on the job. This skill was useful in my previous role as a full-stack web developer. Our business decided to shift from using Vue.js to React.js, which I did not know at the time. So, I quickly evaluated what skills I would need to learn, then spent my spare time acquiring those skills so I could be an effective contributor when the transition occurred.”

This is a good answer to the interview question “What makes you unique?” because the candidate has clearly stated their value—adaptability—and backed it up with an example. The candidate also mentioned how they went above and beyond to adapt, which resulted in using their spare time to acquire new skills. This demonstrates a candidate’s dedication to their career, which is a positive trait employers look for.

“My ability to communicate with customers effectively makes me a unique salesperson. In my previous job, I was responsible for managing a roster of important clients. To do so, I liked to develop a personal relationship with each customer, and check in every month even without a prompt, to keep our relationships going. This helped me boost customer retention, and resulted in a number of large orders being placed by existing customers.”

This answer is effective because the candidate gives a clear example of how they have used their communication skills. The candidate talks about how they used their own follow-up practice to help engage clients and discusses the impact this approach had on the two metrics that they were tracking: customer retention and orders.

“I am uniquely organized and enjoy building systems to become more efficient. My previous manager recognized on a number of occasions that my organizational skills have helped the team stay on schedule. For instance, when we were planning an important transition to a new accounting system, my ability to organize our data effectively helped us make the transition on schedule. I was commended by my manager for the work on this project.”

This answer demonstrates that not only is the candidate organized, but also has experience using their skills on an important project. In this answer, the candidate gave a clear example of when they had to use their organizational skills, which will help an interview better understand the candidate’s unique ability to organize.

The question “What makes you unique?” can feel intimidating. Your instinct may be to respond by telling the interviewer about the first peculiar thing you do, but that is not the right way to approach this question.

When you are asked this question, you should respond by talking about the unique strengths and skills you have cultivated that are related to the job for which you are applying. Your response should create a clear link between your skills and the needs of the business.

By following the tips in this article—and by spending some time to introspect on what you think makes you a unique employee—you will be able to craft an answer to this question that effectively demonstrates your value to an interviewer.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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20 Best Answers to “What Makes You Unique” Interview Question

This is a common interview question, especially in the second stage of the interview process. The hiring manager will have several job seekers to choose from and wants to select the very best candidate. The best way to demonstrate that you are the ideal candidate is to show your unique skills as they relate to the job role.

Here are 20 example interview answers to “What makes you unique?” that demonstrate the specific skills employers are looking for and show that you are the best person for the job.

5 Tips for Your Answer

Unique answers stand out. This is your chance to show your best qualities.
Show you are the kind of person who will be a valuable addition to the company.
Try to include two to four specific personality traits that will be valuable in the role.
Prove that you are a good candidate by using specific examples from a previous job.
Demonstrate soft skills like time management and organizational skills.

5 Mistakes to Avoid

Do not be afraid to adapt these sample answers to your unique qualities.
Do not use common skills like “hard worker” or “good team player” without good examples.
Do not discuss your personal life unless providing examples of transferable skills.
Don’t forget to base your answers on the job description.
Don’t forget to have concrete examples prepared for each skill set on your cover letter or resume.

20 Best Example Answers to “What makes you unique?”

Example #1: catch-all answer for most roles.

My personality is what makes me unique. I am someone who is trustworthy. I take responsibility for my actions and own my mistakes. I am a quick and efficient worker. I never look to cut corners, but I do avoid things that are an unnecessary waste of time. Finally, I am open to change and embrace it with a positive attitude.

Key Takeaways: This is a great way to give a general-purpose answer to this question, and it includes multiple positive personality traits. Try to have an example in mind from your last job for each value as follow-up questions are likely.

Example #2: Eager & Fresh (Entry Level)

My lack of past work experience, coupled with my natural ability to learn quickly and pick up new skills rapidly, makes me an exceptional candidate. This means that I do not have any bad habits to unlearn from previous experience. I am eager to learn and be molded by your company, to develop the necessary experience to thrive in the new role.

Key Takeaways: It is difficult to turn a lack of experience into a positive, but this is an almost perfect answer if you have no prior experience. This answer turns apparent weaknesses into personal unique strengths, and the creativity of the answer shows that you can think outside the box.

Example #3: Experience (Senior & Managerial Roles)

The unique attributes that I will bring to this role are my ability to get the most out of my team and my company-focused mindset. Every decision that I make in my role is considered in relation to the company’s strategic goals. And in my years of experience as a team leader, I have developed my ability to motivate and encourage my team to produce excellent, focused results for the business.

Key Takeaways: This answer is especially good for managers, team leaders, or leadership roles, but can be used for senior non-leadership roles in teams. It is a good answer because it discusses making decisions in alignment with the company’s goals and motivating others to do the same.

Example #4: Customer Communication Skills

My communication skills and unique ability to ethically upsell customers make me an ideal candidate. The first thing that makes me unique is my ability to communicate with all customers in a friendly way, energetic way without overpowering them. I make all customers feel welcome and listen actively to resolve their questions or complaints in a fast and amicable way. I am also constantly looking for ways to help customers by upselling them with products or services that are useful to them and add to their experience.

Key Takeaways: This is a good answer because it highlights communication, which is an important skill for customer service roles. It also shows an awareness of the importance of upselling and increasing sales, and by using the word “ethically,” it subtly shows you are a trustworthy person who has integrity.

Example #5: Refined Sales & Client Relationship Abilities

The three things that make me the best candidate for this sales position are my unique prospecting techniques, my ability to build relationships, and my strong closing techniques. First, I use several creative prospecting methods to generate leads and increase my client list. Second, I always interact with prospective clients with a view to a long-term relationship and generating growing revenue and repeat business. Finally, I am strong, decisive, and skilled in my ability to close sales and generate positive results.

Key Takeaways: This answer discusses the three core skills expected of a salesperson but adds a personal twist to each. Instead of just prospecting, you are creative at prospecting. Instead of just selling, you build long-term relationships for growing repeat business. Instead of just closing, you close decisively and generate results.

Example #6: Planning & Organizational Expertise

The most unique thing about me is my exceptional planning and organizational abilities. In my previous position, my manager often complimented my ability to be consistently more organized than the rest of my team. I am an excellent multi-tasker and can be relied upon to organize, manage and complete many important, competing tasks at the same time. As a result, I was able to get more done to a higher standard and was able to be counted on to deliver results.

Key Takeaways: This answer shows that you are a good fit for administrative and organizational roles. It refers to experience from a previous role, ability to manage time, multi-task, and importantly it politely suggests you will outperform other candidates.

Example #7: A True People Person

I am an excellent communicator, a great people person, and naturally proficient at social media. These skills make me the ideal candidate because I can effectively communicate my message to people of varied backgrounds and persuasion and account for different audience biases in my messaging.

Second, as a people person, I can naturally get inside the target audience’s head and tailor content to not only catch attention but incite viewer interactions. Finally, my proficiency with social media allows me to do my job quickly, efficiently, and with a high degree of engagement.

Key Takeaways: The important thing for social media and PR is to show that you can get inside the viewers’ minds and influence not just how they think, but also how they respond.

Example #8: Deep Technical Skills

What makes me the best candidate for your job is my unique technical skills. While many people develop skills purely to increase their employability, I have a genuine passion for the industry. This means that I am constantly learning and developing my skills, and my passion has led to a naturally deep, detailed, and specialized knowledge that is usually beyond my peers. I take a lot of pride in my ability to share this knowledge and improve the efficiency, speed, and expertise of any team I am a part of.

Key Takeaways: For technical roles, this answer is ideal because it states that you are more technically capable than other candidates. The last sentence is critical. It shows that you will use your skills to improve the team’s performance and won’t just keep your expertise to yourself.

Example #9: Demonstrated Creativity

My most unique trait is that I am a creative person who can always offer a different perspective on problems. My creative skills have been well developed through past experiences and exposure to diverse cultural and industry backgrounds.

Key Takeaways: Most businesses can benefit from creative minds who can think outside the box and offer alternate points of view. This is a good answer, particularly when applying for startup companies or roles with organizations seeking to innovate.

Example #10: Proactive Problem Solving Capabilities

What makes me unique is that I am a proactive and creative problem solver who takes the initiative to come up with new ideas and novel solutions to problems. I am motivated to solve problems in new ways because of my desire to go above and beyond for the customer, deliver exceptional results for the company, and to drive business innovation forward.

Key Takeaways: This is one of the best answers to use if you are a creative and energetic person who struggles to describe your value to the company. This answer says that you use your ability to think and motivation to always be doing something to benefit the customer and the company.

Example #11: Unwavering Honesty and Ethics

I believe my attributes that are of greatest value to your business are my honest and ethical nature. I am a highly motivated professional who works hard in everything that I do, and I believe in always doing the right thing, even if no one is looking. I would never do anything that would compromise my personal reputation or that of my company. I believe ethics are of utmost importance because an ethical person will work hard to learn anything you need them to learn, but it is very difficult to teach an ethical and positive mindset.

Key Takeaways: This is a very strong answer for most industries and can be a great response for first-time job applicants or anyone who does not have relevant experience, e.g., during a career transition. While applicable to most industries, it is excellent for good employers in financial services, banking, and legal industries due to the nature of their work.

Example #12: A Perfect Match for That Particular Job

What makes me the ideal candidate is that I already possess all of the relevant skills, qualities, and experience required for the job description. This is because, during my job search, I specifically looked for roles that were a match for my skills and abilities.

I also looked during the job application process to make sure that this work environment would match my personality, qualities, and values closely. As a result, I have only applied for this position because I know that I can get up to speed and be a valuable member of the company very quickly if I am hired.

Key Takeaways: If you have searched for jobs that are a specific match for your skills and experiences, then saying this during the job interview is a good idea. If you use this answer, you must deliver it with sincerity and confidence.

Example #13: Business Sense & Skills

One of my most unique traits is my business sense and commercial awareness. This means that I am always aware of how my job and the outcome of my work impact the success of the business. In everything I do, I try to be mindful of what is best for the company and to make decisions that contribute to long-term commercial success. I work diligently, take initiative and go above and beyond in everything that I do for the company and for customers.

Key Takeaways: This answer is particularly unique and unlikely to be given by other candidates. It stands out because it discusses having a sense of commercial awareness and considering decisions and actions that are best for the business.

Example #14: Dedication to Lifelong Learning

My greatest personal strength is my dedication and passion for continuous learning and development. I am aware that to contribute value to the company, I must improve my skills and capabilities. Further, I have several personal goals that I want to achieve in life, and these require that I am successful professionally. Therefore, to improve my professional success, I am committed to keeping ahead of industry trends and changes and using my own time to proactively learn the most relevant and valuable skills for the business.

Key Takeaways: All businesses will find it highly desirable to hire staff who are skilled professionals who continue to grow and develop their skills. This answer discusses continuing to develop yourself professionally in your own time and with a view to what is valuable to the business.

Example #15: Tackles Challenges & Learns from Mistakes

What makes me a unique asset to the company is that I am not afraid of failure. I try to approach all situations realistically and not to over-commit, but I also never shy away from a challenge when it is presented. This, coupled with my honesty and initiative, means that I am always looking for new ways to help the company improve. I embrace the fact that the best way for me to improve myself and increase my value to the company is to learn from my own mistakes.

Key Takeaways: This is a very good answer when used for highly innovative roles. It shows that you will not avoid challenges to protect your ego. However, it is best to avoid an answer like this when dealing with detail-oriented roles such as legal or finance.

Example #16: Optimistic Self-Starter

I am a naturally positive person and a highly motivated “self-starter,” I believe we get back the effort we invest in life. Because I am naturally positive, I excel at remaining upbeat in challenging situations and improving the morale of my team. My high motivation means that I am dependable and always strive to give 110%. Finally, I have a lot of goals and ambitions that I want to achieve both personally and professionally, and I know that to realize these goals, I need to always learn, improve, and deliver my best at all times.

Key Takeaways: Saying you are a motivated self-starter can be cliché if delivered without context. However, this answer is a good example if it is delivered passionately and confidently because it explains what being a motivated self-starter will look like to the company.

Example #17: Showing a History of High Achievement

What sets me apart from other candidates for this position is my history of consistent high achievement. In all my previous roles, I have demonstrated a reliable ability to not only meet but surpass the minimum performance requirements.

You should include a short three or four-sentence example from a previous role where you exceeded expectations. Alternatively, you could include a relevant example of non-work-related achievement where the skill demonstrated is relevant to work.

Key Takeaways: This is a great answer because all companies want to hire people who are high performers. It is important to make this your own answer by including a real and relevant example from a previous role. Try to give an example of a skill required in the job description.

Example #18: Demonstrating a Positive Attitude & Motivated Mindset

I believe that my positive attitude, persistent mindset, and ability to share this positivity and motivation with others make me unique. I am not a blind optimist, but I always look for how I can respond to a situation to get the best result possible. I am also very persistent, and I will never throw in the towel before the bell rings.

In addition, in past roles, I have gained extensive experience sharing my positive view and persistent attitude with others to keep our whole team on track even in trying times.

Key Takeaways: An answer like this is good because it discusses the in-demand soft skills of attitude and mindset. A company can teach most skills required but finding staff who work hard consistently and have a good attitude can be very difficult.

Example #19: Strong Team Player

I have a well-developed ability to not only work in groups but to create a strong team culture and foster teamwork. I am a strong team player, and I thrive in a collaborative environment where everyone is working towards the same goal.

I believe this is an important skill because companies exist as groups of people working together to deliver value for stakeholders. I have always had an ability to positively influence team culture, whether I am a team leader or a junior team member.

Key Takeaways: Being a team player is an important skill in all businesses. This answer is strong because it explains the specific team-related skills that you will bring to the company.

Example #20: Resilient & Ability to Easily Change

My most unique traits are my resilience and ability to adapt to change with ease. I am a very resilient and persistent worker, and I am not easily demotivated or dissuaded. In situations that are challenging and would demotivate many people, I find that I become more motivated to persist and succeed. I become more eager the harder a situation becomes.

When change is required, I don’t resist, I pivot and adapt and find what skills I have that fit the new change, and then I work to quickly build new skills that are suited to the changing work environment.

Key Takeaways: This is a very good answer for two reasons. First, resilience and persistence are desirable, especially as millennials and gen z’s are stereotyped as being entitled and “soft.” Being resilient means you will not quit or give up just because a situation is hard. Second, change is happening more and more in the modern world, and companies need to hire flexible employees who can adapt rather than resist changes when they happen.

The purpose of a question like this in a job interview is to determine if you are the best choice among all of the job candidates. This is a good chance to show off your unique set of skills developed from similar experiences and past roles. Giving a great answer will show that you are the perfect candidate for the role.

How To Answer The Interview Question: What Makes You Unique

An interview is the perfect opportunity for prospective employers to get to know you better. While your CV is supposed…

An interview is the perfect opportunity for prospective employers to get to know you better. While your CV is supposed to project your accomplishments and highlight the professional you are from the outside, the point of an interview is to understand your attributes and the person you are from the inside.

To achieve this objective, almost all interviews feature a question that’s designed to know you better. A popular interview question you may be asked is “what makes you unique?”.

Such a question doesn’t require you to memorize chunks of data or make on-the-spot deductions. Instead, it requires you to be able to talk about yourself in an appealing and coherent way.

“What Makes You Unique” Interview Question And Its Purpose

Tips to remember, things to avoid, how you can prove your uniqueness, “what makes you unique” sample answer, learn to master the “what makes you unique” answer.

The purpose of the “what makes you unique” question is to figure out what makes you different from others. After sorting through CVs, presentations and portfolios, recruiters end up shortlisting candidates who are similarly matched in terms of their skills and achievements. At this stage, employers look to identify the X-factor that gives one candidate an edge over others. This edge is often obtained by proving yourself as someone who’s unique in their own way. ( https://www.echelon.health )

The interesting part about a question like “what makes you unique” is that it’s inherently subjective. As an interviewee, you have the freedom to craft an answer that’s unlike any other. But doing so is often less about inspiration and more about preparation.

If you want to effectively answer the “what makes you unique” interview question, you may find the following suggestions helpful:

Keep your answer direct and precise

Before the interview, identify two or three areas where you can prove your uniqueness

Try speaking to friends and family beforehand to get an idea of what they think your “what makes you unique” answer can be

Link your unique qualities with the expected roles and responsibilities of the job you’re being interviewed for

Sometimes, while answering crucial interview questions, it’s more important to know what not to do. Here’s a list of things you should avoid at all costs while trying to establish your uniqueness:

Try not to sound arrogant or self-indulgent

Stay on course and only talk about what you’ve been asked

Avoid generic statements like “I’m unique because I can work harder than most others”

Steer clear of attributes or skills that have no connection to the job requirements

Demonstrate what makes you different from others with the help of these following ways:

Your Skills

To convince your interviewer that your skill-set is unique, you don’t have to rattle off all your skills in a single breath. What you need to do is tell them why your skills are rare in the market. You should narrate instances when your skills led to meaningful impact, be it at your previous organizations or even during your student days.

Your Personality

“What makes me unique is my personality” is easier said than proved. Justify this statement by discussing how your personality can make you productive for an organization. Are you someone who can lead or sympathize with others quickly? Do you have an instinct for taking risks or have a great sense of timing? If yes, this is the place to talk about it, without boasting, of course.

Your Experience

Experience doesn’t simply mean working for five years in an industry. Even five days of experience at an internship can teach you something valuable that’s worth remembering for a lifetime. What valuable lessons have you learned in your career or campus that set you apart from the rest? This is the key question you need to answer to show that your experience makes you unique.

Your Shortcomings

Failures are an important learning curve that every organization is aware of. When asked about your uniqueness, don’t shy away from talking about your failures and shortcomings. Far from dimming your profile, they humanize you and make you more relatable. At the same time, make it a point to show how you have grown over time and can be trusted upon to not repeat the same mistakes.

Focusing on what sets you apart, identifying skills and experiences that may not be as common across the board will help you distinguish yourself.

The following is an example of a “what makes you unique” sample answer that’s certain to make a mark on the interviewer:

“What makes me unique is my ability to adapt and to change my opinions when the facts change. I’m extremely receptive to situations and understand that to be successful, I must be prepared to work in different scenarios with different kinds of people. My adaptability helped me increase my organization’s ROI by 5 % within two years at my previous job. It also means that I can work across roles and contribute to your organization in a number of ways without losing the tenacity and the vision that are innate to who I am.”

Proving your uniqueness is challenging not only because it requires preparedness but also because it requires identifying what really makes you unique. Harappa’s Ace The Interview course is here to help you do both through a rigorous series of modules that simulate interview questions and provide insightful personal analysis. Through frameworks such as PAM (Purpose, Audience and Message) , you’ll not only discover what makes you unique but also find the best possible means to express it.

Explore topics such as General HR Interview Questions , How To Improve Interviewing Skills , How to Answer “ What Is Your Dream Job “, “ What Is Your Greatest Achievement ” & How to Prepare for a Mock Interview from Harappa Diaries and ace your next interview.

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How to Answer 30 Popular Scholarship Interview Questions

What’s covered:.

Getting To Know You Questions
Questions About the Opportunity

Closing Remarks

Enter the collegevine scholarships.

When applying for college scholarships, you may be invited to interview if you make it past the initial screening round. The interview may feel nerve-wracking, but being offered one is great news!

Not sure how to prepare? Here are 30 popular scholarship interview questions and example answers to help you to think about your responses. Use these examples as a stepping stone for brainstorming and drafting your own unique responses. You can apply this same formula to many other scholarship interview questions as well.

Getting to Know You Questions

1. tell us about yourself..

This is the most popular among all scholarship interview questions. It’s often used to “warm up” the interviewee. It’s also a very general question that can cause those unprepared to answer to ramble or waffle in their response.

A good answer is concise, provides a brief bio, and highlights why you’re the right person for the scholarship. Use your answer as an opportunity to spotlight the achievements, personality traits, skills, and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the scholarship.

Example: I’m a sophomore at Carlsbad High School. I’ve been passionate about technology and its impact on human life since my early childhood days. Over the past few years, with the help of my parents and teachers, I managed to explore this passion by taking extra courses in programming languages such as C++, Android app development, and graphic design. My hobby is to help fellow students with their Android apps and program games for them.

See more examples in our guide about responding to “tell me about yourself” in college interviews .

2. Were you involved in any activities at school or in your community?

Interviewers use this question to better know an interviewee’s interests outside of their application and gain an understanding of their involvement at school and in the greater community.

This interview question is great for students with leadership roles, providing them an opportunity to talk about their experiences and involvement in clubs or sports. It’s also a chance to talk about how you contribute to your community or help people in need.

Example: I’m the editor of our school newspaper. As an editor, I manage other students who write articles for the paper and come up with topic ideas. Additionally, I’m a member of the swim team and volunteer at the historical society. I enjoy having a balance between physical, intellectual, and community activities because they keep me active in different ways.

3. Tell us about your greatest strength and greatest weakness.

Interviewers love this question, as it allows them to judge your self-awareness, honesty, and interest in personal growth. When talking about your strengths, prioritize quality over quantity and focus on two or three attributes that are relevant to the scholarship. Stories are more memorable than generalizations, so share examples of how you demonstrate your best characteristics.

It can help to reframe the second half of this question—instead of thinking of areas of weakness, they’re opportunities for improvement. No one is perfect, but you’re conscious of the areas in which you struggle and are taking steps to improve. It’s especially important to avoid cliches when responding to this question; you don’t want to be the 1,000th student to answer “I’m a perfectionist.”

Example: My greatest strength is that I can prioritize what needs to be done first today and which tasks can wait until tomorrow. Because of this, I’m efficient with my time management and able to succeed in both school and extracurricular activities. However, my greatest weakness is that I can become too focused on one task and forget about other assignments or projects which need attention. I’ve been working on this by setting reminders in my calendar throughout the day.

4. Tell us something about yourself that no one else knows.

This is another question designed to allow the interviewer to better get to know you and while it’s a personal question, it’s important to avoid sharing anything too personal or sensitive. Focus on something unique and interesting about yourself—such as an accomplishment, hobby, talent, interest, or experience—that makes you stand out from other applicants.

Example: I am proficient in sign language. This has always been a passion of mine and I wish to work with children in a clinical setting who are deaf or hard of hearing one day. I have studied sign language throughout high school and I plan to continue learning at university so that I can interact with these children without any language barrier.

5. How would you describe yourself?

This question allows interviewers to get to know you better as a person, understand how you perceive yourself, and gain further insight into your personality. Highlight the traits that are relevant to the scholarship and call attention to any relevant skills. This question is a great opportunity for students who might not have extracurricular activities related to the scholarship but have qualities that align with the scholarship.

Example: I believe my positive attitude and ability to work in a team environment contribute to my character. In my part-time job, I lead a team of baristas at my local café. The role is equal parts delegating tasks and ensuring customer satisfaction. My enthusiasm for coffee and my ability to operate in a collaborative environment left an impression of optimism on both my coworkers and customers. Regulars have even acknowledged that they visit my café specifically because of the happy atmosphere I create.

6. What are your biggest accomplishments?

This question allows interviewers to learn about your achievements while also gaining insight into your ability to set goals and achieve them. It’s a great chance for you to brag about yourself a little bit as well.

Bring up something that makes you stand out from other students, especially if it’s related to the scholarship you’re applying for! Whether it’s winning awards or competitions, being president of an organization, graduating at the top of your class, or anything else that enhances your application.

The STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) Method provides a great structure for responding to this question: provide specific details about the situation, the task or challenges you faced, the actions you took, and the results you achieved.

Example: I noticed that my high school created a lot of food waste, so I helped implement a composting program that used students’ leftovers as fertilizer for the school garden. We faced a lot of pushback at first from the school board, as they weren’t familiar with the environmental benefits of composting. After speaking at three board meetings, I was given permission to start the program. Our cafeteria was recognized by the food services director who wanted to take this idea and implement it system-wide. My team and I were then given special permission to start a “Garden Club” where we could continue to grow fresh vegetables for our peers. Since then, five additional high schools have followed suit.

7. Describe your biggest mistake.

How you respond to this question informs interviewers about your ability to take responsibility for your actions and how you learn from your mistakes. Rather than trying to appear perfect, use this opportunity to show that you can own up to your errors, learn from them, and take steps to ensure you don’t repeat them. Here, again, the STAR Method provides an outline for composing a strong answer.

Example: In my sophomore year of high school, my brother and I switched schools. My brother has always been the outgoing one and never had trouble making friends, so I failed to recognize that he was actually going through a hard transition. I had gotten so busy with my new activities that I didn’t read too much into his increased moodiness and time spent alone in his room. It was only when we got into an argument that he revealed how lonely he’d been feeling. Now, I make it a point to be more sensitive to the feelings of my friends and family, and to try to check in more regularly. I actually now have a weekly scheduled hangout with my brother where we go on a random adventure and talk about life. Last week, we went geocaching!

8. Tell me about your leadership experience.

Interviewers use this question to gauge how you build and maintain relationships, how you work with others, and how you motivate them to get something done. Highlight a time when you had to lead a team or group and how you inspired them to achieve a goal. Remember stories are more memorable than statements, so paint a detailed picture and avoid generalizations.

Example: As one of the co-presidents for my high school’s Amnesty International club , I organized and supervised the organization of all meetings and events that we attend to raise awareness about social justice topics such as refugees or endangered species. When I first joined the group, it was relatively inactive and focused mostly on letter-writing campaigns. However, in the wake of George Floyd, I rallied the group to become more involved with the Black Lives Matter movement. We attended events and reached out to local politicians to call attention to racial inequality in our community. This experience has taught me how to effectively manage a team, rally a diverse group around an issue, and organize efforts to effect change.

Do you have enough leadership experience to get accepted to your top school? Calculate your chances for free now .

9. What is your favorite book and why?

This question is asking you to show your personality and interests. It aims to get a sense of who you are so they can determine if you would be a good fit for the scholarship. Share a book that you enjoy, are comfortable talking about, is substantive enough that you can explain its importance, and aligns with your interests and passions.

Avoid choosing a book that you think will impress your interviewer—it can come off as insincere.

Example: My favorite book is Finding You by Lydia Albano. The main character, Isla, is sold into slavery, and at first, she hopes that someone from her past will come to rescue her. She doesn’t think she can escape because she’s small and not very strong. But in the end, she actually winds up saving a bunch of other girls when she creates an escape plan for them. I like this book because I would also like to work to end human trafficking. Like Isla, sometimes I feel like I can’t do anything to help, but she gives me the courage to try.

10. What subject is your favorite in school?

This is another question where you want to show your personality more than just listing off random facts about yourself. You should choose a subject that relates to the scholarship and/or one you are passionate about. You can mention how this subject makes you excited, why it’s important for you to study it, etc. Your answer demonstrates your interest in learning and in taking your education further.

Example: My favorite subject is history because I find it interesting to study how people interacted with one another over time. It’s refreshing seeing different perspectives of different cultures and studying significant historical figures. I hope to one day become a lawyer, and I know that studying history will give me the perspective, research experience, and writing skills needed to succeed.

11. What is your dream job?

This question allows the interviewer to gain a better understanding of your goals and ambitions. The position doesn’t need to be overly specific but should reflect the skills and responsibilities you hope to use. It also should tie in with the scholarship.

Example: My dream job is to work in the media industry as a producer or editor. I am passionate about sharing people’s stories and would love to brainstorm ways that we could create more awareness through reporting. This career would allow me to use my creativity to positively influence others.

12. What is a meaningful experience or class you’ve had in school?

This is a more advanced version of the question asking you about your favorite subject. Its intent is to learn how coursework has shaped your interests and shown you new perspectives on certain topics.

Example: In my senior year of high school, I took a course on Media and Society. I specifically recall the final essay assignment where we had to compare two different media elements. Analyzing the portrayal of women in video game advertisements was my topic for this project. At first, I was really nervous about the topic; would I offend some friends within my gaming circle? I didn’t want to seem like an overly sensitive female gamer. But, doing the research provided me with a better understanding of how women are often objectified in advertising, and after talking to my friends, they ended up being really supportive of my project and we have since become more aware of the kinds of media we’re consuming.

13. Who do you look up to? Who is your role model?

The expectation of this question is to see which qualities you admire, what inspires you, and who has shaped your interests or helped you become who you are today. This could be a public figure, teacher, mentor, family member, friend—really anyone. Your answer should demonstrate your values and align with the values of the scholarship.

Example: I admire Amelia Earhart because she was a women’s rights activist and broke social barriers by being the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. She was able to pursue what she wanted despite harsh criticism, which helps me feel more empowered to follow my own dreams.

14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

This is a question to learn about your future aspirations and goals. It’s also an opportunity to show the scholarship committee that you are ready for college and beyond. You want your answer to demonstrate that you have a plan moving forward; it doesn’t have to be super specific or set in stone, but you should have an idea of what you hope to achieve. You’ll also want to speak to how the scholarship fits into your future goals.

Example: In five years, I plan to have graduated college with a degree in economics and have landed a job in financial planning where I can put both my analytical and people skills to work. I’m passionate about helping people make informed financial decisions and meeting their personal goals and this scholarship will help me gain the education I need to pursue a career in the field.

15. How do you define failure?

This question is meant to see how you respond when faced with a challenge and gain insight into your problem-solving skills. It is important not to simply say that failure means giving up, as this will show that you lack initiative and drive. The best way to answer this question is by using personal experience, demonstrating what you learned from it and how you’ve used the lessons for self-improvement.

Example: I define failure as a missed opportunity. When I first began to play rugby during my freshman year of high school, I quickly realized that our team was not very strong. At times, it felt like we were bound to lose every game. But rather than letting this bring me down, I saw the season as a chance for me to try my hardest and become an impact player on the field. As the years went by, I continued to improve and our team grew closer together. Our losses began to transform into opportunities for growth, and by senior year, I was nominated captain. I had done everything in my power to make sure my teammates succeeded—even though it meant that on the scoreboard we would inevitably lose more than we won.

16. How do you manage stress?

This question seeks to determine how you deal with difficult situations. It’s common for students to respond that they like to focus on what is happening in the present moment, but this answer will show that you do not have a strategy for coping with stressors. A better way to answer would be by mentioning a specific skill or habit that you have developed over time. Make your answer memorable by citing a specific example of a stressful time and how you handled it.

Example: Last fall I was feeling particularly taxed—I was taking two AP courses, studying for the SAT, playing varsity soccer, and preparing to apply to college. I felt a lot of pressure to get everything done and it was overwhelming. I’m a very organized person, and when I have a lot of work to do, I break it down into manageable tasks. Seeing everything that needs to be done in one sitting can be exasperating for me, but if I give myself smaller goals to meet each day then it all becomes more manageable.

17. Tell me about a time you overcame adversity.

Interviewers ask this question for a variety of reasons, including learning about your problem-solving, creative thinking, and resourcefulness. It’s also a chance to gauge your resilience and determination. A strong answer highlights something that was difficult for you, the steps you took to meet the challenge, and how the experience would help you handle adversity you might face in the future. People remember details, so be specific.

Example: Many of my friends love playing sports and were busy much of the year with after-school practices. Unfortunately, I’m not particularly athletic. I tried out for the football team but failed to make it because I didn’t have enough experience. Instead of feeling sorry for myself, I decided to join the swim team and began training with one of the best swimmers in school. She allowed me to shadow her until she felt that my technique was on par with the rest of her team. By the end of my sophomore year, I qualified for state-level tournaments!

18. What motivates you?

This question is usually asked to see what motivates you to do your best, but more importantly, provides you with a chance to show off the positive aspects of your personality. Your answers should focus on something that aligns with the scholarship—was there something that jumped off the screen/page when you read about it? Equally important to what you say is how you say it; make sure your answer is positive and enthusiastic.

Example: Curiosity is my main motivator. I love learning new things, and I am constantly trying to figure out how things work—I attended a JAVA camp last summer just to learn more about how video games are designed. This scholarship will allow me to further explore coding and help satiate my natural curiosity.

19. Tell me about a time when you didn’t agree with an authority’s decision.

This question aims to gain insight into how you think through tough situations and is a test of your maturity. The interviewer wants to know if you are able to provide constructive feedback and what your approach would be when taking a stand against an unpopular decision.

Example: I was extremely disappointed when the school board decided not to purchase new science textbooks for our school library. While it made sense to save money, I decided that I needed to write a letter about my concerns. By explaining how this would impact the students’ discovery of new ideas and knowledge, I was able to convince my classmates to join me in signing an online petition. Luckily, they agreed with my perspective and the school board changed their decision.

20. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond on a task.

This question is meant to see your dedication, motivation, and work ethic. A good answer will highlight a specific attribute you want to call attention to and use an example of a time you went beyond what was required to convey that attribute. While it’s tempting to talk about a big accomplishment, it’s important the story also focuses on a time you did more than you needed to. As always, include a specific example!

Example: Over the past two years, I’ve worked in my hometown library. While I always make sure that each day’s work gets done in a timely manner, I also try to go the extra mile. If someone comes in looking for help with an assignment, if possible, I stay late with them until everything is complete. It’s super fulfilling. I even had one of the students I’ve helped come in to tell me she’d improved her math grade from a C to a B+!

21. How would you describe a good school environment?

This is a question that allows you to visualize your ideal environment, and what your priorities would be if you were in charge. It’s also a way for interviewers to learn about your personality and preferences. If an interviewer asks this question, it may mean that they are trying to figure out if you would fit into the scholarship’s culture.

Example: I think the most important thing about school is being able to personalize your learning. I’m looking for a place where I can learn the specifics of my field, but also have the freedom to pursue different ways of learning. For example, in my Spanish class, we were learning about language and identity, and we had to write a paper analyzing the specific works we studied at the end. I asked my teacher if I could instead write a personal paper about my experiences with language and identity while incorporating the works. This reflection was super meaningful to me as a Mexican-American student. I want to attend a school where this sort of academic freedom is the norm.

22. Tell me about a personal achievement that makes you proud.

This question is meant to see what makes you proud in life and how you define success. Answering this question provides an excellent opportunity to brag about a big accomplishment and spotlight scholarship-related qualities, like perseverance and problem-solving. Make sure to credit those who helped you along the way and share what you learned from the experience. Let the interviewer know that you’re setting the bar high, not just coasting along.

Example: During my senior year, I helped plan out our high school’s first mock trial event. The debate team had been around since my freshman year, but they never considered a mock trial until my graduating year. I wanted to make a good first impression on the debate team since I intended to become team captain. To show my commitment, I volunteered to be a co-lead coordinator for our team which meant I helped recruit participants, organized our plan of action, and was one of the main points of contact for our group before and during the mock trial. Thanks to the efforts of everyone, the competition turned out to be a huge success, and it helped our high school stand out as one of the top debate schools in the Midwest. After that, I was asked to become the captain of the debate team.

23. Describe your personality in three words.

The interviewer is looking for a glimpse of your personality, to understand how you view yourself, and to see if you’re a good fit for the scholarship. Make sure to concentrate on your unique talents and skills in your response and avoid jargon along with irrelevant and pretentious words.

Example: I would say that I am resourceful, creative, and proactive. I have a way of finding solutions to problems, even when the answer isn’t clear. I believe in tackling challenges head-on and am willing to think outside of the box for solutions.

24. How do you start a project?

This question is meant to determine your process for getting something done. The interviewer wants to know if you are organized or just jumping into things.

Example: I start by making a list of all the things that need to be done. Then, I research everything there is on this topic to make sure that the project is feasible. Once I am satisfied with my amount of knowledge, I make an outline for myself before I begin anything else.

25. How did you choose your major?

Interviewers use this question to learn about your passions and interests. When answering, try to align your major to the scholarship. Highlight the attributes of the major you’re excited about but steer clear of talking about money. For example, engineering might be a lucrative major, but talking about it isn’t likely to score you any points. As always, specific examples and stories are more compelling than generalizations.

Example: My father is a doctor and my mother is a nurse, but when they were young, they were both teachers. They taught me that education is the foundation for everything, so I’ve always taken school seriously, and I especially enjoyed my science classes. I initially didn’t want to go into healthcare because I didn’t want to just “follow in the footsteps” of my parents, but after shadowing a doctor for a day, I realized that the field was right for me since it combines education with helping others. I don’t want to be a doctor or nurse like my parents, but I hope to be a biomedical engineer to help build innovative technologies and be a lifelong learner.

Questions About The Opportunity

While scholarship interviews will largely be about you, it’s common for them to also ask about the opportunity itself. Take a proactive approach and prepare yourself to answer questions about the scholarship.

26. Why did you choose to apply for this scholarship?

This question is designed to gauge your interest in the scholarship and your fit with it. Share specifics of what excites you about the scholarship and how it aligns with your college and future goals. Keep your answer positive and focus on the best aspects of the scholarship.

Example: I chose to apply to the Davis-Putter Scholarship because I’ve always been passionate about political activism. Throughout high school, I was active in the fight for women’s rights, particularly reproductive rights. I organized an event at the state capital in support of women’s rights, coordinated a letter-writing campaign at my school to encourage our local elected officials, and created and distributed a list of candidates coming up for election and their stances on women’s rights issues. I’m excited to use this scholarship to learn more about the causes I’m passionate about, meet other organizers, and help make the world a fairer, more equitable place.

27. Why should you be the one to receive this scholarship?

It’s sometimes easier to reposition this question to what makes you unique. Scholarships can receive hundreds, even thousands, of applications—so what makes you stand out and more deserving than other applicants? This is your chance to make a case for yourself and show the interviewer why you’re the right person for the award; link it to your passions, tie it to your skills, and show the positive effect the funds will have.

Example: I am applying for this scholarship because I believe my work ethic and determination make me an excellent candidate. Last year, I helped organize the high school student council’s first blood drive in our county, which was a big success with a 100% participation rate and inspired me to do more community-focused work. This scholarship will help me acquire the education I need to pursue a career in public service.

28. How will you use the scholarship money?

This question is to make sure the scholarship will go to good use. The interviewer wants to know if you are serious about the scholarship application and will represent the scholarship sponsor in a positive light. Have a budget prepared and highlight how you’ll use the funds to further your education. If you don’t have a plan, it will be difficult for the scholarship to believe that this scholarship will be beneficial to either party.

Example: I would use this money toward my bachelor’s degree in sociology with a specialization in gerontology. Furthermore, I would use this opportunity to shadow a gerontologist and volunteer at a nursing home so that I could gain more insight into this field. Having this scholarship would allow me to worry less about finding a paid job to fund unpaid internships or shadowing opportunities and would allow me to focus more on my studies.

How you end an interview can have an enormous influence on your odds of winning an award. The goal is to leave your interviewer confident in your personality, skills, qualifications, and fit for the scholarship.

29. What questions do you have for me?

The interviewer is looking for you to display interest in the program by asking questions. Your response should be tailored to your particular interests and any concerns that you may have had throughout this interview. This is also a great chance to engage your interviewer with questions focused on their experience with the scholarship.

Examples: What was your favorite part of the scholarship program? What characteristics, goals, or accomplishments of the scholarship are you most proud of? What do students say is the best part of this program? What are the former scholarship recipients doing now, particularly those in the fields I’m interested in?

30. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

It is crucial to show the interviewer that you are serious about this program. This question gives you an opportunity to make any additional points or highlight anything that you may have not covered in your response beforehand. If you have something relevant to share that didn’t come up naturally in the interview, this is the time to mention it.

Example: I believe that I am an ideal candidate for this program because my educational background, passions, and future plans align with what this program has to offer. I am excited to be a part of this program and I look forward to hearing from you.

CollegeVine provides a quarterly, no-essay scholarship of $2,000. To sign up, all you have to do is create a free account, which allows you to see your chances of acceptance at 1,600+ schools, get your essays reviewed by a peer, ask questions in our community forum, and more. If you already have an account, just make sure your chancing profile is filled out.

Awards are paid out directly to students to help them cover any educational costs. Learn more about the CollegeVine scholarships .

Answering the Question of What Makes You Unique

Category: Psychology , Life
Topic: Individual , Personality

Pages: 1 (515 words)

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