Nailing the 'Why are You Better Than Other Candidates' Interview Question: A Comprehensive Guide

When preparing for a job interview, one of the most critical questions you might be asked is, 'Why are you better than other candidates in terms of skills?' This question is designed to assess not only your technical capabilities but also your ability to articulate these skills and your commitment to professional growth. Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively answer this question and stand out from other candidates.

Highlight Relevant Skills

The first step in answering this question is to identify the key skills required for the position. This involves a thorough review of the job description and requirements. Once you have identified the necessary skills, select a few where you excel and that align closely with the job description. This will help you tailor your response to show why you are a strong candidate for the role.

Provide Evidence

Simply stating that you have certain skills is not enough. You need to provide concrete examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your proficiency in these skills. Using specific instances from your career highlights your achievements and shows how you have effectively applied your skills in previous roles. For instance, if you are applying for a project management position, you could mention an example where you successfully managed a project that was completed ahead of schedule and within budget. Preferably, quantify your achievements where possible, such as reducing project turnaround times by 15%.

Show Continuous Improvement

Mention any relevant certifications, courses, or ongoing learning that show your commitment to professional development. This demonstrates that you are proactive and dedicated to enhancing your skill set. For example, you could say, 'I recently completed an advanced certification in project management, which has helped me refine my leadership skills and improve my ability to manage complex projects effectively.'

Emphasize Soft Skills

Soft skills, such as interpersonal skills like teamwork, communication, or leadership, often complement technical abilities and can set you apart from other candidates. Discuss how your soft skills have positively impacted your past work environments and how you can bring these skills to the company you are interviewing with. For instance, you could say, 'I have a strong ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and have facilitated successful projects that met or exceeded all expectations. My leadership skills have enabled me to mentor and motivate team members, resulting in higher productivity and job satisfaction.'

Align with Company Values

Research the company culture and values and explain how your skills and experiences align with them. This demonstrates that you are not just skilled but also a good fit for the organization. Show that you understand the company’s mission and that your skills will contribute to achieving its goals. For example, you could say, 'I understand that your company values innovation and teamwork, and I am excited about the opportunity to bring my background in both areas to contribute positively to your team. My past experiences in leading innovative projects and collaborating with cross-functional teams have prepared me well for this role.'

To give you a concrete example of how to respond:

Additionally, I pride myself on my communication skills. In my last role, I facilitated cross-departmental meetings that improved workflow and reduced project turnaround times by 15%. I understand that your company values innovation and teamwork, and I am excited about the opportunity to bring my background in both areas to contribute positively to your team. This structured approach not only showcases your skills but also demonstrates your thoughtfulness and preparation for the interview.

If the job requires specific skills, be sure to discuss your past work experiences and projects that demonstrate how you effectively utilized these skills. Your education and past projects can provide valuable information for the interviewer. To get an edge, having a deep understanding of the department, its customers, and how your work can impact the organization’s goals can set you apart. We also help candidates prepare for their interviews with mock interviews, and you can check our site for more resources and tips.

In conclusion, answering the 'Why are you better than other candidates' question effectively is key to standing out during a job interview. By highlighting relevant skills, providing evidence, showing continuous improvement, emphasizing soft skills, and aligning with company values, you can make a strong case for why you are the ideal candidate.