That's my thing

For recruiters and company hiring managers alike, interviewing a shortlist of candidates for a particular role can be a gruelling experience. Although sufficient appraisals are recorded to identify and rate each candidate, it can still be difficult at times to remember the particulars of each person if the interviews have come in quick succession.

So how do you overcome this problem as a candidate? Some people find names or faces harder to recall than others, so it should be your priority to stand out. This does not mean you should be perusing the supermarket aisles for a different hair colour, or training your iguana to sit in your top pocket. Your physical appearance is not the focus - it should be what makes you distinctive on paper, which you are then able to discuss in person.

Everyone has characteristics which make them unique, and sometimes it's not always a simple process identifying them. At TalentWax, we talk to our clients extensively - to bring up old memories, sidelined memories, past projects, great events, small interests...achievements and pursuits which just need a pair of fresh eyes and ears to make them new and fascinating again.

If you are really strugling to put together a list of unique and distinctive features on yourself, starting something new is a great interview topic and demonstrates initiative. "Good question - how do I meet challenges in a team environment. I have actually just started playing touch football/water polo/clarinet with a local bunch of people, so teamwork is very important and rewarding to me." WELL - you're a different person entirely now, not just a 2-page work history in a suit. It doesn't have to be a group thing, you could be writing a novel, learning photography, studying japanese or making a treehouse.

If you can combine your resume with some positive, unique traits which you can really talk about, you'll definitely stand out in the interview queue and be remembered for more than just your career and abilities. You might be thereafter known as that one who is getting his pilot's licence, that one who runs marathons, that one who knows sign language or that one who caters for children's parties. It's a great way to build confidence and self-esteem if you can plan in advance for how you want to be recalled.