Career Clarity & Interview Tips: How to Stand Out & Land the Job
Too many job seekers approach interviews with the wrong mindset. They see themselves as hopeful candidates, waiting for a company to take a chance on them. But hiring managers aren't looking for someone to "give a chance"—they’re looking for someone who can solve a problem or seize an opportunity.
In my latest podcast episode with Matthew Sorensen, we break down exactly how to position yourself as the solution to a company’s needs.
Why Companies Hire
Companies don’t post job openings just to make someone's day. They either:
Have a problem (someone left, there's a gap, or inefficiencies need fixing).
Have an opportunity (they’re growing, launching something new, or entering a new market).
Understanding why a position exists helps you tailor your pitch accordingly. Instead of saying, “I’m looking for a new opportunity,” say, “I’ve helped companies overcome [specific challenge] before, and I’m excited to bring that expertise here.”
Making Yourself Memorable
Hiring managers interview dozens of candidates. The ones who stand out are those with something sticky—something that makes them easy to remember.
Example: Instead of being "another marketing manager," be "the marketer who doubled email conversions for a startup" or "the strategist who led a brand into a new global market." Personal details (like hiking the Appalachian Trail or making legendary pecan pies) also make you memorable in casual conversations.
Bringing a Consultant Mindset
Rather than answering interview questions like a student taking a test, approach them like a consultant diagnosing a challenge.
Instead of: “I would follow company policy to resolve conflicts.”
Say: “Typically, conflicts arise from X or Y. The best way to prevent them is to address the root cause before they escalate.”
This shift makes you sound like someone who understands the business—not just someone reciting a scripted answer.
How to Identify Company Challenges (Even Without Insider Info)
If you don’t have direct insights, research the industry.
What trends, regulations, or economic shifts are impacting similar companies?
Who are their competitors, and what challenges are they facing?
What’s happening in their market that could affect hiring or expansion?
Use tools like ChatGPT to help you identify emerging trends. Then, tailor your application and interview responses accordingly.
Final Thoughts
The best candidates don’t just apply for a job—they present themselves as the solution to a company’s needs. The more you research, personalize, and adopt a consultant mindset, the harder it will be for hiring managers to overlook you.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation with Matthew Sorensen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/destination-dream-job/id1690369609
