Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when faced with deceptively simple questions like, “What makes you unique?” For recent graduates, answering this question can feel like a minefield - after all, how do you distinguish yourself when competing with candidates who have similar qualifications? Yet, this question is not just a curveball from recruiters; it is a critical moment to demonstrate self-awareness, value, and fit for the role.
With hiring trends showing an increasing emphasis on individuality and soft skills, mastering this question can be a game-changer. In this article, we’ll break down how graduates can craft compelling responses, and why this question matters to employers.
Why Do Employers Ask This Question?
In an era where companies receive hundreds of applications for a single entry-level role, the ability to differentiate candidates goes beyond academic achievements. Employers are looking for more than just a checklist of technical skills; they want candidates who understand their own strengths and can communicate them effectively. This question helps hiring managers evaluate:
1. Self-Awareness – Can you reflect on your own skills and experiences?
2. Communication Skills – Can you articulate your value clearly and concisely?
3. Cultural Fit – Do your strengths align with what the company values?
Beyond that, this question also serves as a test: If you struggle to explain why you’re special, how will an employer justify picking you over another candidate?
How to Answer the Question Effectively
A strong response to “What makes you unique?” follows a structured approach:
1. Understand What the Employer Values
Tailor your answer to the job description. If a company prioritises adaptability, showcase that. If they emphasise problem-solving, highlight your experiences with it.
2. Identify Your Key Differentiators
Instead of generic traits like “I’m a hard worker” or “I’m passionate about technology,” focus on specific strengths that set you apart. Consider:
Unique experiences (volunteering abroad, running a side project, winning a competition)
Uncommon skill combinations (coding + graphic design, finance + psychology)
Work ethic demonstrated in measurable ways (e.g., consistently meeting tight deadlines)
3. Back It Up with Examples
Concrete examples make your claims credible. Instead of saying, “I’m good at teamwork,” say, “During my second year in university, I coordinated a five-person team to develop an app that won first place in a national competition.” Numbers and achievements make your answer stronger.
4. Keep It Concise and Engaging
Your answer should be no longer than 45-60 seconds. Avoid rambling; instead, structure it like this:
The Trait: What makes you unique?
The Example: When have you demonstrated this?
The Value: How does this benefit the employer?
Examples of Strong Responses
To illustrate how graduates can craft impactful answers, here are a few examples:
Example 1: The Adaptable Problem-Solver
"One thing that makes me unique is my ability to adapt quickly and find solutions under pressure. During my internship at a startup, I was assigned a task outside my expertise - handling client communications. Instead of panicking, I took a crash course in professional emailing and shadowed a team member for a day. By the end of the internship, I had developed a streamlined process for handling client inquiries, which the company still uses today."
Why it works: It highlights adaptability, learning agility, and initiative - qualities highly valued in dynamic workplaces.
Example 2: The Creative Tech Enthusiast
"What sets me apart is my ability to bridge technical knowledge with creativity. I studied computer science, but I also love design. While working on a hackathon project, I noticed that many tech presentations lacked visual appeal. So, I learned graphic design tools and revamped our slides. The result? Our team’s pitch received the highest engagement from judges, and we were invited to present at the closing ceremony."
Why it works: It shows interdisciplinary skills, proactiveness, and an impact-driven mindset.
Example 3: The Resilient Team Player
"I thrive in team environments, and what makes me unique is my ability to maintain motivation and positivity even in challenging situations. In my final year, my group project faced a major setback when half our data was lost. While others were discouraged, I reorganised our workflow, delegated tasks efficiently, and ensured we met our deadline. Our lecturer commended our ability to turn things around, and we ended up receiving top marks."
Why it works: It showcases leadership, resilience, and teamwork - key attributes for collaborative roles.
Final Thoughts
The “What makes you unique?” question is not just about standing out - it’s about proving you can add value in ways others can’t. For recent graduates, crafting a strong answer involves self-reflection, storytelling, and strategic alignment with employer needs.
As hiring trends evolve, one thing is clear: individuality is not just an asset - it’s a necessity. Whether you’re stepping into tech, finance, or creative industries, your ability to articulate what sets you apart can be the key to landing that dream job.
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