Stand Out as an IT Candidate

CultureFitInterview Tips

The IT job market is extremely competitive and shows no signs of slowing anytime soon. As a candidate, you must go the extra mile to ensure you stand out for all the right reasons. You know the importance of a strong resume and cover letter and of practicing your interviewing skills, but there are some other strategies you can use to show a hiring manager you are the ideal candidate for their role.

Show Values Alignment

The hiring team is evaluating you on your skills and experience, to be sure, but they are also evaluating whether you’d fit in with the group and whether your values align with the company’s values. These factors, often referred to as cultural alignment, are critical for success. No matter how skilled you are, you can’t succeed if you’re working for an organization you don’t believe in.

Study the company website, browse their social media activity and read articles in business journals that shed light on the company’s mission, values and culture. Then, look for places where your values overlap and make sure to discuss those shared values in the interview.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

Most of your competitors will ask standard questions like, “describe a typical day,” so you can be remembered by asking more thoughtful questions. Use this time to uncover vital details about what it’s like to work for the company and show the hiring team you are seriously interested in and considering their company as a potential employer.

Ask questions like:

  • When you think about your ideal candidate, is there anything we’ve talked about today that would make you hesitate to offer me the position?
  • What types of people succeed here?
  • Can you tell me about the performance review process?
  • What is the management style of the person I would report to?
  • What are the strengths and weaknesses of the current team?
  • What group in the company does this team have the most difficulty working with? Why?

These types of questions will ensure you’re remembered and at the same time, help you make a more informed decision if you do receive an offer.

Write a Thank-You Note

This is Interview 101; however, many candidates skip over this step to their detriment. You always want to be a candidate who took the time to send a note. Handwritten notes are ideal, but if the decision timeline is tight, an email will suffice. Send an individual, personal note to each person who interviewed you thanking them for your time, reinforcing your interest in the role and expressing enthusiasm at the prospect of hearing from them soon.

Are You Looking for Tech Jobs in Chicago?

If you are a skilled IT professional looking for tech jobs in Chicago, the recruiters at CultureFit are ready to help. Our team can match you with great opportunities at top organizations in the region. Contact us to accelerate your search.