How to Stand Out in an Interview: Here’s What Really Gets Noticed
One of my favorite parts of working at Indie is being involved in the hiring and onboarding process. It’s a unique chance to connect with people across divisions and see a candidate’s journey from the very first intro call to their in-person interviews.
As our team continues to grow, I’ve had countless conversations with candidates at different stages of the process. While every interview is unique, there are a few simple ways to stand out and leave a lasting impression.
Be professional AND personal!
Professionalism is the starting point in any interview, but it is not enough on its own. What really makes candidates memorable is when they bring both professionalism and personality into the conversation. Rather than sounding rehearsed, talk about what genuinely excites you about the role and how your perspective can add value to the team. Hiring managers want to see that you are polished, but they also want to know who you are as a person.
Follow up is noticed!
Following up is one of the easiest steps in the process, yet it is often overlooked. Send a thank you email within 24 hours of each stage of the interview, whether it is an intro call or a final round. It does not need to be long or overly formal. A short and genuine note shows gratitude, reinforces your interest, and demonstrates initiative. Rather than coming across as over eager, it signals that you value the opportunity and respect the time of the people you met with.
Be prepared!
At Indie, curiosity is one of our core values, and interviews are one of the best times to show it. Every hiring manager will ask “do you have any questions for me?”, so make sure you are ready!
A good strategy is to start broad by asking about the company, team structure, or culture. As you move further into the process, shift to more specific questions about the role, expectations, success measures, or future growth opportunities. This shows that you are not only interested in the job today but also thinking about how you could grow with the company in the long term.
Standing out in an interview does not require a perfect script. What makes the difference is preparation, authenticity, and genuine curiosity. Show up with those qualities, and you will leave a positive impression and build a connection that can last well beyond this one opportunity.
