What separates a good answer from a great one

What separates a good answer from a great one In such a crowded and competitive job market, you cant afford to settle for good you have to aspire to great. And before you hit the panic button, Im talking applications, not experience. Many students produce good applications that seem to hit the right notes, but the tune is more Radio 2, than Mercury Prize. So how do you ensure recruiters tune in, not out? We filmed on location at our recent Impact Fair and posed this very question to some of our graduate recruiters. Watch, listen and learn! Now those of you familiar with presentations will know the key to success is tell them and once youve told them, tell em again. So, points to remember: Do your research Research is not just a case of regurgitating what youve read on the website or glossy brochures.  Show that you really understand the company vision, values and culture and use this knowledge to inform and shape your answers. Take a 360 degree approach to your research dont just scratch the surface. Think about the fit Consider your fit within the organisation. Can you articulate how, where and why you will make or have the potential to make a valuable contribution? If youre struggling with the motivational aspect of your application form, this should tell you something. Use the STAR approach Many applications are heavy on description and light on analysis (or as we careers folk like to say reflection). Focus on action and results, and go easy on the narrative style. And remember: YOU are the protagonist of your career story so think I not we when it comes to examples. Give good examples Give good examples to highlight your skills and attributes. If you can draw from a range of experiences academic, extra-curricular and work it will certainly strengthen your application, but it isnt simply a numbers game. Quality will generally trump quantity. Dont exaggerate A little creative licence cant hurt, can it? Wrong! Graduate recruiters are well versed in application trickery and can spot a fake a mile off. Even if you do slip through the net, the chances are your mask will slip at the interview stage. A great answer sounds authentic and alive, not inflated and contrived.