What Makes You Unique? Best Answers for Interviews in Ireland

When Irish employers ask “What makes you unique?” in an interview, they want to understand what sets you apart from other candidates — beyond your CV. This is your chance to highlight skills, experiences, and traits that make you a strong fit for the role.

Why Employers in Ireland Ask This Question

Employers aren’t looking for a quirky fun fact. They want to know:

• How you differentiate yourself from other applicants.
• Whether your strengths match the company’s needs.
• If you’ve reflected on your personal brand as a professional.

How to Structure Your Answer

1. Highlight one or two traits or skills that align with the job.
2. Give a short example of how you’ve used those traits in practice.
3. Link it back to the employer’s needs — show why it matters for their team.

Sample Answers

Strong communication and adaptability
“I’ve developed excellent communication skills working part-time while studying. I adapt easily to different people and situations, which I believe will help me build strong relationships with colleagues and clients.”

Problem-solving skills
“I enjoy analysing problems and finding practical solutions. For example, in a group project at university, I suggested a new way of organising tasks that helped us finish ahead of schedule.”

Organisational ability
“One of my strengths is staying organised. I use checklists and digital tools to manage my workload, which means I consistently meet deadlines even under pressure.”

Work ethic
“I’m very committed and reliable. In my last job, I often volunteered to cover shifts when needed, which helped the team deliver results during busy times.”

Creativity and fresh perspective
“As someone starting out in my career, I bring a fresh perspective and creative ideas. I’m keen to learn and contribute new approaches to help the team succeed.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being too vague: Saying “I work hard” without examples won’t stand out.
• Focusing only on personality: Employers want professional strengths, not just “I’m friendly.”
• Overconfidence: Avoid comparing yourself negatively to others (“I’m better than most candidates”).

Related Resources

• Read our full guide on common interview questions in Ireland.
• Browse the latest jobs in Ireland