Ask the Expert Dr. Kathleen Wells is a professional career coach and Director of Coaches That Care. She has coached thousands of clients through the stages of successful career development. Stand out in the crowd Q: I'm applying for an executive marketing position for a large company. What is the most effective way to stand out from the other candidates? A: I love this question! I had a client who was the perfect example of what to do. She did her research on the company and the problems it faced in marketing its products. Between her second and third interviews, she developed a complete marketing plan to solve their problems. When she laid it out for them, the interview panel was impressed by not only her ideas, but also by the time and effort she had put into her proposal. She showed them she had initiative, enthusiasm for the job, and she proved to them she had creative marketing skills. Needless to say, she was hired on the spot. Short of doing an entire marketing plan, you can do your research, discern the problems the company has and, during the interview, ask questions that reflect options for solving those problems. You will be showing your own interest in the company, your creativity and that you have done your research.