The key to acing any job interview is to prepare well in advance, especially when it comes to answering some of the most common questions – one of them being the “Why do you want this job?” question. As a job seeker, your answer to this question can make or break your chances of getting the job, which is why it is essential to prepare for it.
The purpose of this article is to help job seekers understand the importance of answering the “Why do you want this job?” interview question and master it. We’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to answer this question, why it matters, and the different approaches you can take in your response. By the end of this article, you’ll be better equipped to answer this question with confidence and impress the interviewer.
In the following sections, we will discuss the importance of answering this question, the different approaches you can take when answering this question, and how to tailor your response to the specific job and company you are applying to. We will also provide some tips on what to avoid when answering this question, common mistakes people make and how to avoid them, and finally, offer some advice on how to practice your response to this question.
This article will provide you with all the information you need to prepare for this question and ace your next job interview. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Question
When an interviewer asks “why do you want this job?”, they are trying to uncover a few key things about the candidate. Firstly, they want to know if the candidate has done their research and has a genuine interest in the company and the role itself. Additionally, they want to see if the candidate’s motivations align with the values and goals of the organization.
There are many different ways that this question may be asked, including:
- Why are you interested in this position?
- What made you apply for this job?
- Why do you feel you are a good fit for our company?
Regardless of how the question is phrased, it is important to approach it in a thoughtful and strategic way.
A good answer to this question should include a few key components. Firstly, the candidate should demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the company and the position they are applying for. This can be achieved by referencing specific aspects of the job description or mission statement. Secondly, the candidate should highlight how their own skills and experience align with the requirements of the role. They should provide concrete examples and metrics to support their claims. Finally, the candidate should explain why they are excited about the opportunity to work for the company and how they see themselves fitting into the organization’s culture and values.
By taking the time to prepare a thoughtful and well-crafted answer to this question, candidates can demonstrate their enthusiasm for the role and set themselves apart from other applicants.
Steps to Ace the Question
Preparing for an interview is crucial in order to give the best response to why you want the job. These are some steps that will help you to ace the question:
Preparation tips for the interview
Preparation is key when it comes to interviews. Don’t wait until the last minute to get organized. Make sure to take the following steps:
- Review the job description and research the company
- Prepare your answers to other common questions, such as your strengths and weaknesses or your previous work experience
- Get comfortable with the format of the interview, whether it’s in-person or virtual
Researching the company and the role
Researching the company and the role will help you to understand their goals, values, and culture. Here are some research tips you can follow:
- Explore the company’s website, social media pages, and LinkedIn profile
- Read articles about the company or the industry
- Check Glassdoor or other similar sites for reviews from current and former employees
Analyzing your own motivations and values
Before the interview, take some time to understand your own motivations and values. Think about:
- What motivates you about this role?
- What are your professional goals, and how does this role fit in with those?
- How does this role align with your values and interests?
Tailoring your answer to the job and the company culture
When crafting your answer, make sure to tailor it to the job and the company’s culture. Some tips to keep in mind:
- Use specific examples from your research to show your understanding of the company’s goals and values
- Highlight how your own motivations and values align with those of the company
- Show how your skills and experience make you a good fit for the role
By following these steps, you’ll be able to give a thoughtful and well-prepared answer to the question “Why do you want this job?” which will greatly increase your chances of acing the interview.
Crafting a Strong Answer
Crafting a strong answer to the question “Why do you want this job?” can require careful preparation and practice. Here are some strategies to keep in mind when answering this important interview question:
Examples of Good and Bad Answers
An effective answer to this question should avoid generic responses that could apply to any job. Instead, it should be specifically tailored to the company and position being applied for. Here are some examples of good and bad answers:
Good answer: “I am excited about the opportunity to work for ABC Company because of its commitment to sustainable business practices. As someone who is passionate about sustainability, I have been following your initiatives for some time, and I believe I could make a valuable contribution to your team.”
Bad answer: “I want this job because it seems like a good fit for my skills and experience.”
How to Structure Your Answer Effectively
A strong answer to this question should follow a clear and logical structure. Here are some tips to help you structure your answer effectively:
- Start with a brief introduction that explains why you are interested in the company and position.
- Use specific examples to highlight your skills and experience that make you a good fit for the job.
- Explain how your goals align with the company’s mission and values.
- Summarize your answer by reiterating why you are excited about the opportunity to work for the company.
Tips for Showcasing Your Experience and Skills
To effectively showcase your experience and skills, it’s important to be specific and provide examples. Use the job description and research about the company to identify the key skills and experiences they are looking for. Here are some tips to help you showcase your experience and skills:
- Highlight accomplishments from your past jobs that demonstrate your relevant skills.
- Use numbers or percentages to quantify your achievements wherever possible.
- Emphasize how your experience can benefit the company.
Techniques for Showing Enthusiasm and Personality
Finally, it’s important to show enthusiasm and personality when answering this question. This can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your passion for the job. Here are some techniques to use:
- Be authentic and genuine in your answers.
- Use active and engaging language to convey your enthusiasm.
- Share personal anecdotes or stories that demonstrate your passion for the job or industry.
- Use a positive and upbeat tone throughout your answer.
By following these strategies, you can craft a strong and effective answer to the question “Why do you want this job?” that showcases your experience, skills, and personality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
During a job interview, you want to make sure you present yourself in the best light possible. However, there are several common mistakes that could ruin your chances of getting the job. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
Overselling yourself or being too vague
It’s important to strike a balance between highlighting your skills and experience and coming across as boastful. Avoid exaggerating your accomplishments or using vague language that doesn’t demonstrate your expertise. Instead, be specific and provide concrete examples of how your skills can benefit the company.
Making negative statements about your current job or employer
Even if you’re unhappy in your current job, avoid speaking negatively about it or your employer during the interview. This can make you appear unprofessional and may raise concerns about your ability to work well with others.
Failing to address the company’s needs and goals
It’s important to demonstrate how you can contribute to the company’s success. Make sure you thoroughly research the company beforehand and tailor your answers to align with their goals and values. Failing to do so could make you appear disinterested in the job or ignorant about the company and its priorities.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of making a positive impression and landing the job. Remember to be genuine, prepared, and focused on the needs of the company. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the interview question, “Why do you want this job?”
Handling Challenging Situations
During a job interview, you may encounter situations that catch you off guard, such as unexpected questions or objections, as well as sensitive issues like salary expectations. However, with the right strategies in place, you can turn these challenging situations to your advantage.
Dealing with Unexpected Questions or Objections
When faced with a question or objection that you did not anticipate, it’s essential to remain calm and composed. Take a deep breath and carefully listen to the interviewer’s concern. Then, take a moment to formulate a thoughtful response.
One useful strategy is to rephrase the question or objection in a way that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments. For example, if the interviewer asks about a gap in your employment history, highlight a project you worked on during that time that demonstrates relevant skills or knowledge.
Another approach is to acknowledge the concern and pivot the conversation to a related topic that you’re better prepared to address. You can say something like, “That’s a great question, and I think it ties into my experience in XYZ. Let me tell you more about that.”
Addressing Salary Expectations or Other Sensitive Issues
Talking about salary expectations or other sensitive topics can be uncomfortable, but it’s crucial to be honest and transparent with the interviewer. Research salary ranges for similar positions in your industry and geographic location and determine your acceptable range.
When discussing salary expectations, start by emphasizing your interest in the position and the company’s mission. Then, provide a range that you’re comfortable with, and explain how you determined it. If the interviewer offers a salary lower than your expectations, ask if other benefits or opportunities for growth are available to negotiate a comprehensive package.
For other sensitive issues, such as a criminal record or disability, focus on highlighting your relevant skills and accomplishments. Explain how you overcame challenges and demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity. Emphasize that you’re committed to succeeding in the position and contributing to the company’s success.
Strategies for Turning the Question to Your Advantage
Finally, a useful strategy for turning challenging questions to your advantage is to bridge back to your strengths and unique value proposition. Whenever possible, highlight an accomplishment or project that demonstrates your relevant skills and experience. Use storytelling techniques and concrete details to make the case for why you’re the best candidate for the position.
Another approach is to ask intelligent and thoughtful questions about the company’s goals, challenges, and culture. This not only shows your interest and engagement but also helps you understand the company’s priorities and how you can contribute.
Handling challenging situations during a job interview requires preparation, poise, and strategic thinking. With patience and practice, you can turn unexpected questions or objections, salary discussions, or other sensitive issues to your advantage and land your dream job.
Adjusting Your Answer for Different Job Levels
When answering the evergreen question, “Why do you want this job?” during an interview, it’s essential to adapt the response based on the job level you’re applying for.
Adapting Your Answer for Entry-Level, Mid-Career, and Executive Positions
When seeking an entry-level position, your answer should focus on your passion for the industry and your eagerness to learn and take on new challenges. Emphasize your willingness to start at the bottom and work your way up, and mention any relevant skills or qualifications that make you a great fit for the role.
For mid-career positions, you should incorporate more of your professional experience and accomplishments into your answer. Highlight how your skills and past achievements prepare you for a job of this level and how the company’s mission aligns with your goals or values.
For executive-level roles, your answer should demonstrate your leadership experience, strategic thinking, and what you can bring to the table that sets you apart from other candidates. Demonstrate how you’ve managed teams, led initiatives, and achieved significant results for previous employers.
Avoiding Generic or Overqualified Responses
It’s crucial to avoid generic or overqualified responses, regardless of the job level you’re applying for. Avoid using buzzwords or generic statements like “I’m a team player” or “I’m a hard worker.” Instead, provide specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated teamwork or your work ethic.
For executive-level positions, avoid coming off as overqualified, which can make employers feel like you’ll quickly leave when a better opportunity arises. Instead, focus on why you’re passionate about the company and how this position aligns with your long-term career goals.
Highlighting the Right Accomplishments and Goals for Each Level
When answering the “why do you want this job?” question for different job levels, it’s crucial to highlight the right accomplishments and goals. For entry-level positions, focus on your willingness to learn and your passion for the industry. For mid-career roles, highlight your professional achievements and how the company’s mission aligns with your goals. For executive-level positions, focus on your leadership experience and how you can add value to the company.
Adjusting your answer for different job levels requires different approaches to demonstrate your qualifications and how you will fit in the organization’s culture. By avoiding generic responses and highlighting your accomplishments and goals, you can present yourself as the best fit for the job.
Handling the “Why Should We Hire You?” Question
When it comes to job interviews, “Why should we hire you?” is one of the most common and challenging questions that candidates face. This question is similar to the “Why do you want this job?” question, but there are some key differences.
Comparison with the “Why do you want this job?” question
The “Why do you want this job?” question is often focused on the candidate’s personal motivations and career goals. It’s an opportunity for the candidate to demonstrate their enthusiasm and passion for the role and the company. On the other hand, the “Why should we hire you?” question is more focused on what the candidate can bring to the company. It’s an opportunity for the candidate to highlight their value proposition and why they are the best fit for the role.
Strategies for highlighting your value proposition
To answer the “Why should we hire you?” question effectively, you need to demonstrate that you have the right skills, experience, and qualities to succeed in the role. Some strategies for highlighting your value proposition include:
Showcasing your relevant experience and skills: Discuss specific experiences and skills that make you a good fit for the role. Provide concrete examples that illustrate your ability to perform the required tasks and responsibilities.
Highlighting your achievements: Identify key achievements that demonstrate your ability to deliver results and make a positive impact. This can help to showcase your value and potential contributions to the company.
Demonstrating your passion and enthusiasm: While the “Why should we hire you?” question is more focused on your skills and experience, it’s still important to demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for the role and the company. This can help to differentiate you from other candidates and showcase your commitment to the role.
Tips for aligning your answer with the company’s needs
To answer the “Why should we hire you?” question effectively, it’s important to align your answer with the company’s needs and priorities. Some tips for doing this include:
Researching the company: Before the interview, research the company to gain a better understanding of its mission, values, and goals. This can help you to tailor your answer to the company’s needs and priorities.
Identifying key pain points: Think about the key challenges and pain points that the company is facing and how you can help to address them. This can help to demonstrate your value proposition and differentiate you from other candidates.
Articulating your unique value proposition: Finally, make sure that you articulate your unique value proposition and how it aligns with the company’s needs. This can help to demonstrate your fit for the role and why you are the best candidate for the job.
The “Why should we hire you?” question is a crucial part of any job interview.
Examples of Great Answers
In this section, we’ll provide real-life examples of successful answers to the question, “Why do you want this job?” We’ll analyze why these answers work and what you can learn from them.
Example 1
Interviewer: “Why do you want to work for our company?”
Candidate: “I have been a long-time admirer of your brand and the work you do in the industry. I appreciate the values that you uphold and the impact you have on people’s lives. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to such a respected organization.”
Why it works: This answer effectively demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of the company and values. Their enthusiasm and desire to contribute are clear, which shows they are a good fit for the company culture.
What you can learn: Do your research on the company and be specific about why you want to work there. Show enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute to the organization’s success.
Example 2
Interviewer: “What interests you about this position?”
Candidate: “I am excited about the opportunity to work on a team of experts in the field and learn from their experience. The job description aligns with my skills and career goals. I’m also drawn to the company’s commitment to innovation and the chance to be a part of a dynamic and growing team.”
Why it works: In this answer, the candidate demonstrates their interest in professional development and growth. They show a clear understanding of the position and what is required, and their passion for the company’s mission and values is evident.
What you can learn: Focus on how the position fits into your long-term career goals. Show why you are a good fit for the position and the company by highlighting your relevant skills and experience.
Example 3
Interviewer: “What motivates you to apply for this role?”
Candidate: “I’m motivated by the challenge of taking on more responsibility and contributing to the company’s success. I’m also drawn to the opportunity to work with a diverse group of professionals and learn from their expertise. The company’s commitment to work-life balance and employee satisfaction is also appealing to me.”
Why it works: This answer showcases the candidate’s desire for growth and development. They express their motivation for taking on more responsibility and their interest in learning from others. They also highlight their compatibility with the company’s values and priorities.
What you can learn: Demonstrate your desire for growth and development in your answer. Show how your skills and experience align with the position and company values. Express your motivation for contributing to the company’s success.
These examples demonstrate the importance of doing research on the company and position, expressing enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute, focusing on growth and development, and showcasing compatibility with the company’s culture and values. Use these examples as a guide to craft your own successful answer to the question, “Why do you want this job?”
Tips for Follow-Up and Closing
After acing tough interview questions like “why do you want this job,” it’s important to ensure that you leave a lasting impression with the interviewer. This can be achieved by mastering the art of follow-up and closing. Here are some tips on how to do this effectively:
Closing your answer effectively and confidently
Closing your answer appropriately can help you convey your interest in the job and leave a positive impression with the interviewer. One effective way to do this is by summarizing your response with a statement that conveys your enthusiasm for the job. For example, “I am passionate about this role and believe that I would be a great asset to the company.”
Another tip is to always thank the interviewer for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the job. This can help you leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of advancing to the next stage of the hiring process.
Strategies for continuing the conversation and building rapport
Building rapport with the interviewer can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of securing the job. One effective way to do this is by asking insightful questions about the company and the position. This demonstrates your interest in the job and shows that you have done your research.
Another tip is to actively listen to the interviewer and respond thoughtfully to their questions. This can help you develop a connection with the interviewer and make them more likely to remember you in the future.
Planning for follow-up actions and thank-you notes
Following up after the interview is essential, as it can help you stay top-of-mind with the interviewer and increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. One effective way to do this is by sending a thank-you note within 24-48 hours of the interview. This demonstrates your gratitude for the opportunity to interview and shows that you have excellent follow-through skills.
Another tip is to plan for follow-up actions, such as additional interviews or sending additional application materials. This shows that you are proactive and serious about the job.
Mastering the art of follow-up and closing can help you leave a lasting impression with the interviewer and increase your chances of securing the job. Implementing these tips can help you build rapport with the interviewer and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job, setting you apart from other candidates.