Consider these example answers to help you prepare your own: Show
Example 1‘I’ve been a fan of your work for many years, so when I saw the open position with your company, I knew I had to apply. I was especially inspired by the campaign with the local football team two years ago. I really admire the creativity that comes out of this agency, and I think I could use my skills and experience as an art director to become a valued contributor to this company.’ Example 2‘Several months ago I read an article about the outreach program that you have here, and I was so impressed. I try to give back any way that I can, and I’m excited to be a part of a company that holds the same values as I do.’ Example 3‘I’ve purchased and used your software for at least five years now, and I’m constantly impressed by your latest developments and innovations. In my work, I’m constantly searching for new, groundbreaking solutions, so I would love to be a part of a team that values innovation as much as I do.’ Example 4‘Your company consistently ranks as one of the best places to work in the country, and the employee testimonials make it clear why. This company’s enthusiasm for developing its employees by providing resources, training, and education has fostered a creative and productive environment of professionals that are truly engaged with their work. As a result, you have created some of the most impressive campaigns that I’ve ever seen. I’d love to be a part of such a hardworking team.’ Example 5‘This company has a reputation in the industry for having a management infrastructure that rewards hard work and supports continued development. I think I would make a great fit and be able to start making an impact immediately.’ Example 6‘I recently read an article about the new CEO, Ward Snyder, and the company’s renewed commitment to innovation under his leadership. Innovation is at the forefront of all of my work, so I feel that I could not only thrive but actively contribute in this type of environment.’ Example 7‘This company is world-renowned for the technology you create. In just the past year you have won a number of awards for your latest software. I would love to bring my experience of developing new IT products to contribute to a team that is this resourceful, hardworking, and collaborative.’ Example 8‘After reading your company’s vision and mission, it’s clear that many of my professional goals align with the company’s purpose. Because of this, I think I would be a great asset to this already incredible team of engaged employees.’ Example 9‘I’ve been inspired by your company’s brand, style, and tone for years now. I’ve worked to develop professionally in that time so that I could join this wonderful team one day and provide real value to the company.’ Example 10‘I’ve been doing a lot of research to prepare for this interview, and I am most impressed by your goals and the work you’ve been doing to reach them. I read that you are growing your technical writing department, and that is my specialty. I think I could bring experience and value to the team.’ Example 11‘I’ve been working in the service industry for over 10 years, and I’m ready to apply this experience and expertise at a company that is dedicated to its employees and providing excellent customer service.’ Example 12‘I really admire that, despite being in business for over two decades, your company has never wavered in its mission or values. When I began looking for a new role, I purposefully sought out your company because of your dedication to innovation, philanthropy, and integrity.’
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If you’ve been invited to an interview, you can expect to be asked some variation of the question, "Why do you want to work here?". People often dismiss this as a trick question, or assume that the interviewer is only looking to hear how great the company is. Yet it is arguably the most significant question an interviewer can ask you. It is also extremely difficult to answer well. This article will outline exactly what your interviewer is looking for, typical mistakes candidates make, how to prepare your answer and similar versions of the question. What Is the Interviewer Really Asking?When you are faced with the question ‘Why do you want to work here?’ you may feel overwhelmed. However, your interviewer isn't going to ask you to recite all of their industry awards from memory. Nor do they want you to feed them empty compliments. The interview is about you. Your interviewer wants to know:
You need to structure your answer in two parts:
We will unpick these questions below, but first, let's look at some example answers from job experts: ‘Why Do You Want to Work Here?’ Template AnswersUse the below examples to help you pull together your own answer. Remember to structure your answer in two parts, and bear the above points in mind. Example Answer 1
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How to Prepare for the QuestionNow you know how not to answer, it's time to prepare your best response to ‘Why do you want to work here?’. Here are some tips: 1. Think About Why You Want This Job in ParticularResearch the role and figure out why it interests you. Think about how the job description matches your skill set, ambitions and what you genuinely like most about the business. For example, some of these may apply:
2. Think About Your Career Goals and How They Align With the Company’sA short-term career goal might be to gain more experience in customer service. Whereas a long-term goal might be to aspire to a management position. Make sure your career goal is relevant to the job role. Here are some examples of how you can link your career goals with the company’s objectives:
3. Think About Why You Want to Work at This Company in ParticularMake sure you read the company’s website and any news articles you can find. A company’s blog can also be useful, since it will list important projects the company has worked on and focus on topics which are of value to the company. If you have any connections within your network who have worked with the company, it’s also a good idea to speak with them to find out more about the company from someone who has experienced it first-hand. Some other ideas to think about when undertaking your research are:
Five Typical Mistakes Candidates MakeBefore delving into how you answer the ‘Why do you want to work here?’ question, here is some advice on how not to approach it. 1. HumourMost interviewers will not appreciate a humorous answer. It makes you appear insincere or suggests that you don’t know how to answer the question. Avoid:
2. AmbiguityThe interviewer doesn’t want to hear vague compliments about how their company “looks really cool”. Ambiguous answers will indicate that you haven’t done any research on the organisation or thought about why you want the job at all. Avoid:
3. Not Relating Your Answer to the Job or CompanyIt is surprising how often candidates forget to mention the job they are applying for altogether. Avoid:
4. Being Too HonestEven if you’re just here for the money, don’t confess this to your interviewer. Never lie, but keep your answer focused on the job role and why you would be a great addition to the company. Avoid:
5. Saying You Don’t KnowIf you cannot come up with a single reason why the company should hire you, they probably won’t. Similar Questions: How They Are DifferentThere are many variations of the ‘Why do you want to work here?’ question that you may be asked at interview. Here are some examples of similar questions which ask the same thing:
However, make sure you listen carefully to the question you are being asked; some will require a different answer than you first expect. Never repeat a pre-prepared response without listening carefully to the question. For example: “What qualities can you bring to this role?”This question differs because it focuses less on what you personally think about the role. Instead, talk about your specific achievements and how you can apply your skills to the job. Example answer:
This answer is good because the candidate has specified a unique skill which will set them apart from the other candidates and backed it up with an example. “Why should we hire you?”This question is used to single out the very best of the qualified candidates. We have a whole article about this one question. The interviewer wants to know:
It differs from the ‘Why do you want to work here?’ question because it is less about your personal interest in the job and more about what you can do for the company. Come up with at least three reasons you stand out from the crowd. For example:
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“How are you a good fit for this company?”This question differs because it focuses on your understanding of the company’s culture and what skills you can contribute. Ensure you research the company and its values. Think about how your own goals and values coincide. Then answer the question by:
Here are some ideas to think about when interpreting the company’s culture:
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Final ThoughtsPreparing to answer interview questions can be daunting, but follow the advice in this article and you will arrive at your interview prepared to impress. Remember:
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