What the Interviewer Really Wants To Know
Remember, employers hire workers to solve a problem, whether it’s boosting sales, streamlining processes, or building a brand. Your goal when making your pitch is to show that you’re the best person to solve that problem. Interviewers ask questions about why you should be hired to measure how you qualify for the job and fit in with the company.
How To Answer, “Why Should We Hire You?"
First, try not to feel overwhelmed by the process. We’re going to start by matching your qualifications to the job requirements, brainstorming how these qualifications play out in real life, and then reviewing what makes you stand out as a candidate. Jot down notes as you go through each step. Then we’ll work to combine them into a concise answer. When you’re getting ready for the interview, take a moment to review the job description. Make a list of the requirements for the position, including personality traits, skills, and qualifications. Then, make a list of the qualities you have that fit those requirements. If you’re unsure of where to start, review how to match your qualifications to a job. Don’t forget to think beyond the job description and consider which of your skills and accomplishments make you a better candidate than the competition. For example, maybe you have an additional certification that makes you more knowledgeable about the company’s product than a typical salesperson. When you’re honing your pitch, remember to be positive and reiterate your interest in the company and the position.
Examples of the Best Answers
Review some sample answers that you can use to help you frame your own response to the question. Why It Works: The response makes a match between the requirements that the employer lists in the job posting and the candidate’s qualifications and skill set, showing the hiring manager why the applicant is a good fit for the job. Why It Works: With this response, the interviewee includes an anecdote to illustrate their qualifications. You’ll make a much stronger case by showing rather than telling. Why It Works: The interviewer wants to know how you stand out among the other applicants. This response focuses on the qualities that are different from what other interviewees might offer or are more difficult to find in candidates generally. Why It Works: This response provides details on the candidate’s experience, successes, and key qualifications for the role, while highlighting related success.
Tips for Giving the Best Response
Show how you will add value. For each qualification or strength that you’ve identified, think of a specific time when you used that trait to achieve something. Think about any other skills you may have that would add extra value, or any previous professional, personal, or volunteer experiences that provide you with a unique perspective. Ultimately, this is your chance to tell the interviewer why you would be an invaluable employee. Keep your response short and focused. You want your answer to be brief. Select one or two specific qualities from the list you created to emphasize in your sales pitch. If you aren’t sure which to include, take another look at the job description and use your analytical skills to determine which qualifications would add the greatest business value. Tell a story. Take your qualifications and share a brief story that illustrates how you’ve effectively used them in a previous work experience. Begin by discussing what you believe the employer is looking for, and then explain, using your qualification and your anecdote, how you fulfill that need. Your answer should be no more than one to two minutes long.
What Not To Say
Don’t give a memorized response. While it’s important to practice this pitch for fluid delivery, don’t go crazy trying to memorize it. Rather, have a general idea of what you’re going to say and tailor it based on how the interview is going. For example, if an interviewer indicates that another quality or skill is more valuable to the organization, then you should be sure to work that into your response. Don’t make it about you. The hiring manager is looking for what you can offer the company, not what they can do for you. Focus on your key strengths and qualifications for the job, rather than on what you are looking for in your next position.
Possible Follow-Up Questions
Why shouldn’t we hire you? Best Answers Why are you the best candidate for the job? Best Answers What can you contribute to this company? Best Answers
