“Why should we hire you?”: 6 ways to respond to this job interview question
One of the most common questions you may get during a job interview is “Why should we hire you?” This question can be intimidating, but it also gives you an opportunity to stand out from other applicants. After all, hiring managers want to know that you’re the best person for the job.
You have to show them why you are a great fit for the position and their company. That means giving thoughtful and detailed answers about why you are exactly what they need, how your skills directly align with what their business needs right now, and how you will advance their mission as an organization.
If you aren’t sure how to answer this question, don’t worry! With the right preparation and practice, you can leave recruiters with a great impression.
1. Why do employers ask this question?
Hiring managers ask, “Why should we hire you?” because they want to know if you actually looked into the job and learned more about it or if you just applied because it was available.
Potential employers also want to know if you have the skills for the job and why you’d be the best fit for the role.
This is your chance to show your value and make them remember you. In order to properly sell yourself, you need to prepare and give an answer that will convince them and help you stand out.
2. Why should they hire you? You’re the best candidate
Prove that you're the best person for the job. You won’t be able to know what the other candidates bring to the table, but you know what you can offer. Explain that you can go the extra mile and deliver great results.
Highlight your strengths, experience and relevant accomplishments that will let recruiters know that you’d be a great addition to the team.
Do your research on the company and explain that you would match well with your values and company culture.
Use the job description to your advantage. Use the information to describe how they would benefit from hiring you. Let them know that your skills will help them meet their goals and grow.
3. What should your answer include?
Your answer should be tailored to the job offer. Make sure you know what they are looking for and emphasize that you have the skills that they’re looking for.
Remember to give specific examples in your answer. Just make sure you mention things that are relevant to the job.
Share information that will convince them to hire you. Repeating things that they already know won’t make you seem like a better candidate. Don’t memorize your CV, but focus on the main points that you need to emphasize with a short explanation and strong example.
4. Choose a couple of key points to make
This is not a question that you can improvise. It’s important to prepare a few main points that you can tailor to each job offer.
Focus on what you can offer the company and how you would bring value to the organization. Stay on the topic of your key skills and qualifications.
Avoid talking about money. It’s a major factor for everyone, so there’s no need to bring it up. Same with benefits. If you are only interested in the perks, the company will think you’re not serious about the job.
5. Practice your answer
Practice is key to answer this question. This will also help you feel more confident when you’re actually in the job interview. Make sure that you practice your body language as well. You might sound convincing, but if your body says otherwise, recruiters won’t be impressed.
Show your enthusiasm for the job! Even if you have less experience, recruiters want someone with the right attitude and that is motivated.
Practice your answer in front of a mirror or record yourself on your phone. The benefit of filming yourself is that you can rewatch it and check your body language and your answers. You can even practice with a friend or family member.
Bring your personality into the answer. It’s not just memorizing your CV. You want your answer to be concise and tailored to the job you are applying for. Share your skills that would benefit the company the most.
6. Be confident and prepared
The right answer to this question can help you get the job so be honest and confident in your answer.
Research the company and understand what they need so you can show off how you can help them overcome any challenges. The more you know about them and their values, the more information you’ll have to frame your answer.
Believe in yourself and your abilities. If they asked you for an interview, it’s because you have potential. Don’t stress too much about this question, just focus on what you can offer employers.
“Why do you want to work here?” can seem like a tricky question. Here are 5 ways to show your eagerness to recruiters. Read more here →
