How to Properly Answer the “Why do you want to work for us?” Interview Question
This seemingly simple interview question continues to trip up the unprepared candidate. A good answer involves thorough research of the company to learn as much as possible and could include reasons such as an excellent company reputation, a work culture and set of values that are closely linked to your own, or an admiration of the products/services it offers.
How to Answer: “Why Do You Want This Job?”
Before you can adequately answer this question, you need to understand the reasons it is asked. Many applicants believe it is a ‘dumb’ question, but in reality, the hiring manager wants to know whether you will fit into the company’s culture, what your motivations are for seeking the job, and also see if you are likely to stick around.
Answering this question takes some research on your part.
Here are 5 things you must do to provide a killer response:
1 – Research the Company’s Website
A lack of knowledge of what the organisation does and what it stands for will become apparent if you don’t review its website. Check out the About Us page and see if the firm has been mentioned much in the media in the form of articles or press releases. It is also worth perusing the Careers section of the site if it has one.
2 – Dig into The Company’s Social Media
High flying companies have a significant social media presence, so take a look to see if it posts any industry news on its Facebook or Twitter pages. LinkedIn is also a potential treasure trove of information. You could find someone on your network who already works at the company. Ask them for any insights they can share.
3 – Take a CLOSE Look at the Job Description
Analyse the job responsibilities to ensure you have a keen understanding of what the role actually entails. It is hard to convince anyone that you belong at a company when you don’t even know what you are supposed to be doing!
4 – Compare Your Career Objectives with the Things You Like About the Job
Ideally, you will find a few commonalities between what you hope to achieve in your career, and what you’ll be doing in the job. Analyse how the position will help you attain your goals, and during the interview, discuss the aspects of the job posting that meet your career objectives and talk about the responsibilities that allow you to make the most of your skills.
5 – What Are Your Core Values?
Once again, you need to compare these with those of the company. Examples include the type of work culture you want to be involved in and the qualities you admire most in people you hold in high regard.
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How NOT to Answer: “Why Would You Like to Work for Us?”
Here are a few things you should definitely avoid saying:
- An emphasis on perks such as health insurance, better salary, and a company car. You don’t want the company to think you are motivated solely by a financial imperative.
- Any semblance of a personal conversation.
- A generic answer that could easily apply to half a dozen positions.
- An answer that lacks enthusiasm. Now is not the time to be calm, cool, and collected. Show your passion for the job!
“Why Do You Want to Work for Us?” – Best Answers
Here are three short, concise answers that should enable you to get to the heart of the matter.
“After reading the mission and vision of the company, and digging into its social media accounts, it is clear to me that the organisation’s goals are closely aligned with my own. I do my best work when engaged with individuals as part of a team project, and would love to have the opportunity to work here. I found three ways in which my goals meet yours, and they are… [Insert the relevant values]”
“I uncovered a fantastic article about your new CEO, Mark Duggan. In it, he spoke about the firm’s desire to invest in innovation to move forward. I see myself as an innovator also, and I believe I can thrive in a work environment where innovation is actively encouraged.”
“I read some fascinating pieces online about how St. Bart’s Oncology Ward in Dublin South was the first to focus on dealing with the issue of breakthrough pain experienced by its patients. In the last 10 years, I have worked with organisations dedicated to increasing public awareness, so I knew immediately that a position here would be ideal for me to help the hospital continue its good work.”
Answering “Why Do You Want to Work for Us?” – Retail
“The company is known for being one of the best retailers in Ireland with the highest online customer review rating in the nation. I also read that your partners regularly speak at national conferences where they point out the need for improved security for customers, both for online and in-store purchases. These are clear signs that the company is a leader, rather than a follower. With my background in cybersecurity, I believe I am a good fit when it comes to applying the new technology your company is implementing.
Answering “Why Do You Want to Work for Us?” – Customer Service
I love dealing with customers because I thoroughly enjoy interacting with people from all over the world. For me, no question is too trivial because if I can help, I feel as if I have achieved my goal. Dublin Motors has a significant international presence, especially in Frankfurt, and is continuing to expand its services overseas. I believe that my experience dealing with international customers, plus my fluency in German, will ensure I can help the business by doing something I enjoy.
You may believe that ‘Why Do You Want to Work for Us?’ is a simple question, and it seems like it on the surface. However, it is a multi-faceted query that requires a lot of research on the part of the applicant. It is no exaggeration to say that candidates have lost out because of an unsatisfactory answer to this interview question. Read these tips and sample answers, and don’t let it happen to you!