“Why should we hire you?”
It is usually the final question during an interview. Past experience and employment and the skills gained from those jobs are important. But if you want someone to hire you, you have got to let them know what distinguishes you from the rest and why you will be great in that particular job setting. And answering this question requires that you know yourself. What are you passionate about, and why will you work hard for this job? There are plenty of questions to consider before going into the interview. And here are some ways to go about answering this one.
Three angles to consider
There are three different angles that you should consider when answering this question: the interviewer, yourself, and the position.
- The interviewer. By answering this question you are giving your opinion and validating the opinion of the person interviewing you, letting them know in summary why you should get the job. The more detail you give to the interviewer, the stronger your answer will be.
- Yourself. This is one of the last opportunities you have to show them your personality and capabilities. Give direct examples of why you are most eligible for the job, and be positive in showing your interest in the position.
- The company and the position. Explain how your past job experience has prepared you for this position and this company. Compare the job description with your abilities, showing the interviewer you are highly eligible for this position.
Some Dos and Don’ts
- Do tell them specifically why your past experience has enabled you to do this job
- Do not say simply, “because I need the money.”
- Do not give them a simple answer such as “because I am a hard worker.” Anyone can say this—but how are you set apart?
- Do make a list of your most admirable traits as a worker before you go into the interview—this list will motivate you to give an in depth answer that will satisfy the interviewer
The question doesn’t have to be infamous. It can actually just be an exciting challenge that gives you an opportunity to show why you are even MORE eligible for the job. By giving a clear and thought out answer you won’t have to worry about missing this job opportunity.
