A most common but challenging question hiring managers ask during an interview is, "Why do you want to work here?" You might get a job rejection email if you can't answer such questions.
To prepare for this challenging situation, we have provided an answer to this question that will help you to pass the interview.
Don't get confused if this question is asked in different ways, i.e.,
- Why do you want to work here?
- Why do you want to join our company?
- Why do you want this job?
So be prepared for the interview, and it would be good to ask yourself this question: "Why do I want this job?"
In this article, we will discuss
- Why do interviewers ask this question
- Answers you should Avoid
- What Answers You Should Give
Why do Interviewers Ask This Question
You might get confused by the employer while answering such a question during an interview. The hiring manager is indeed trying to find out a few essential things. Here's what they are trying to figure out when they ask this question:
Conducted Sufficient Research:
Take some time to familiarize yourself with the company before applying for a new position. This involves monitoring their online presence, visiting their website, and seeing what the press has written about them. The interviewer is trying to find out if you completed this task.
Do you find this particular job attractive?
Hiring managers also want a feeling of uniqueness. It will be evident in your response if you are interested in this job. The interviewer is looking to find out what aspects of the position drew you in, why you clicked the "apply now" button, and how committed you will be if you get the job.
How well does the culture of the organization fit you?
Company culture is not only a trendy term. The hiring manager wants to know if you are qualified for this specific position at the company. When asked, "Why do you want to work here?" be careful about describing how your professional goals match the company's mission.
Answers You Should Give:
Here are the answers you should give to that question, which will positively impact the employers.
- I know your company, and it's fantastic.
- I think I can have a positive influence here.
- The company objectives align with my goals.
- I read about the company's environment, and that is fantastic.
- I admire the company's ethics of cooperation as well as its work ethic.
I have been aware of your company, and it's fantastic:
Keep your focus on the company objective and how it has captured your attention instead of showing your interest.
It will appear as though you just walked in seeking any company that will hire you if you can't show that you know anything about the company or that you have specific reasons for loving and admiring it.
It's necessary to show your interest, research the company, and mention specific reasons to employers why you love the company culture and why you want to join it. If you do not have a strong reason behind this question, the employer may lose attention in your application.
You should know everything about the company through Google research and social media. Explore the company website, its business model, projects, and its competitiveness in the market. In an interview, you will have a knowledgeable answer about the company's mission and why you want to join.
I think I can have a positive influence here:
Beyond just becoming familiar with the company, try to identify the particular issues and competitive challenges it faces. You can persuade them that you possess the knowledge and abilities necessary to help in resolving these issues.
Your response will suggest that you want to work here and make a big difference. Your skills will make the company stronger, better, and more profitable.
The company objectives align with my goals:
If the company has objectives and mission, then you should study them carefully and tell the employer how the company's mission aligns with your goals.
Strong ideas like beliefs, values, and a feeling of mission may elevate a company above its everyday goal of maximizing profits for the employer and any prospective new hire.
Highlight your personal goal and emphasize how much you support the company's commitment to diversity in employment, environmental sustainability, community assistance, and ethical business practices.
I read about the company's environment, which is fantastic:
The company's environment reflects all of its priorities and values. Of course, it would be inappropriate to tell an interviewer that you want to work for the company because it gives free soft drinks.
Sharing your interest in the company's work culture and environment will positively impact employers.
I admire the company's ethics of cooperation as well as its work ethic:
Tell the employer that you are seeking a sense of belonging, a team to work with, and a community where each member brings out the best in each other.
It would help if you told the employer that you like the work ethics of their company and how they work cooperatively.
The above answers will show:
- You are focused on the company instead of your personal needs.
- You want to have a positive and effective impact on the employer.
- The company's mission and vision align with your goals.
- You aspire to join a victorious team.
- You value an organization that cares about its employees.
Answers You Should Avoid:
Here are the terrible answers you should avoid to the question, "Why do you want to work here?". If you give such answers, then your chances of employment will be lowered.
- I was in serious need of the money.
- I need a job right now.
- This position is an excellent starting point
- Let's analyze the above negative answers.
I really need money:
If you say to the employer that you need the money, then it will leave a negative impact on him, and he will think that you are applying only for personal interest, not because you are a good fit for this role and vice versa.
Giving such a reason may show that you are just looking for a job for a short duration rather than long-term commitments with the company. So, instead of showing interest, share some reasons that meet the company's expectations and needs.
I need a job right now:
This response suggests that you don't care which job you apply for, assuming it would provide you with immediate financial support. Many employers will think you will carry that attitude into your work.
The company's hiring decisions are not made for compassion or sympathy. Companies want to hire someone who can be productive and have good problem-solving skills.
This position is an excellent starting point:
Companies mostly ignore the job applications of the candidates looking for temporary roles. When employees get some experience, they will likely switch jobs immediately to other organizations.
However, hiring, onboarding, and training are challenging, expensive, and time-consuming. The company needs such a person or employees who will work for a long term.
Remember that companies always seek new hires who can increase their productivity and competitiveness, ultimately boosting their profits.
FAQs
Q1: How do you answer "Why did you choose this job?
When answering this question, focus on specific aspects of the job that appeal to you. Show enthusiasm and knowledge about the company and its values.
Q2: What if my primary motivation is being out of work?
Avoid mentioning your unemployment as your primary motivation. Instead, discuss the positive aspects of the company and its role. Highlight how it matches your skills and career goals, and express your excitement about the opportunities it presents to learn and grow.
Q3: How do you answer "Why do you want to work here?" without experience?
Express your eagerness to learn and grow within the company. Talk about the company's mission, culture, and values that resonate with your interests. Mention how the role aligns with your long-term career ambitions.
Q4: What if they ask, "What can you bring to the company?"
Describe your unique skills and experiences that directly benefit the company. Share accomplishments demonstrating your ability to add value to the company in the new role.
