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Why Hiring Managers Ask "Why Should We Hire You?"
If you have made it to the interview stage of the hiring process, the hiring manager already has a hunch that you have the qualifications and experience to get the job done. What employers are looking for when they ask "Why should we hire you?" is how much you really know about the company and if you are a perfect fit for the role.
If a given selection of candidates all have the same experience and qualifications, employers tend to hire those who understand the culture of the company, solve problems, and ultimately will make their lives easier. So, find out what they need, and pitch yourself accordingly.
How To Answer "Why Should We Hire You?"
1. Make your answer unique and specific.
Don't respond with a generic answer that could be replicated by any candidate. Saying "I have the right qualifications and experience" will most likely not impress the hiring manager. Be specific about which of your skills and experiences will benefit the company.
2. Use the job posting as a guide.
Read the job posting carefully and pick out key requirements, like education or experience, that you can tie in with your answer. Find commonalities between your skills and those listed under the requirements section. The more specific your answer, the better.
3. Demonstrate that you will fit in with the team.
Employers are not just looking for someone who can do the job, they also want to ensure that you will fit in with the company culture and characteristics of the department. Use this opportunity to highlight personal and professional traits that will make you a great addition to the team.
4. Quantify your achievements.
Referencing your achievements and accomplishments is a great idea, especially if you can show numerical results. For example, if you were able to streamline a particular manufacturing process, mention that it led to a 20% increase in production rates.
5. Describe ways in which you will make their lives easier.
Before arriving for the interview, find out what goals the company is working towards and what issues they are facing. You can do this by searching their webpage, social media page, company letters, job postings, and online archives. Then find ways you can use your skills or experience to help them achieve these goals.
Tip for Addressing Your Strengths:
Make a list of your strengths that directly correspond to the job requirements, then structure your answer around these.
Examples Of The Best Answers:
Example 1:
Based on what you said today and the research I have done, you are looking to boost your online and social media presence to help you stand out from the competition. At my previous company, I was able to increase buyer activity by 32% by creating targeted social media advertising. I plan on bringing the same entrepreneurial spirit to your company and will be looking to share my best ideas with the team.
Explanation: This response uses numerical results to demonstrate the candidate's ability to perform key job responsibilities. It also indicates that the candidate understands the needs of the company and shows what they can bring to the table.
Example 2:
Your job listing states that you are looking for someone with excellent communication skills and a great deal of patience. In my time as a volunteer caregiver, I have learned the value of patience when working with the elderly. I have also recently attended a management course that focused on improving communication skills in the workplace.
Explanation: This response is great for candidates with limited industry experience. Instead of focusing on job-specific skills and qualifications, you can highlight life skills that would be beneficial in the workplace.
Example 3:
This is a good question. My experience with mobile application development and, in particular, intuitive design, makes me a good match for this position. In my most recent role, I was responsible for the development of an app that could identify user trends and alter its functions accordingly. I would love to bring my development skills and passion for intuitive design to this position.
Explanation: Employers want to know how you stand out from the pack. This response focuses on the qualities and achievements that will set you apart from the other candidates. It highlights certain skills that the other interviewees might not have.
Example 4:
In our discussions earlier today, we spoke about how my qualifications and skills meet all the requirements for the position. I feel that my familiarity with the industry and seven years of experience in logistics have prepared me to take on such an important role.
Explanation: If you have already had a lengthy discussion about your skills and qualifications, you can keep your answer short and sweet. Reiterate the point that you are fully qualified for the role and indicate your desire to join the team. This would also be a good time to ask the interviewer if there are any skills or qualifications that they would like to cover again.
Example 5:
You explained earlier that you are preferably looking for candidates with leadership skills. In my eight years as a departmental manager, I have managed teams of more than 40 people. During this time, I developed key managerial and motivational skills that contributed to my department meeting and exceeding sales targets for five years in a row. I would love to bring my skills and leadership abilities to your company.
Explanation: This response focuses on bonus skills that are not a core requirement for the role but would certainly set you apart from other candidates.
How to Answer: What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?