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When preparing for an interview, it’s important to be ready to answer the question, “Why do you want to work here?” This seemingly simple question is actually quite significant, as it provides insight into your motivations, values, and alignment with the company’s mission and culture.
Don’t dismiss this as a trick question – take the time to research the company and understand its values, goals, and accomplishments. Your answer should demonstrate how you can contribute to the company’s success and growth, while also aligning with your own career aspirations.
Answering the question “Why do you want to work here?” can be a challenge for many job seekers. However, it’s an opportunity to show your enthusiasm and passion for the role and the company.
The interviewer wants to hear a genuine and well-informed response that demonstrates your alignment with the company’s values, goals and culture. Common mistakes include focusing on personal benefits or being too generic in your response. Proper preparation and research on the company and the role can help you craft a compelling answer.
What Is the Interviewer Really Asking? (All Details)
The interviewer is asking for more than just a generic answer, they want to understand your motivation and how you can contribute to the company’s success. They want to know how you align with the company culture, values, and mission. Your answer should demonstrate your research about the company and the job, as well as your passion, skills, and experience. It’s an opportunity to showcase your fit for the role and convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate for the job.
Some potential subheadings for this topic could include:
- Highlighting Your Fit for the Role
- Expressing Your Motivation for Applying
- Demonstrating Your Cultural Compatibility
- Showing Your Understanding of the Company’s Goals
- Conveying Your Long-Term Interest in the Company
When answering the question “Why do you want to work here?” in a job interview, it’s important to structure your response into two parts: why you want the particular job and why you want to work for that specific company. Here are some tips for each part:
Why do you want this particular job?
- Show how your skills and experience match the job requirements
- Highlight what you can bring to the role and the company
- Demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for the job
Why do you want to work at this particular company?
- Research the company’s culture, values, and mission statement
- Mention the company’s achievements and successes
- Show how your own goals align with the company’s goals
- Explain how you can contribute to the company’s growth and success
By addressing these two parts, you can create a compelling answer that shows the interviewer why you are the ideal candidate for the job and how you can help the company achieve its goals.
Before delving into the questions, let’s take a moment to examine sample responses provided by job experts. Afterward, we will proceed to break down these questions.
Below are some sample template answers to the question, “Why do you want to work here?”
Remember to divide your answer into two parts, and keep the key points in mind. Use these examples as a guide to create your own unique response.
Sample Answer 1: Inspiration and Self-Taught Learning
I have been following this company for a while, admiring your work and staying up-to-date with industry changes. Your innovative approach has inspired me and kept me motivated in my own self-taught learning. When I saw the job opening, I knew that this was the perfect opportunity for me to join a team that values hard work and innovation.
I believe that I would fit in well with the company culture and be able to contribute to the team with my own unique style. Working here would be a dream come true, and the culmination of my years of self-taught learning and admiration for this company.
Sample Answer 2:
My greatest interest lies in offering customers an unforgettable service, one that leaves a lasting impression on them and encourages them to return. This store, renowned for its exceptional customer service, aligns with my personal values and would be a fulfilling work environment. My dedication to providing quality service and ensuring customer satisfaction makes me a strong candidate for this position.
Sample Answer 3:
I am drawn to your company’s commitment to providing growth opportunities for individuals, regardless of their formal qualifications. As someone who has worked hard to gain knowledge and skills, I believe I can thrive in such a nurturing environment. I am excited about the prospect of contributing my unique perspective and skills to the team while also developing my potential further.
Sample Answer 4:
As a doctor with experience in a hospital setting, I am looking for a new challenge. Transitioning to general practice will provide me with a diverse range of patients while allowing me to continue delivering the high level of care I am committed to providing. I am particularly drawn to your practice due to its reputation for patient satisfaction and believe that I can make a valuable contribution to the team.
Sample Answer 5:
Throughout my career, I have prioritized learning from those with more experience and expertise. As I look to take the next step, I am drawn to your company’s reputation for developing and supporting individuals to reach their full potential. The scope of your marketing initiatives is larger than any I have tackled before, making it the logical next step for me. I am eager to contribute my skills and collaborate with a team of talented professionals to achieve our goals.
Sample Answer 6:
As a teenager, I taught myself how to provide care for my sick dog when my family couldn’t afford veterinary visits. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and to provide affordable and free care to those in need. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and passion to your shelter’s mission of providing compassionate care to animals in need.
Sample Answer 7:
My love for math has inspired me to pursue a career as an accountant. I am excited about the opportunity to use my skills and knowledge to help others, and I believe that your company is the perfect place for me to do that. As a junior accountant, I am looking forward to learning from experienced professionals and contributing to the success of the team.
Sample Answer 8:
As a recent graduate in medical biochemistry, I am excited about the opportunity to work in medical advertising and marketing with a company that has a strong reputation like [company]. I believe that my knowledge of the medical industry and principles of ethics, combined with my natural sociability and passion for client relationships, make me an ideal candidate for the Media Sales Assistant position. I look forward to contributing to the growth of [company] while developing my skills in this dynamic industry.
Sample Answer 9:
My passion for teaching, combined with my experience in Vietnam, has given me a unique perspective on the importance of inclusive education. I believe that I would thrive in this environment and would be able to make a real difference in the lives of my students. I am excited about the prospect of joining your team and contributing to the ongoing success of the school.
Sample Answer 10:
I am excited about the prospect of joining your team and contributing my skills to help grow your business. I am confident that I can bring fresh ideas and creative solutions to your E-commerce marketing efforts, and I am eager to learn from the experienced professionals on your team. I believe this role will be the perfect opportunity for me to develop my skills and build a successful career in digital marketing.
