It’s an easy question, but many candidates have a tough time getting it right. If someone asks, why do you want to work here? Or why should I hire you? Your first response might be, I need a job, or I want the money, or I need to find a new job. Those may be true, but they do not really explain your interest in their position.
If an employer asks you this question, they are trying to find out if you have seriously considered the opportunity and if you have a good reason for why you decided to apply for it. Fortunately you do not need a fancy speech. A good response will mention what interests you about the company, the role and how this opportunity aligns with your career plan.
Here are three sample answers to the interview question: why do you want to work here? What interviewers want to hear, plus three samples you can adapt for your next interview.
Why Do Interviewers Ask, “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”
It is a process. Employers will look at applications, interview, verify credentials, and compare applicants before making a final choice. They are seeking someone who appreciates the opportunity and who is truly interested in becoming part of the business.
When interviewers ask you why you want to work for this company, they are generally trying to learn.
- Research the company. They would like to know if you have done any research on the organization, are you familiar with what they do, what they stand for and what makes them special?
- Are you interested in the job itself? Admiring the reputation of a company is one thing. Having an interest in the duties of the position is quite another.
- Are your goals a good fit? Employers are eager to learn how this role relates to your background, interests, and career goals.
- What could you bring? This is your opportunity to share how you could be a benefit for the team.
There is no need for your answer to persuade the interviewer that this is your dream position and you will remain with the company for the rest of your life. This interview question is really about understanding your career priorities and is used to assess whether you are the right fit for the position.
3 Things to Include in Your Answer to “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”
3 great points you can make in a strong answer here. Prepare these before your interview so you do not have to make this one up on the spot.
1. Explain Why You Were Interested in Applying.
Tell the interviewer why this position truly interested you.
You might have been following the company for a while, admire what they do or have been waiting for a role to come up that is a good fit for you. If you have previously wanted to work there, show how the role advertised was a perfect fit.
For example:
“I’ve been interested in your organization for a while now due to the work that you are doing in the industry. When I came across this position opening I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to use my experience and take the next step in my career.”
I think I can make this sound more credible than ‘I just sent in my application because the position was vacant’.
Just be honest. Even if you just found the company while looking for a job, you can provide a solid answer by sharing what you learned and were excited by.
2. Show That You Have Researched the Company
This is one of the most crucial parts of your reply.
Understand about the organization before you have the interview, take time to research the organization’s website, read their mission statement, examine their products or services and learn about what they have accomplished.
Specify details about:
- Company culture and workplace culture.
- Its mission and future plans.
- Honours or accolades within the industry.
- Pricing the value and reputation of their services/products.
- Development and training for employees.
- Highlights of recent projects, progress, and achievements in the business.
You do not have to cover everything you have learned. Focus on one or two things that you found mostly interesting and tell that.
For instance, if the company is reputed for training their staff, you might say that you like to work in an environment where individuals are given the opportunity to develop their skills.
Describe why you liked its products or services and how it is high quality.
Do not make broad statements like, “You’re a great company ” without expanding on what makes you believe so. Specific information shows you have done your homework.
3. Explain How You See Yourself Growing With the Company.
The response should also provide the interviewer with some insight into your career plans.
Is this job relevant to your career plans? Mention that the position is relevant to your career plan and if you think that the organization is a place where you can improve your skills.
For example:
“I want a role where I can apply the experience I already have, develop further, and move into greater responsibility over time. From what I know about your company, I think this role offers the perfect environment.”
Shows real engagement but doesn’t make false assurance as to how long you plan to remain.
3 Strong Answers to “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”
While it is good to know the three main points, sometimes it is even better to see them and how they connect.
Here are three different ways to do that, according to the company and role.
Sample Answer 1: Emphasize the Values and Culture of the Company.
Interviewer: Why do you want to work here?
Candidate: “I wish to join this organization as when I was researching on this organization I have learned about the organization values, your future plan and also the importance you give to the employee advancement. I also hear good things about this organization and the people working here.”
I think I would be a good fit for your team based on my skill set, work ethic and team oriented attitude. I am hoping to work for a great company where I can make a contribution, learn, and build a career and I think this position offers that.”
Why this answer works: the answer demonstrates the candidate has done their research into the company and appreciates the significance of culture. It links the candidate’s personal qualities to what the company values.
Sample Answer 2: Emphasize On Career Advancement and Learning Opportunities.
Interviewer: Why would you like to work for our company? .
Candidate: “Hold what you want to work here because I want to use my experience as well as to increase my knowledge. When I saw this place I really wanted and I really want to join this company as their name is very popular among all industries and I think they are upgrading their company very well.
I enjoy working with motivated people, those willing to learn and do their job well and this position would enable me to bring my experience to the company, take on new challenges and have a career with the company for a number of years to come.”
How to nail this response: this reveals the motivation to climb the career ladder without implying that the role is a hopping off point. It also reveals a lot about the candidate.
Example Answer 3: Focus on Company Reputation and Quality
Interviewer: Why do you want to work for us?
Candidate: I want to work here because I know your product and service and I’ve known you have all kinds of quality products and services to offer. And so I also got a pretty good knowledge of your company and how far you go in the industry.
I enjoy working for a company that is proud of what it does and drives everyone to do their best. I think my ability to pay close attention to detail, my eagerness to learn and my strong work ethic would make me a great addition to your team.”
Why this is an effective answer: The applicant offers a concrete answer as to why they are attracted to this company and demonstrates how their standards reflect the company’s values.
All three of these examples can be great, but the best option will vary based on the type of employer and position. Do not recite them word for word. Instead, use the method that most truly captures your intention for applying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Answering This Question
Even the most qualified applicants can undermine their response through delving at the wrong moment. Avoid making any of these errors.
Telling yourself you just want a job.
You do need a job, but why did you come to this organization? Tell the interviewer something more than, because the job was open.
Speaking solely about salary and perks.
Compensation is important, and it isn’t wrong to think about it when determining whether or not to take a role. But that shouldn’t be the sole item that you highlight.
Providing an answer that is not specific.
“I want to work here because you are a successful company” is what you would say to hundreds of potential employers. Quote something specific that appealed to you.
Rehashing the corporate goal statement.
Research is necessary; but spewing back information just won’t show real interest. Why is this company’s value or achievement such a big deal to you?
Making promises that you cannot fulfill.
Mention your potential willingness to be committed for many years to come when it comes to your employment and career growth.
Giving an answer that’s too long.
You do not have to give the whole history of your career. Prepare an answer that lasts about 45 to 90 seconds and then give the interviewer room to ask follow up questions.
Prepare Your Answer Before the Interview
On the next occasion the interviewer asks, “Why do you wish to work here?” Don’t have an answer prepared on the spot. Reflect on what drew you towards the company, explore their projects and observe what the job has to offer you.
Note the 3 main points: tell them why you want to use it, demonstrate you know the organization and tell them how you wish to develop while helping their business.
If you haven’t found that job just yet, a temp agency Washington might be the very thing you need to help you find out what jobs are out there. At NRI Staffing, we connect job seekers with temp, temp to hire, and direct hire jobs in many careers.
Also, you can review our Staffing Services in Washington to discover what kinds of staffing jobs and placements we have available in the Washington DC metropolitan area.
A small amount of preparation will have a great impact on your presentation. Provide the interviewer with a real reason to think that you really want this position, and be sure your response demonstrates what you can contribute.
FAQs
What is a good answer for why do you want to work here?
An appropriate response might be that you are intrigued by the organization and want to learn more, believe you would be a great fit for the role, and that it seems like a good next step in your career. Mention something specific you’ve learned about the company to avoid sounding like everyone else.
Why do you want to work for this company rather than another one?
Tell us why this organization is appealing to you. This could include the organization’s reputation, its culture, its products or services, its mission or values, or the opportunity for professional growth. Tie that reason to something you truly value in your work life.
Interview questions: why do you want to work for us if you have no experience?
Highlight what you’re interested in about the company, your enthusiasm for learning and the skills you already possess that would transfer to the new role. These could be communication, team work organisation, problem solving, etc. or success points from your education.
What should I say if I don’t know much about the company?
Make sure you research before the interview. Check out the company’s website, understand what they do and read through the role. At least have one real reason why you are interested in the opportunity, not what you think the interviewer wants to hear.
How long should your answer be?
Usually, 45 to 90 seconds should suffice. State your point, provide the reasons behind it, and relate how you can assist. You don’t have to go into a long ramble.
