So why you want this job?

It is a common and important interview question, so it is good idea to prepare your answer ahead of time.

The Balance, a career advice website, based in the United States, says that when answering this question, you should show that you have researched the company and prove that you are a good fit for the job.

So let’s take a closer look at the advice and some sample answers.  Remember to tailor the answers to your situation.

Some advice

• Research the company ahead of time

  Interviewers will listen for a response that shows you’ve done research on the company. Make sure you know some basic information about the company and job. You might want to read some recent articles on the company to get a sense of their current goals and projects. Also be sure to reread the job posting. This way, when you answer the question, you can mention specific aspects of the company and position that appeal to you.

• Be specific about why you are a good fit

  Be specific about what makes you a good fit for this job.  To prepare your answer, make a list of the requirements of the job (as explained in the job listing), and then note which requirements fit your skills and experience. In your answer, highlight a few of your abilities that qualify you for the job.

• Emphasise what you can contribute

  Your answer should also emphasise what you can contribute—what will you bring to the position? Mention any skills or work experience that makes you a unique, strong candidate for the job. If possible, use numbers to express how you can add value to the company.

• Avoid reasons that focus on you

  Even if it’s true, do not mention salary, hours or commute as the primary reasons you want the job. Remember that you want to focus on how you can benefit the company, not how the company or job can benefit you.

Best answers for the question

• I want this job because it emphasises sales and marketing, two of my greatest skill sets. In my previous job, I increased sales by 15% in what was at the time considered a flat industry.
• I understand that this is a company on the rise. As I’ve read on your website and in various press releases, you are planning to launch several new products in the coming months. I want be a part of this business as it grows, and I know my experience in product development would help your company as you roll out these products.
• I have worked as a dental hygienist in a children’s dental office for the past six years. Not only am I experienced working with this population, but also I enjoy it. Being able to work for your office, which caters to children and young adults, would allow me to continue to put my skills to use with people I love. This is the kind of work environment I would look forward to coming to every day.
• This job is a good fit for what I’ve been doing and enjoying throughout my career. It offers a mix of short-term projects and long-term goals. My organisational skills allow me to successfully multitask and complete both kinds of projects.
• I want this retail job at your store because I know I would be terrific at it. I love engaging with people and providing them with assistance. I also have two years of experience working cash registers at other stores. I am a regular customer of this store, so I would love to apply my skills to a store I believe in and support.
• I have admired this company’s successful strategies and mission for years. Your emphasis on creating a relationship between your company and the surrounding community have brought you success everywhere you have opened an office. There are values I greatly admire.

For advice and guidelines towards the career of your dreams, you can find our employment series articles in our careers section.