Interview Question: Why Do You Want To Work Here?
Are you tired of job interviews that seem to go nowhere? Do you struggle to answer the common question, "Why do you want to work here?" Although a simple question, If you mess it up, it will derail your chances of landing the job.
This article discusses why this question is so crucial, what NOT to say, and how to answer “Why do you want to work here?” in a way that showcases your strengths. With these tips up your sleeve, you'll be ready to tackle any interview like a pro.
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Why might you be asked, "Why do you want to work here?"
This question is something you'll often hear during a job interview, as employers want to determine your interest and alignment with the company. They want to know if you've done your research and if you understand their mission, values, and goals.
The question also sets the tone for the conversation and helps determine your seriousness about the opportunity. Employers want to ensure that new hires are a good fit for the position and will contribute positively to their team, which is why it's crucial to prepare a solid response that demonstrates your knowledge of the company and highlights why you'd be an asset to their organisation.
Examples of how not to answer
It is important to respond thoughtfully when asked, "Why do you want to work here?" So it's crucial to avoid mentioning only salary or benefits as this can be seen as a poor response. To help guide you, here are four examples of how not to answer this question.
- 'I just need a job right now.'
This response shows that you're not interested in the company but just looking for any job to pay the bills.
- 'I don't really know much about your company, but I'm willing to learn.'
This response demonstrates a lack of preparation and interest in the company itself.
- 'Honestly, I'm just trying to get away from my current job/boss/coworkers.'
This response displays a negative attitude towards your current situation and may make the interviewer wonder if you'll have similar issues with their company.
- 'I heard this position pays well.'
This response emphasises money over passion for the role or company.
Avoiding these types of responses is key. Instead, focus on showcasing your knowledge and alignment with the company and position.
How to better respond to "why do you want to work here?"
It's essential to do some research before your interview and then choose an appropriate approach based on this research. Doing so can demonstrate a strong alignment with the company and the role you're applying for, which is crucial to making a positive impression during the interview process.
There are four different approaches to choose from when deciding on an answer, which we discuss further.
Research the company and role you've applied for
Before your interview, research the company thoroughly to demonstrate a genuine interest in working there. This will show the interviewer that you're serious about the opportunity and have taken the time to understand what the company does, its values, and how your skills align with their needs.
Here are some tips on how to research a company effectively:
- Visit their website and read about their mission statement, products/services, and recent news or press releases.
- Look up the company on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to understand its culture and community involvement.
- Contact current or former company employees through networking sites like LinkedIn to gain insider knowledge.
- Check out review sites and see what former employees have to say about the company.
Sites Where You Can Find Company Reviews by Employees →
Choose an approach based on your research
By discovering what the company values and stands for, you can craft an answer that showcases your alignment with its mission and sparks a genuine connection with the interviewer. Take some time to research the organisation's history, current projects, and future goals.
Are there specific responsibilities that excite you? Do you have a personal passion for their product or service? Or do you see the potential for success in this role? Use one or any combination of these approaches but keep your answer concise.
Here are the four different approaches you can choose from:
1. Showcase your skills and experience
Showcasing your skills and experience in the interview can make the hiring manager see you as a perfect fit for the role, picturing the great results you'll bring to their team.
Start by identifying specific skills and experiences that relate to the position you're applying for. Highlight how these skills have helped you succeed in past roles and how they'll translate into success within this new opportunity.
Connect your skills and experiences to the company's mission and goals, demonstrating your understanding of what they do and why it matters.
This not only showcases your abilities but also shows that you've done your research on the company and understand how they operate. Doing this demonstrates that you're invested in their success, which every employer wants in a candidate.
Example answers
- I am confident in my ability to excel in this position as I have a proven track record of similar achievements and a deep understanding of how to captivate this audience.
- I thrive in collaborative environments and eagerly anticipate working closely with multiple departments to align our objectives and accomplish our shared goals.
- After gaining a comprehensive understanding of this role, I am confident I can provide valuable insights and expertise to enhance project management, enabling greater efficiency and effectiveness."
2. Express your interest and knowledge of the company's product or service
Demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of the company's product or service by discussing how it aligns with your personal values and goals.
Expressing interest and knowledge in what the company does can show that you've done your research and that you genuinely understand what they do. For example, if the company sells food and your research shows that the food is sustainably harvested, you could talk about how committed to sustainability you are and how much their mission resonates with your own values and can show why working for them would be meaningful to you beyond just having a job.
You could also discuss your love for cooking/gardening/composting etc. This shows that not only do you know what the company does, but you're also personally invested in its mission.
Additionally, expressing interest in the company's product or service can demonstrate that you're excited to work there because of what they offer. If the company provides an affordable service of some kind, for instance, mentioning how it's important to you that everyone has access to affordable (name of service) shows it resonates with you more than just on a professional level.
Example answers
- I have passionately supported X for many years due to my unwavering belief that everyone deserves affordable Y.
- I believe that sustainably harvested ingredients are the way to go. So much so that I myself am an avid gardener.
- I am truly driven by my passion for X, and it would be an absolute delight to contribute my skills and dedication to an organisation that wholeheartedly embraces these fundamental values…
3. Let them know why you would enjoy working there
Establishing a strong connection between job satisfaction and the specific role you are applying for is crucial when answering the question, "Why do you want to work here?" Simply stating that you enjoy what you do may not be sufficient to leave a lasting impression.
To make a significant impact, you should express why you are passionate about the industry or how working in that position will bring genuine happiness.
This approach will undoubtedly leave a memorable impression on the interviewer and increase your chances of being selected for the job.
Example answers
- Writing has always been my passion since I could hold a pencil, so working in a role/for a company that expresses the same passion is extremely exciting.
- I have a natural affinity for people, and I thrive being around an energetic team, which is why I know working for [company name] will not only bring me fulfilment but also allow me to succeed.
- With a deep passion for [product or service] that has spanned several years, I'm very excited to see the intricate workings behind its excellence.
4. You can also combine all three approaches
Combining personal passion, enjoyment of the role, and potential for success can create a compelling answer and deliver an impactful response.
Example answer
I have been following your company's journey for a while now, and I'm genuinely impressed with your passion for helping other businesses sell their products through compelling copy. Your dedication to creating effective marketing strategies that speak to the target audience is incredibly inspiring.
With over five years of experience in copywriting, my skills and expertise can greatly contribute to your company's success. Throughout my career, I have worked with various businesses from different industries, allowing me to develop diverse skills that can be applied to any product or service.
What excites me the most about this opportunity is the potential to be a part of a team dedicated to making a difference in the marketing world. I am excited to work with like-minded individuals passionate about creating meaningful connections with the target audience and driving results for businesses.
Don't forget to always check company reviews on Joberty about company's Product and tech stack, team, culture, salary they offer for your position, interview process and purpose.
