Interview Question: “Why Should We Hire You?”

Employers ask many different questions during an interview. Because they only have a short window to assess whether or not you might be a good fit for the role, they want to understand a few key things at the end of your interview. Those things include whether you are a good culture fit for the company, if you can be successful in the role and how you might contribute to their short and long-term business goals. How to answer, “Why should we hire you?” Employers might ask this question to learn a few different things about you. First, they want to know what differentiates you from other candidates they might be interviewing. In other words, what would they gain by hiring you specifically over other interviewees? They might also ask this question to see how you handle difficult situations because it can be challenging to explain why you’re the best person for a job in a humble, thoughtful way. Take a few moments before your interview to plan an answer for this question. While preparing, you might consider the following steps to craft a response: Study the job posting. To understand the specific skills, qualities and experience employers are looking for in an ideal candidate, review the job posting. Pay special attention to the job description and key sections like “Requirements,” “Experience” and “Education.” Find commonalities between what the employer is looking for and the skills, experiences and qualities you have to offer. Research the company. Spending time studying the company’s mission, goals and recent announcements can help you to answer this question. You should use this information to explain how you are connected to their values and how you might help them accomplish key business goals. Tie your background to the job posting. Explain how your experience, skills and attributes make you the best fit for the job as it pertains to the company and position for which you’re applying. You should address each of the requirements listed in the job posting as well as any additional qualities that make you a great fit. Quantify your accomplishments. When possible, support your accomplishments with numerical results. For example, if you’re applying for a job as an accountant at a company that is looking for someone to streamline processes, you might explain that at your previous company, you implemented a new process for expense accounts that reduced reimbursement time by 25 percent. Go above and beyond. Think of any relevant qualities or experiences that set you apart from other candidates. For example, if you held a previous professional or volunteer position that gives you a unique perspective beneficial to the job you’re applying for, that might be something that distinguishes you.