You’ve made an outstanding resume and cover letter. A recruitment specialist has shortlisted your application for an interview. Are you prepared to highlight your qualifications and have a solid answer to “why did you apply for this job”?
The interview process is a crucial step in recruitment, for the hiring company and you, the applicant. For the hiring company, it identifies how a candidate aligns with the company’s goals through targeted questions. For the applicant, it solidifies your position as a strong candidate and places you one step closer to getting an official offer. So knowing how to answer the interview questions is crucial to getting hired.
A Common Interview Question
One of the more common interview questions is “why did you apply for this job?” Some recruiters pose it in the beginning of the interview and others toward the end, capping off the strategic conversation. The expected question may be posed as “why are you interested in this position” or “why do you want this job.”
However which way it’s asked, the usual interview question will tell recruiters two things:
- That you’ve done your research about the position and what it involves, indicating you want the job (not just any job), and
- That you’re certain about where you want to take your career.
Most companies avoid candidates who go from job to job, staying in one company for under a year. Job hoppers pose different risks to businesses. They signify that an employee may be easily bored or that they’re a likely “flight” risk.
The bottom line is your answer to “why did you apply for this job” tells potential employers you care about the job and you’re invested in the future of your career. When you’re invested in your career, you’re likely to stay a long while in the company.
Tips to Answering “Why Did You Apply for This Job?”
Learn more about the position
Ideally, you’ll have researched the position before clicking the “apply” button. If not, you’ll want to go back to the job description and dig into the responsibilities, requirements, and “good-to-have” aspects of the job.
Does the job involve client-facing tasks? Will you be expected to mentor or train junior team members? Is the job’s primary focus development and production or strategy?
In learning more about the position, you’ll have a better understanding of the position. Enough to determine whether you’re a good fit for the role.
Learn about the company
Nothing is more disappointing to a recruitment specialist than to find out a candidate is clueless about the company with the open position. When you know next to nothing about the organization, you’re demonstrating your lack of interest; that you’re applying for any job.
Most open positions have hundreds of applicants, which means you’re competing in a sea of many qualified individuals. If your competitors have researched about the company and you failed to do it, your application may not move forward.
So learn more about the company; its mission, history, reputation, and even finances. As an informed and knowledgeable applicant, you edge out the competition.
Cover key points in your answer
Good interviewers typically pay attention to the structure of your answers. They want to know about your background while you tell them about your reason for applying. In replying to “why you’re interested in the position,” you provide insight to your career goals and how they align with the position. It further highlights what makes you a perfect fit for the job.
To nail your job interview, prepare a structure to your answer by covering all the key points. Be specific. Use terms covered in the job description and show alignment with your background.
End with a question
Finally, an answer that ends with a question turns the typical Q&A nature of interviews into a conversation. Other than giving further information about the job and the company, it also opens up a dialogue.
Sample Answers to “Why Do You Want This Job?”
You can write down your entire answer. You could simply have a note listing the bullet points of your answer. Whether you have a complete copy on hand, preparing for the job interview is a good step toward landing an offer.
Instead of just one “why do you want this job” sample answer, we give you five to consider.
Example 1: Extensive Experience Approach
“Why did I apply for this job? It perfectly aligns with my extensive experience in the field. Over the past [X] years, I have successfully [mention relevant achievements or projects]. It has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this industry. I am confident that my proven track record and expertise make me an ideal candidate for contributing to and advancing the goals of your organization. Could you tell me more about the team that I might be working in?”
Example 2: Technical Skills Match Approach
“The reason I’m excited about this opportunity is that the job requirements closely match my technical skills and expertise. In my previous roles, I’ve honed my proficiency in [specific technical skills mentioned in the job description]. Your company’s commitment to [mention any specific technology or process] aligns perfectly with my skill set. I’m eager to bring my knowledge to the team, helping to achieve your objectives and contributing to the innovative work that your organization is known for. Can you discuss more about growth opportunities for this role?”
Example 3: Honesty and Career Alignment Approach
“Although I may not have extensive experience in this exact role, I’m genuinely passionate about the work your company is doing, especially in the areas of [mention specific projects or initiatives]. I’m confident that my skills in [mention relevant skills] and my ability to quickly learn and adapt will allow me to make meaningful contributions to your team. I’m eager to be part of an organization that aligns with my long-term career goals, and I believe this role provides an excellent opportunity for professional growth and development. Are there any “job shadowing” opportunities available for this role?”
Example 4: Outlining Unique Skill Set Approach
“What attracted me to this position is the unique combination of skills it requires, which perfectly aligns with my background. My experience in [mention unique skills or experiences] has equipped me with a distinctive skill set that I believe will bring a fresh perspective to your team. I’m excited about the prospect of leveraging my unique strengths to contribute to the success of your projects and to collaborate with a team that values diverse skill sets. Could you talk to me about how performance may be measured for this role?”
Example 5: Company Culture and Values Approach
“Beyond the job description, what really drew me to this opportunity is your company’s commitment to [mention specific values or initiatives]. I’m not only impressed by your team’s accomplishments but also by the culture you’ve fostered. Having [mention any personal experience or observation] has convinced me that I want to be part of this dynamic environment. I’m confident that my skills and passion align perfectly with your company’s mission. And I’m eager to contribute to the continued success and growth of your team. What elements of the company culture do you like the best?”
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