Why Should We Hire You?

The popular interview question, “Why should we hire you?” may sound similar to “Why do you want to work here?” However, it requires a shift in focus. Instead of centering on your personal goals or what you hope to gain, it’s about addressing the needs and priorities of the employer. In other words, it’s less about what benefits you and more about how you benefit them.

This question has several layers of intent. When hiring managers ask it, they’re looking to:

• Gauge your understanding of their mission or objectives
• Envision specific ways you could contribute to their goals
• Evaluate how well you’d align with their company culture
• Identify any standout qualities that make you a unique candidate

Hiring managers may phrase this question in different ways, like “What makes you a good fit for this role?” or “Why should we hire you over other candidates?” Regardless of the phrasing, it’s a fair question, as recruitment is about finding a “perfect match” for both parties. By understanding the question’s intent and following some simple guidelines, you can craft a response that leaves a strong impression.

Preparing for “Why Should We Hire You?”

To effectively answer this question, approach it as a way to position yourself as the solution to the company’s needs. Start by carefully reviewing the job description. Focus on required skills and qualifications, then list your skills that match these essentials.

Next, explore the company’s “About Us” page and recent reports to understand their mission and values. Identify any overlaps or mismatches with your own values and adjust your answer accordingly.

Finally, practice your response out loud. This builds confidence and fluency, helping you deliver a compelling answer on the day of the interview.

In today’s highly competitive job market, excelling in interviews is just the beginning. To truly stand out and secure a job offer, you need to master the art of closing the deal. This isn’t about pressuring the hiring manager but rather about strategically positioning yourself as the ideal candidate throughout the hiring process.

1. Identify the Pain Points

Treat each interview as a consulting opportunity rather than a sales pitch. Your goal is to understand the company’s challenges and present yourself as the solution. Start by thoroughly researching the company and the hiring manager before the interview. During the conversation, focus on asking insightful questions to uncover why the position is open and what specific problems the company is facing. Understanding these pain points allows you to tailor your responses to show how your skills and experience can address their needs.

2. Build a Connection

Creating a strong connection with the hiring manager is crucial. Likeability can often outweigh mere competence when hiring decisions are made. Engage in friendly conversation, share your interests and hobbies, and demonstrate that you’ll be a good cultural fit. People respond positively to candidates who come across as personable and relatable, so make sure to showcase your personality and build rapport throughout the interview.

3. Use Assumptive Closing

Assumptive closing is a technique where you proceed with the belief that you’re the right candidate for the role, based on the positive signals you’re receiving. Watch for verbal and non-verbal cues from the hiring manager that indicate interest, such as questions about your availability or salary expectations. When you notice these signals, shift the conversation towards discussing the specifics of how you’ll succeed in the role and what resources or support you might need. This approach helps transition the conversation from “if” to “when” you’ll be hired, setting the stage for a successful offer.

4. Uncover and Address Hidden Concerns

During the interview process, it’s important to uncover and address any potential objections or concerns the hiring manager might have. At the end of the interview, ask questions like, “Have I addressed all your concerns?” or “Is there anything else you’re worried about regarding my fit for this role?” This proactive approach allows you to address any reservations and reinforces your suitability for the position.

5. Ask for the Job

Finally, don’t hesitate to directly express your interest in the role and ask for the job. This might feel bold, but it’s a crucial step in closing the deal. Let the hiring manager know how enthusiastic you are about the opportunity and reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the position. Many hiring managers appreciate candidates who show confidence and a clear desire to contribute to their team.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll enhance your ability to convert interviews into job offers and stand out as a top contender in today’s competitive job market.