"Why should we hire you?"
This question is commonly asked on application forms and interviews and to many candidates can seem quite daunting but the good news is that the interviewer has just given you the perfect opportunity to broadcast your skills and really sell yourself.
Why do employers ask this question?
When an interviewer asks you this question what they are really asking you is why are you the best candidate and why they should hire you instead of the equally as qualified candidate they had in there 10 minutes ago. They have seen your CV, you need to show them that you know what they want for this position and that you are able to provide it. They want to know whether you will be a good fit within their company and whether you are the best possible candidate.
How to answer this question
There are a couple of main points you want to be hitting with this question. Research and a good understanding of the job role and the company is key.
Reiterate your top 3 selling points that are integral to this role
Get familiar with the job description and what the employers top priorities for this role are. Make sure you state the skills or traits that you possess that make you capable of an outstanding performance in this role.
Highlight that you will be a great fit for their team
Identify the company or departments culture and include personal and/or professional traits that demonstrate how you will fit in.
Express how hiring you will help them grow and achieve
Research the company’s problems or goals. This should include the company’s history and roadmap so you have a good idea of where they have come from and where they are headed and how you will fit into that journey and help them progress.
Explain what makes you different from any other candidate
Do you have any specific key accomplishments or experience that sets you apart from the rest?
As always in interviews, you should always be honest and your answers should not seem memorised and regurgitated. You should plan your answer and practice giving it until you are comfortable.
Another advantage of preparing for a question like this that even if this one doesn’t come up, the information you prepare for this is applicable to other commonly asked questions. Such questions include “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your strengths?”. Whilst the nuances of these questions are slightly different, a lot of the same points can apply.
You can check out some more of our Interview Advice blog posts on our website! Maybe try “How to beat the nerves in a job interview” and a how to on answering the question “Why do you want to work here?”!
Good Luck!