Job Interview Question: Why Should We Hire You?

Job Interview Question: Why Should We Hire You?
This is one of those broad questions that can take you down
the wrong road unless you have done some thinking about
what to say ahead of time. This question deals with your
ability to sell yourself. Think of yourself as the product.
Why should the customer buy?

Answers that WON'T WORK -

"Because I need a job." - This answer is about YOU - "they"
want to know what you can do for "them."

"I am a hard worker." - This is a really trite answer -
almost anyone can say he or she is a hard worker.

"I saw your ad and could do the job. - This answers lacks
passion and purpose.

STRONGER ANSWERS that would get the interviewer's attention
-

"Because I have three years experience working with
customers in a very similar environment."

"Because I have what it takes to fill the requirements of
this job - solve customer problems using my excellent
customer service skills."

"Because I have the experience and expertise in the area of
customer support that is required in this position."

This is a time to let the customer (the interviewer) know
what your product (YOU) can do for them and why they should
listen to what you have to offer. The more detail you give
the stronger your answer will be. This is not a time to
talk about what you want. It is a time to summarize your
accomplishments and relate what makes you unique and
therefore a viable fit for this position.

Product Inventory Exercise

Start by looking at the job description or posting. What is
the employer emphasizing as requirements of the job? What
will it take to get the job done? Make a list of those
requirements on one side of a piece of paper.

Next, do an inventory to determine what you have to offer
as a fit against those requirements. List your skills on
the other side of the paper. Think of two or three key
qualities you have to offer that match each requirement
that the employer is seeking. Don't underestimate personal
traits that make you unique - your energy, personality
type, working style, and people skills.

The Sales Pitch - You are the Solution

From the list of requirements and your matching list of
what you have to offer, merge the two into a summary
statement. This is your sales pitch. It should be no more
than two minutes long and should stress the traits that
make you unique and a good match for the job.

Example

"With my seven years of experience working with financial
databases, I have saved companies thousands of dollars by
streamlining systems. My high energy, and quick learning
style enable me to hit the ground running and rapidly size
up problems. I have the ability to stay focused in
stressful situations, and can be counted on when the going
gets tough. I know I would be a great addition to your
team."

Preparing this statement ahead of the interview will give
you the edge when asked questions like, "Why should we hire
you?" or "What can you bring to this position?" This will
be your chance to let the interviewers know that you are
the solution to their problem.

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Carole Martin, America's #1 Interview Coach is a
contributing writer for Monster.com Try her FREE practice
interview at http://www.interviewcoach.com