How You Should Answer: “Why Do You Want to Work Here?” During Interviews
A common question you’ll be asked in virtually any job interview is: Why do you want to work here? Preparing to answer this question is essential, as it could be what makes or breaks you receiving a job offer from your prospective employer.
And if there was a time when a recruiter or hiring manager considered not asking this question, that time has passed. With the recent Great Resignation and so many voluntarily leaving their jobs, employers want to know that you want to work for their organization for the right reasons — they want to know that candidates want to be with their organization for the long term vs. being a mere stop gap until you find a better opportunity that suits you.
Interviewers might ask the question at any point during the interview, though it’s likely to be asked early on. Other forms of “Why do you want to work here?” that you might be asked include:
- Why are you interested in this job?
- Why do you want to work for us?
Why Do You Want to Work Here? Examples of How NOT to Answer
One way to prepare for how to answer interview questions is to be clear on what not to say. There are some answers that employers definitely don’t want to hear when you’re asked “Why do you want to work here?” Examples include:
“I saw the job posted and thought it would be a great stepping stone to better things in my career.” A response like this is not only self-involved and all about you, but it also indicates a lack of loyalty and that you are focused on how you’ll move forward vs. being focused on the present, indicating you’ll quickly move on to another company if a “better” position comes along.
“I really need a job and this one looked decent.” This type of response is honest, but it demonstrates a lack of interest in and commitment to the role and company. It might also prompt concern that you’ll move on to another job as soon as you find one more interesting.
“I know your company offers a solid compensation and benefits package.” If your primary motivation is money, which is what an answer like this would make you sound like, then an employer likely won’t want to hire you. Yes, employers understand that benefits are a top consideration for candidates, though they don’t want it to be the top reason for accepting a position.
“Why Do You Want to Work Here?” Best Answers
The best way to answer “Why do you want to work here?” will be based on the company and job you’re applying for. Regardless, your answer should consider what you have to offer the company and why the company would want to hire you. To help you craft your answer, ask yourself the following questions:
- How will you align with the culture of the company?
- How can you help the company reach its goals?
- What past career successes have you had that could possibly be applied to this organization?
To answer these questions fully:
- Do your homework on the company, its culture, values, and mission, and see where you fit in and how you align with it.
- Look back on your past performance reviews and positive remarks from your supervisors and coworkers that might apply to the company.
- Consider what gets you excited when you think about the position and company.
“Why Do You Want to Work Here?” Sample Answers
Here are a few examples of how you might respond to “Why do you want to work here?” You can take these examples and use them as a starting point to come up with your own responses.
- I’ve seen your company listed as a top place to work in the area for the past five years and have read about how your company puts employees and employee development first, which is the type of company I’m excited to work for and get behind.
- I’m excited about this opportunity and being able to contribute to a person-centered company.
- This opportunity would allow me to work in a collaborative environment across several divisions that I look forward to aligning with to meet and surpass our goals.
- I see myself succeeding in this role because I’ve worked on similar projects in the past and understand what it takes to stay on schedule and meet the client’s needs.
- After learning more about this company and job, I’m certain I can find ways to support the innovative approach to content development and marketing efforts.
- Your behind-the-scenes video got me excited because I got to see team collaboration in action to bring a creative project to life. I’d be thrilled to work with such a collaborative and artistic team to apply my video production skills.
These guidelines and example answers will help you prepare for your interview and craft your own, original thoughtful responses to “Why do you want to work here.” You’re one step closer to landing your dream job.
Interview Coaching with Advantis Global
If you’re ready to make a career move, Advantis Global can help. We work with a large range of companies, from Fortune 50s to start-ups, placing top tech candidates in permanent and contract positions. We will support you in making your skills shine on your resume and also offer interview coaching to help you prepare. Submit your resume or apply for a job on our website to get connected to a recruiter.
