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.
How to Answer “Why Do You Want to Work Here?"
1. Research the Company
Before the interview, do thorough research on the company. Visit their website, read about their history, and learn about their products or services. Look for recent news articles or press releases that may give you insight into their current projects and future plans.
2. Identify the Company's Values
In addition to learning about the company's products and services, pay close attention to their values. Look for statements about the company's mission, vision, and culture. This information will help you understand what the company stands for and how you might fit into their culture.
3. Connect Your Values with the Company's Values
Once you understand the company's values, think about how your values align with theirs. Consider how your skills and experience can contribute to the company's goals. When answering the question "Why do you want to work here?" be sure to connect your values with the company's values. For example, if the company values innovation, discuss how your passion for new technologies can help the company achieve its goals.
4. Highlight Your Passion for the Role
In addition to connecting your values with the company's values, it's important to highlight your passion for the role. Talk about what excites you about the position and how you can use your skills and experience to excel in the role. Be specific and use examples to illustrate your point.
5. Show Your Enthusiasm
Finally, it's important to show your enthusiasm for the company and the role. Smile, make eye contact, and use positive body language to show that you're excited about the opportunity. Remember, your enthusiasm can be contagious, and it can go a long way in making a positive impression on the interviewer.
Should I mention salary or benefits when answering the "Why do you want to work here?" question?
It is generally not advisable to mention salary or benefits when answering the "Why do you want to work here?" question during an interview. The question is intended to gauge your interest and enthusiasm for the company, its values, and its mission. By focusing on salary or benefits, you risk coming across as someone who is primarily motivated by financial gain rather than a genuine interest in the company and its work. Instead, focus on specific aspects of the company that appeal to you, such as its culture, mission, or opportunities for growth and development.
“Why Do You Want to Work Here?” Best 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.
