Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on Zety.com.
“Why should we hire you?” sounds straightforward, but in reality, it’s one of the trickiest interview questions.
Moreover, any interview is really about this one thing — why would you be a good fit for this position? Read on to find out how to answer the “Why should we hire you?” question correctly, once and for all.
This guide will show you:
- Why interviewers ask “Why should we hire you?“
- How to answer “Why should I hire you?“ in a way that wins the interviewer over.
- What answer works best when the recruiter asks “Why are you the best candidate for this job?”
Learn how to tackle the “Why should we hire you” question in the best way possible with the following.
Why Interviewers Ask ‘Why Should We Hire You?’
There’s no single correct answer, but there is a formula to construct your answers correctly. When an interviewer asks, “Why should I hire you?”, they are really asking: Why are you the best candidate for this position?
On average, recruiters spend just 7 seconds looking at a job application, and 90% of recruiters use software to filter job applications initially. But thanks to your excellent resume and perfect cover letter, you’ve made it to the job interview. When the recruiter asks, “Why should I hire you,” remember that they want to make sure:
- Whether you know what they want from a potential candidate.
- Whether you can fulfill their expectations.
- If you understand what this organization or company does.
- If you’re a cultural match and can fit in easily with other employees.
Here’s the thing: There are others who are also qualified, perhaps more than you. You must use your interview to explain your potential employer why you are a good fit for this position.
So, use this interview question to sell yourself once and for all.
How to Answer the ‘Why Should We Hire You?’ Interview Question
“What makes you a good fit for this job?” “Why do you think you are qualified for this position?” One of the most feared job interview questions can take various forms.
Let’s analyze how to answer this interview question:
- Show that you have the skills and experience to do the job and deliver great results. Emphasize your key skills, strengths, talents, work experience, and professional achievements that are fundamental to getting great things done in this position.
- Highlight that you’ll fit in and be a great addition to the team. Show the interviewer that you have the traits and qualities the employer is looking for. Identify the company’s culture and the department’s characteristic features, and tell the interviewer how you will fit in.
- Describe how hiring you will make their life easier and help them achieve more. Determine what problems they had so far, what new issues or goals they have now, and how your specific skills and experience can be useful. Scour the company’s website and social media channels to research their roadmap and history. Google their media mentions and case studies. Reread the job ad you applied to. Use this information to guide your answer.
- Show enthusiasm for performing required duties, not just capability. Your application lets them know you’re willing to do the work. Being called for the interview means they think you’re capable. Apart from highlighting your skills and experience, show them your enthusiasm to prove you’ll have a positive attitude toward your tasks.
- Always speak honestly. Be honest with both yourself and your prospective employer. Ask yourself “Why would I be a good fit for this job,” and answer truthfully. You won’t make it far if you lie on your resume or during the job interview. Recruiters often ask follow-up questions to check if you’re consistent with what you’ve written on your resume.
Why Should We Hire You: Best Answer Sample
“I believe I am the ideal candidate for this position because of the unique combination of skills, experiences, and qualities I bring to the table.
My [mention specific skills or experiences relevant to the job] have been honed through [mention relevant experience or education], allowing me to contribute to your team’s success effectively.
I am known for my [mention a key quality, such as adaptability, problem-solving, or collaboration], which aligns perfectly with the values and goals of your organization.
Additionally, my passion for [mention a relevant aspect of the job or industry] fuels my commitment to delivering exceptional results. I am confident that my skills and enthusiasm make me a valuable asset to your team, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [company name]’s continued success.”
Still feeling lost? Don’t worry, we have more great sample answers and tips for you. Just read on.
‘Why Should We Hire You?’ — Interview Question Variations
- Why do you think this position is a good fit for you?
- Can you explain why your background and experience would be a good fit for this job?
- Why are you the best person for this job?
- Why do you think you’d be a great fit for the team?
- Why should we hire you for this position?
- Can you please describe why you are an ideal candidate for this position?
- What makes you a good candidate for this position?
- Why are you the best candidate for this job?
- Why are you a good fit for this position?
- Why is this job a good fit for you?
- Why are you the best candidate for this position?
- Why do you think this position is a good fit for you?
- Why would you be a good fit for this project?
Here are example answers for different job candidates.
Retail Sales Associate Sample Answer
“I am relatively new to this town, having just moved here from the city about four months ago. Since I’ve been here, I’ve frequented this store a lot, for every occasion, and I’ve always been impressed by the friendly and helpful staff.
If you allowed me the chance to prove myself, I am sure that I would be an excellent addition to your already amazing staff. All this, along with my extroverted nature, is exactly why you should hire me!”
This example answer shows: flattery, enthusiasm, eagerness to learn.
Customer Service Representative Sample Answer
“I had the opportunity to meet some of the team during my last interview, and it felt like a great fit. The group session was positive, and I was impressed by how helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable everyone was. They truly embody the kind of environment I enjoy being part of.
While I don’t have extensive work experience, I am eager to bring my enthusiasm and eagerness to learn to your team. My interactions during the interview and my passion for providing excellent customer service reflect my commitment to being a valuable team member.
I believe I can contribute to the positive atmosphere and, if given the chance, I am confident that I can quickly adapt and make a positive impact.”
This example answer shows: enthusiasm, knowledge of company values, eagerness to learn.
Flight Attendant Sample Answer
“I have been an avid traveler since as young as I can remember. When I reached adulthood and started booking flights for myself, your airline would be my top choice.
Alpha Airlines has always made long-distance travel a pleasure, and I would be honored to say that I work for you.
On top of this, I believe that my patience and multitasking skills are second to none, and these would go a long way in helping me the best flight attendant possible.”
This example answer shows: enthusiasm, mild flattery, company interest, relevance.
Graphic Designer Sample Answer
“Though I’m a recent university graduate, my coursework, major, and minor all coincide with this position.
On top of that, I have gained some job experience relevant both during my previous internship and in the volunteer gig that I work, both of which you may remember mentioned in my resume.
Finally, I have been crossing my fingers for this job specifically, because there would be no place I’d rather work!”
This example answer shows: relevance, enthusiasm, flattery.
Marketing Assistant Sample Answer
“I believe my resume highlights my dedication and potential, despite limited professional experience. Growing up on a farm instilled a strong work ethic that carried through my university years, culminating in graduating with honors.
Now, I’m eager to apply this diligence to your dynamic marketing team. While my experience is limited, my ability to collaborate within a team has been a consistent strength.
In a recent internship, I adapted quickly and assumed a supervisory role, showcasing my capacity for learning and leadership.
My dedication, work ethic, and team-oriented approach make me confident in my ability to thrive in a marketing assistant role. If there are specific aspects you’d like me to expand upon, please let me know.”
This example answer shows: open-ended answer, confidence, relevance.
Project Manager Sample Answer
“From what I’ve read on your company’s roadmap plans posted online, it sounds like you need a project manager who is capable of handling other departmental roles, as well.
I couldn’t find a way to succinctly describe it on my resume, but during my internship at BioGenCo, I spent a month each on five different teams to get a handle on how the company functions as a whole.
Now, with my supervisory experience where I’ve raised output by 32%, I believe I am well-equipped to be the best project manager while also being knowledgeable of the roles of other departments.”
This example answer shows: enthusiasm, quantifiable achievements, company research, awareness of future needs.
Restaurant Manager Sample Answer
“When I read the job posting, I noticed that you specifically mentioned you were looking for someone with a mid- or intermediate level of supervisory experience at your restaurant.
Now, my resume may have told you that I have five years of restaurant management work history, during which I increased sales by 47% while cutting overhead.
However, what my resume does not include are the various other roles in a restaurant that I’ve become familiar with. From the front-of-house positions, where I started as a waiter, to the back-of-house, I’ve gained knowledge of each and every important aspect of running a busy restaurant.
I believe that this experience, coupled with my personable attitude and hard work ethic, is why I am a great candidate for the job.”
This example answer shows: best candidacy, quantifiable achievements, and super-relevance.
Digital Marketing Coordinator Sample Answer
“I believe my previous experience working in a similar position as a part of a team that had a similar structure will help me easily adjust to the team you’re leading. Despite my graphic design background, I worked closely with project managers, developers, SEO PMs, and UX specialists.
Being a communicative and problem-solving person has helped me become very adaptable when it comes to cooperation. And as long as we’re continuing to grow, I can go on well with any colleague.”
This example answer shows: enthusiasm, skills, flattery, knowledge of company values.
IT Project Manager Sample Answer
“I am aware of your company’s desire to overhaul your entire IT team.
As you have seen from my resume and cover letter, not only do my background and experience overlap with what you are looking for but my additional skills as an IT technician for XYZ could be well-suited to help you expand further.
Would you like me to go into more detail of what I had in mind?”
This example answer shows: enthusiasm, company research, open-ended answer.
Technical Sales Representative Sample Answer
“As you can see from my cover letter and resume, most of my work history has been as an IT consultant. This position has given me a good understanding of how business and technology cooperate and what challenges they face.
I know from your job ad that you need someone who is friendly to handle new clients in your ever-growing tech firm, and I think that I am just the girl for this role! With my personable attitude and relevant technical background, I am confident that I would fit perfectly in this position you are offering.”
This example answer shows: relevance, knowledge of company goals.
In each case, remember to explain why your background and experience would be a good fit for the job. This is what the recruiter wants to hear when you answer the “Why should I hire you” question.
Topics to Avoid When Answering ‘Why Should We Hire You?’
Honesty is paramount, but there are times when you should just keep your truthful reply to yourself. Don’t be dishonest. Just avoid the following topics:
- Money: Usually, compensation is the primary factor for you wanting to be hired. You know it, and they know it. However, leave it out of your answer if you want a chance at earning that paycheck!
- Benefits: Similar to compensation, don’t allow them to think you’re only interested in the position because of the perks and benefits the company has to offer.
- Education subsidy: This perk is about growing your qualifications, yet you still should not mention it in your answer. It can make you seem overly focused on what you can get from the company.
- Personal reasons: You may need this job to come in so you don’t default on your mortgage, but don’t let this show during your interview. The company doesn’t want someone who’s desperate or is there just for the money.
- General interest: What I mean here is vague interest. Don’t just say this kind of work or this kind of company interests you, focus on this particular employer.
Think of this interview question as if you were introducing yourself to a potential love interest for the first time. This will help keep you on track!
Key Takeaways
To ace the tricky “Why should we hire you?” interview question, you need to sell yourself to the hiring manager and convince them that:
- You’re a good fit and will be a valuable addition to the team.
- You have the skills and experience to solve problems and overcome challenges.
- And that hiring you will solve their recruitment problems and help to achieve their team and business objectives.
You can do that by:
- Staying honest. Make sure that your answers remain true to who you are, but skip answers related to money and other personal interests.
- Using research to guide your answer. If you don’t research the company, you will be unprepared to answer this question in a way that will win them over.
- Conveying healthy enthusiasm. Don’t just tell them you’re excited. Make them feel how excited you are with relevant adjectives, verbs, and tone of voice. But don’t exaggerate.
- Being prepared! Don’t dare come up with an answer to this question on the spot! You need time getting ready beforehand.
To simplify all that, here’s yet another sample answer:
“You should hire me, because I have relevant skills, useful experience and I am passionate about the job you offer. After some research I am certain I can be a great fit for your company. Furthermore, I believe that I can enhance the positive environment and quickly adapt to make a beneficial impact if provided with the opportunity.”