The ultimate guide to answering “why should we hire you?”
Introduction
"Why should we hire you?" is one of the most common questions you will get in a job interview. True, it sounds complicated, even intimidating. But it's a great opportunity to show why you're the perfect person for the role. It's also your chance to prove that you're better qualified than the other applicants.
The interviewer may ask this tough question not in those exact words. And while you can tackle it in many different ways, we'll teach you the best ways to prepare for it. Remember, preparation is key to nailing this question.
In this article, you will find tips, advice, and sample answers on how best to answer this question. You'll learn why interviewers ask this question. You'll also learn how to craft and deliver a compelling response.
- Getting ready for “why should we hire you”
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Example questions & answers
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Getting ready for “why should we hire you”
When you're not adequately prepared for an interview, this becomes apparent to the interviewer quite quickly. You might end up taking too long to come up with the correct answers, or you give generic clichés as responses to the question.
When you're not prepared, the hiring manager might assume several things, none of which are complimentary about you. They might think you don't have the needed skill sets for the job or you're not confident about meeting the challenges that come with the role.
They might also take your lack of preparation as a sign of disinterest in the job. If you can't be bothered to prepare for the job interview process, how can they expect you to properly prepare for the job? So, it's absolutely crucial that you prepare for the interview, especially for the “Why should we hire you” question.
Here are the steps you need to take:
1. Understanding the “Why should we hire you?” question
On the face of it, the question “Why should we hire you?” seems simple enough. But there's more to this job interview question than it might appear at face value.
Why employers ask this question
The question “Why should we hire you?” is common in job interviews because your answer helps the hiring manager assess whether you're a good fit for the job you're applying for. They want to know if your competencies match the job description and their needs.
You may have listed your soft and hard skills on your resume, and that's informative. But the job interviewer will want more details so they can evaluate your abilities better. For example, your problem-solving and communication skills. These skills are important in all aspects of the business. Your answers should reassure the interviewer that you can use those skills to overcome challenges in the workplace.
Your manner of responding can help the job interviewer gauge your interest in the job, the company, and the industry. Employers prefer applicants who show genuine enthusiasm for the company's particular industry. They wouldn't want to worry that you might easily quit and transfer to another field that you find more exciting.
Identifying what interviewers want to hear
Now that you understand why job interviewers ask this question, it becomes easier to identify the answers they seek. They're looking to make sure that you have the right set of skills to match the job requirements. They want to know if you can add value to the company. They also need to evaluate if your interpersonal skills complement the company culture.
Of course, the other candidates might also have the suitable skills to benefit the company. It's crucial to point out your unique selling points and differentiate yourself from the rest of the pack.
2. Preparing your answer
Now that you have a clearer idea of what this question is all about, it's time for you to prepare an effective response.
Research the company and role
Your preparation starts with company research. Check out the company's website, social media posts, and online articles. Learn about their vision, values, goals, culture, and industry. This can help you find the right tone for your answers. It can also help you demonstrate your initiative and interest better.
You should investigate the specific job posting you're applying for. That way, you know exactly what you're in for.
Assess your skills and experience
Now, you can list down all your skills, strengths, and accomplishments. Among those, pinpoint the ones that match the job requirements. You don't need to mention all the skills you know. Focus on the skills relevant to the job posting and the company.
Develop a unique selling proposition (USP)
Now, identify what key qualifications can make you stand out among other potential applicants. Highlight your exceptional skills and outstanding accomplishments. The combination of certain strengths may also help set you apart from the rest of the applicants.
Create a concise and memorable list of USPs so your interviewer can remember you versus the other applicants.
3. Crafting your answer
After identifying the traits and skills you want to emphasise, you need to find the right words to use and the proper delivery methods for your answers.
Be relevant and specific
Start by customising your answer to fit with the values of the company and the tasks required for the job. Again, you have to focus on your most relevant skills.
Then, give examples that prove the validity of your claims. Don't just declare that you're diligent and hardworking. Prove it by citing your exemplary attendance records in previous jobs. Emphasise that you never exceeded a deadline.
You can also cite your past sales records to back up your claim that you were a good sales agent in your previous job.
Keep it concise
Citing specific examples doesn't give you the licence to ramble on and on about unnecessary details. Suppose you're talking about your previous work experience as a car salesperson. In that case, you don't have to wax poetic about the engine capabilities or the luxurious interiors of the cars you previously sold. Instead, stick to a clear and focused message. If you're emphasising a particular trait, all the details you cite in your example should support the claim.
Show enthusiasm and interest
While delivering your answer, don't act indifferent and lifeless. You might think you're showing the utmost calm, but that might be interpreted as disinterest.
Instead, feel free to show some enthusiasm for the industry. The same goes for the company and for the job itself. It demonstrates that you want this job and won't abandon it for a better offer soon.
4. Practising your answer
Job interviews are like stage plays or even sports activities. It pays well to practise. It's best if you don't deliver your "Why should we hire you" answers for the first time during the interview. Write down an example answer for this question and build on it as you practise.
Rehearse your response
Be sure to rehearse. Ask your supportive friends or family members to role-play the part of the job interviewer. It may seem silly at first, but it works. Or, you can imagine the interviewer asking, “Why should we hire you?” and then you practise your answer in front of the mirror.
At this point, you should have done enough research to know exactly how to pronounce certain words connected to the company. For example, the name of the company and maybe the names of the high-ranking bosses.
Be prepared for follow-up questions
Once you've given your prepared response, expect that the job interviewer to have some follow-up questions. Most of the time, you will have to elaborate on the main points of your answer.
5. Delivering your answer during the actual interview
Here are some tips on how to answer during the actual interview:
Stay confident and authentic
Maintain eye contact, as this conveys your sincere interest. It shows you're paying attention to the conversation. Your interviewer will find it off-putting if you gaze somewhere else during the interview.
Maintain good posture. Again, this shows interest and common courtesy. The job interviewer will not be impressed when you slouch during the whole interview. Slouching would give the impression that you're not taking the entire thing seriously.
Speak with conviction and sincerity. Speaking dispassionately won't do you any favours.
Adapt to the interviewer's reaction
Your responses to the interview are, in a way, like your moves on a chessboard. You often have to adjust to the other person's moves.
In this case, you should pay attention to how the interviewer reacts when you give your answers. They might give you an approving smile when you mention a trait they value, or be impressed as you describe how you accomplished a certain task.
Or they might inadvertently display a disapproving frown, when you mention a specific trait like being a perfectionist. You might be proud of that trait, but that may not be what they're exactly looking for.
Adjust your responses accordingly. At the end of the interview, you can discern the reaction and attitude of the job interviewer to see whether you've succeeded.
Common mistakes to avoid
Sure, no one's perfect. But some mistakes are easy to avoid, especially if you're aware of them in the first place.
Here are some of the more common mistakes that applicants often commit during a job interview:
1. Being too generic
As much as possible, avoid clichés and generic statements. Don't claim that you're “good”. Be more specific, please. If you're applying for a teaching position, emphasise that you can conduct classes in an engaging way. Say that your teaching style encourages students to participate and do well in exams.
Tailor your answer to the specific role. Instead of claiming that you're “a good team player”, cite how your team working ability applies to this job.
2. Neglecting to mention accomplishments
Claims of superior talents and skills are more credible when your previous accomplishments back them. It's more believable that you can achieve something in the future when you've already accomplished something similar in the past.
That means citing your previous successes and achievements. Better yet, use concrete standards and quantifiable data to back up your claims. Instead of claiming that you were a “good” car salesperson, cite how you were among the top 10% of the car salespersons in your previous job in terms of sales, or share how much you sold compared to the company or industry average.
3. Focusing solely on yourself
During the interview, it's not I, me, mine all the time. Publicising your skills and merits is a good thing, but you have to look at the whole picture from the point of view of the company and the job interview.
In other words, it's not really about how good you are. It's more about how you match the needs of the company. You must explain how you will contribute to the company's success if you get the job.
Try to add specific examples of how your skills and competencies will benefit the company. If you excel at sales and marketing, you can emphasise the increased revenues for the company.
If you're applying for a construction job, you can explain how your efficiency can help reduce wasted time. Mention how it can help lessen workforce costs and the chances of injuries or accidents in the workplace. Also say how it can help the company meet project deadlines.
4. Answering with an unprofessional tone
If you're used to speaking in Manglish (Malaysian colloquial English), remember to leave the informal words at home. Avoid ending your sentences with “lah,” especially when speaking with a non-Malaysian interviewer.
Once comfortable with the interviewer, you can use your local dialect or words you know they understand. But if you're uncertain, it's safest to stay professional.
Example questions & answers
How do your background and experience prepare you for this role?
"I worked as a teacher for the last seven years. I was part of a team that was tasked to revamp the curriculum. Our goal was to help students overcome learning challenges and exceed the current educational standards. After three years of using this new curriculum, our analysis showed that our students' test scores increased by at least 50%. Their average score now ranks them well above other similar schools."
What can you bring to this role?
"My competencies combine important hard skills and soft skills. While I have technical expertise in software development, everyone says I also have excellent interpersonal skills. I enjoy working on software programs, and I like working with people. I can work independently but I'm also a team player who thrives in team projects and collaborations. Challenges excite me, and problem-solving is one of my best skills."
How do you believe you can add value to our organisation?
"I have years of experience as a sales agent with an excellent track record in sales. Last year, I received the Sales Agent of the Year Award in my company. I have also grown an extensive network of clients who trust and support me. With these credentials, I believe I can contribute to the success of your organisation. Success in terms of sales, client growth, and cost-saving measures. And social skills being one of my strongest qualities, I believe my personality will be a great fit for your company culture."
Why are you a good fit for this role?
"I believe I'm a good fit for this role because of my relevant skills. As a computer programmer for more than 10 years now, I'm familiar with several programming languages. The job opening requires familiarity with programming languages, and I believe I can satisfy that requirement. In the future, if the company will require me to learn another programming language, I would be happy to join. Programming languages fascinate me and I tend to learn them rather fast. I understand that this is a high-pressure job with tight deadlines. But I'd like to reassure you that I can manage my time effectively, even when working with different departments. Also, I have never missed a deadline in my previous jobs."
Why are you the ideal candidate for this position?
"Event management is aligned with my skills and passions. It's my area of expertise, and the one thing I truly enjoy doing. As an event manager in my current company, I handled and coordinated several events. New product launches, company awards night, promotions, and other corporate events. In my previous company, I learned a lot from the CEO herself. We worked closely and brainstormed together. And we came up with more than 25 different event ideas. We executed more than 12 of those ideas, and they were all successful and well-attended. We were able to promote various brands and startups, and our client-companies were all happy. All of those experiences have honed my skills in creative development, teamwork, and event organization."
How will your skills and experience benefit our team?
"Public relations and advertising are my top two areas of expertise. My strengths are verbal and written communications, visual communication, creative thinking, and critical thinking skills. My experience in this field spans 12 years, and I have worked with many PR practitioners. I also have connections to friends and collaborators in media including TV networks and publications. I've had plenty of experience promoting brands through TV ads, press releases, and promotions. Since my work entails teamwork and partnerships, I've honed my interpersonal skills quite well. I can lead a team but can also be a team player. I enjoy motivating my team to perform their best, without resorting to micro-management or pushing them unnecessarily."
Conclusion
There you have it, the best tips and advice on how to answer the question "Why should we hire you?". Be sure to prepare well for this question. List your skills, talents, and accomplishments that support the idea that you're the best candidate for the job.
Align your strengths and competencies to the job requirements. Highlight your skills and work experience that are relevant to the job. Demonstrate why you're the most qualified for the open role.
The way you compose yourself, speak, and show enthusiasm can help convince your interviewer that you're the one they're looking for.
Remember, stay confident and poised, articulate and enthusiastic. Speak clearly and calmly, and show your interest and determination.
The interviewer may not have decided to hire you on the spot, as they may have other applicants to interview. But if you answer the questions correctly, you set the standards that all the other applicants will have to match.
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FAQs
- How long should my answer be?
It depends mostly on the context of the questions. Answers to basic questions may go from 30 to 90 seconds. More complicated questions may require answers that go from 2 to 4 minutes. Five minutes may be a tad too long.
- What if I don't have much experience in the field?
In this case, you'll want to show how your experience in other fields can still be useful in another field. These are the vaunted transferable skills.
You must also demonstrate your enthusiasm for this new field to reassure them that you won't lose interest anytime soon.
- How can I showcase my soft skills in the answer?
Your soft skills should be fairly self-evident in how you answer the questions, not just in the answers themselves.
Show your enthusiasm when you talk. Demonstrate your problem-solving skills by giving a detailed description of how you accomplished a task. Highlight your teamwork ability using “We” instead of “I” statements.
- Should I focus more on my past achievements or future potential?
Both are important. You can use your past achievements to bolster your claims regarding your future potential.
- What if the interviewer doesn't ask this question directly?
It's very possible that the interviewer won't actually use the words “Why should we hire you?” but they may pose questions that mean the same thing.Check out the Example questions & answers section of this article. The questions listed there are variations of the question, “Why should we hire you?”, such as "Why are you a good fit for this role?".
- How do I address gaps in my work history or skill set?
You're hardly alone in having gaps in your work history. The pandemic also caused numerous layoffs in Malaysia, with 156,000 layoffs by September 2021.
But you can say something about the additional skills you learned during that time. Do mention legitimate reasons for not working, such as being a caretaker for a family member. If you're making a switch from self-employment to employed, it's worth discussing your individual accomplishments, too.
- Is it appropriate to discuss salary expectations in this answer?
When you're asked about the reasons why the company should hire you, it's better if you don't mention your salary expectations as part of your answer. Usually, the interviewer wants employees who are motivated by not just money. It's best to wait for the interviewer to bring up the topic of salary.
- How can I remain confident if I'm nervous during the interview?
Being nervous during a job interview is common, even if you've properly prepared for the questions. But if you're still feeling nervous even as the interview begins, try to practise some methods to keep yourself calm.
You might even admit to being nervous, and that might be considered a friendly approach.
- What if I'm overqualified for the position? How should I approach the question?
It's very common for a company to be cautious of overqualified applicants. So wait for the job interviewer to bring it up. And then be humble when you respond.
Emphasise the parts of the job that truly appeals to you. Thus, if you were a former principal in a previous school and now that you're applying for a teacher's job, mention that you love interacting with students and that you like to foster their interest in your subject.
- How can I effectively research a company's culture and values before the interview?
Just check their official website and review their social media posts and websites. Use Google to find other mentions of the company.
Of course, you can still use traditional methods of discovery. Try to find current or past employees of the company and ask them about the company.
