Want to land your dream job? Give a strong interview! The employer will feel confident that you’ll meet their needs, be a great addition to the team, and fit in with their company culture.
During this “getting-to-know-you” conversation, your goal is to answer the employer’s questions clearly, confidently, and concisely while persuading them that you’re the right choice. Knowing what questions to expect will give your interview a performance boost. Today, we’re looking at one of the most-asked interview questions and how to answer it: “Why do you want to work here?”
What the Interviewer Really Wants To Know
“Out of all the jobs/employers you could have applied for, why did you pick us?” Sometimes, the employer will alternatively ask, “What do you know about our company?”
Knowing little to nothing about the job or the employer is a big red flag to your interviewer. Prove that you’re familiar with them and that you applied for this specific job for a reason. Before the interview, ensure you know enough about the employer that you can easily give a 30-60 second presentation about them.
Here are some tips:
Visit the Employer’s Website
The About Us section or the Mission/Vision page is an ideal place to start learning about their core values, history, and goals.
Search the Employer in the News
Mention one of their recent accomplishments — donating to the community, earning an award, being invited to an event or conference, making a discovery, etc.
Identify Something You Have in Common
Ending your response with a note of commonality will give it an extra boost. If, for example, you discover that the employer recently donated to the local SPCA, and you have adopted an animal from the SPCA, this could be a way to connect to the company’s business culture.
Answers To Avoid
“You’re an Aerospace Company, So I Guess You Do Aerospace Stuff.”
This tells the employer you only know as much as the average person — meaning you don’t stand out. Furthermore, it feels like a “lazy” answer, implying you didn’t take the time to research the company. Because you haven’t put thought into your application, you probably won’t be very invested in the company culture either.
“I Don’t Know.”
While you never want to lie during an interview, you should also never put yourself in a place where you have no choice but to say, “I don’t know.” Again, this shows a lack of interest in the company — and in your own goals and abilities. An employer wants someone invested in the work and culture of their business, but this response fails to impress and implies disinterest and apathy toward the opportunity.
“I Just Need Money.”
While this may be an honest answer, the employer will likely hear, “I’ll be moving on as soon as a higher-paying opportunity comes along.” An employer won’t want to spend time, money, and resources training someone likely to leave soon.
“This Job Will Get My Foot in the Door.”
While this might seem like a harmless answer, what the employer may hear is, “I just want some experience so I can leave this job for another one.” Remember: The employer is looking to fill the open position, preferably with someone who plans to stay for a while. Avoid inferring that you might only be there for a short time.
“I Just Need a Job.”
Of course, you do! That’s why you’re in this interview right now! This response shows no interest in the company besides what it can do for you. It doesn’t inspire confidence in the employer.
Good Responses
Talk About Your Positive History with the Company
Has the company served you or a loved one in the past? Did you intern there? Mention past connections to show your familiarity and positive experience with the company. For example:
“My family has had incredible experiences at Health Care Hospital. Last year, you cared for my father while he was recovering from a stroke. I was so impressed with the hospital staff — the nurses, the admins, the doctors. They showed such kindness and attentiveness. During my Healthcare Management course at EFSC, I actually wrote a research paper about your hospital’s patient care protocols as an example of ideal practices for medical professionals.”
Talk About How You’re a Practical Fit
Do your skills match the company’s needs? Hone in on this. Be specific! Go beyond talking about your abilities and include ways to help the company grow beyond your job description. For example:
“I noticed in your job posting that this role requires experience with website and social media management. For the past 5 years, I’ve been overseeing business accounts for Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok, as well as managing company websites on Shopify and WordPress. Based on my previous work history, I could quickly and seamlessly step into this role. I would love to help your company grow beyond its current online presence. For example, your company does not currently have a LinkedIn profile. I have experience managing LinkedIn accounts for businesses and would love to help launch yours!”
Talk About What You Have in Common
What do you value? Does the company share those values? Sharing what you have in common is a great way to say, “I’ll fit right in with your company’s culture!” For example:
“Congratulations on your team participating in a local Habitat for Humanity build. I would love to work for an organization committed to improving our local communities. I’ve personally participated in four Habitat for Humanity builds; the skills I’ve learned, coupled with the knowledge I gained, have inspired me to seek out other, similar volunteer opportunities within our community.”
Talk About What You Admire in the Company
What does the company do exceptionally well? How do they inspire you or motivate you? While avoiding flattery, speak sincerely about how the company is making an impact — and that you want to be part of it! For example:
“I recently read an interview with the CEO of Academia College, where he talked about the college’s commitment to trade programs and apprenticeships. Many students overlook trades, thinking they must go the “traditional academic route,” but your college encourages them to think otherwise. The teachers, staff, and mentors work together to ensure that students choose a career path that works for them. I love how much your culture values this “collaborative counseling” approach and would love to be part of it.”
A Final Tip To Remember
The key to “selling” this answer is to be authentic. Pick a genuine response — something you truly feel about the company’s culture, opportunities, or values — and speak about it sincerely. Employers can spot a less-than-genuine answer, so the more you believe in your words, the stronger your answer will be!
Need Help Preparing for Your Interview?
Career Services is here to assist! You can use their free, online simulator called Perfect Interview to train with 24/7, or schedule meetings with a Career Center Coordinator to practice your interview skills.
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