Mastering the "Why Are You Interested in This Position?" Interview Question
Interviewers often ask, "Why are you interested in this position?" during job interviews. This question aims to gauge your enthusiasm for the role and how well you understand the company’s values and goals. It’s crucial to approach this question thoughtfully to demonstrate your connection to the company and your passion for the job.
To effectively convey your interest, you can structure your response starting with, "I’m interested in this job, at this company, because…" followed by three specific reasons. Here’s how to construct a compelling answer:
Crafting the Perfect Response
To deliver a nuanced and convincing answer to "Why are you interested in this position?", you should focus on three key aspects: professional fit, cultural fit, and personal fit.
1. Professional Fit
Begin by detailing how your professional skills align with the job requirements.
Example: "I’m interested in this position because I believe my skills can effectively address the challenges your company is facing. This role also offers me the opportunity to further develop these skills, benefitting both the company and my career. If I’m able to deliver results and meet the company’s objectives, I can grow professionally in the direction I aspire to."
This segment assures the employer that you are excited about contributing to the company’s success and advancing your career.
2. Cultural Fit
Next, discuss why the company’s culture resonates with you.
Example: "Additionally, I am drawn to the culture of your organization. From my research and what I’ve heard, it seems like an ideal match for my personality and values. Your mission statement particularly resonates with me, and I am genuinely passionate about the work your company does."
To strengthen this part of your answer, be specific about what elements of the company’s culture attract you. Pre-interview research is key. Consider the following points during your research:
- Is the company a leader in its industry?
- Is it known for innovation or cutting-edge products?
- Does it have a stellar reputation for customer service?
- Is it recognized as a great place to work?
- Does it prioritize employee development?
Highlighting these points shows heartfelt sincerity, aligning your values with the company’s ethos.
3. Personal Fit
Conclude by adding a personal touch that makes your answer more relatable.
Example: "Moreover, this job’s location is perfect for me as I’ve always wanted to live here."
Or: "The position is just five minutes from my home, which is a significant convenience."
Or: "I’ve been a long-time admirer of your products, and I am thrilled about the prospect of contributing to a brand I love."
By sharing a personal reason, you add a genuine enthusiasm that is appealing to potential employers.
Summarizing Your Interest
To wrap up, your answer should succinctly cover professional, cultural, and personal reasons for your interest in the position.
Here’s a well-rounded example:
"I’m interested in this job because I can see that my skills could help solve specific problems within your company. Additionally, I appreciate the culture here; from what I’ve read and heard, it aligns well with my personality and values. Plus, I’ve always been a fan of your products and am genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to a brand I admire."
Following this structure will ensure you provide a thorough and persuasive answer to, "Why are you interested in this job?" and set you apart from other candidates.
Do you need help with other common interview questions? Download our FREE list of the 18 most common interview questions to prepare for your next job interview.
