How to Answer, “Why Do You Want This Job?” Right

Acing interviews takes strategy, but it also takes being able to bring your guard down and say why you’re the best candidate

You could be sitting in front of an interviewer acing every question, but there’s always one query that throws most people off their A-game. The interviewer may be impressed by your performance and you might even be complimented for keeping your cool. Yet, as smooth as things are going you know there’s a curveball question coming. You know this because you came prepared with a series of answers. Finally, near the end of the thirty-minute block, you’re calmly asked, “Why do you want this job?”

I admit that when I used to get this question I felt a pit in my stomach. All of the confidence that I had gone down the drain because I had no idea how to answer this question. It’s an examination that can have different forms from, “Why do you want to work here?” or more directly, “Why are you the right person for the job?” Like this question has different faces you must have a series of responses cached.

I know the importance of being prepared because I’ve been on both sides of this interrogation realm. Early in my career, I had the honor of being mentored by HR executives who ran internship programs across entertainment agencies and studios. As I advanced, I became the interviewer to students hoping to join the organizations or companies I got to be a part of. By walking a mile in both pairs of shoes I learned that above all else honesty is the best policy.

What not to say

Executives and hiring managers are professionals who can literally see through a facade faster than I can call out fake designer merch. (I’m kind of a fashion snob.) It’s important to remember that a professional can smell sincerity versus serious bull. Of course, a driving force for you wanting the role could be its benefits, perks, or salary, but these aren’t good enough reasons to take a job.

Quick anecdote on why I believe that money isn’t enough or a good answer. I once had a job I quit in under a month. While the pay was great, after feeling like a sequin-clad muppet doing coffee runs and getting yelled at I knew I deserved better. That’s why you have to investigate within yourself what about that job or company speaks to your soul. If you can brainstorm a list of reasons why this job seems like the right fit I guarantee that you will know you’re the right fit for them.

What you should have ready

Before the interview, you should brainstorm different reasons why you want this job or join that company. For example, maybe you’re a fan of the company’s mission or you’ve always wanted to be in that industry. Maybe you’re just starting, or changing careers, and you want to learn as much as you can. Your reasons for wanting to be there can easily be adapted into crafting your response on what makes you the best candidate.

Remember that research sets apart the pros from the hopefuls. Do your due diligence and read about the role. Know the company's motto, its brand, the news surrounding them. Convey their message as a company in your voice.

In case you want a list, here are some things to help be prepared:

• Know the company’s mission statement (if they have one) and brand.
• Have at least 3 news pieces to cite the company’s success.
• Look at the job’s responsibilities and line your skills up with the specific language they use.
• Be able to speak on benefits, perks, etc. but don’t lead with this first.
• Have a follow-up question, or two, ready for them.

How to answer the question

“Hi William, we’ll see you know,” that line takes me back to days of waiting of in nicely furnished lobby rooms and thanking the receptionist for the bottled waters that they stored in a mini-fridge by the front desk. Being prepared for interview questions is great but remember to sound authentic and not rehearsed. I know, not sounding processed is easier said than done.

Along with the list provided below, the way you can ace the interview and the, “Why do you want this job?” question is by sticking to my 3 Cs. It’s my shorthand that means concision, coherence, and calculation. Above all remember to breathe and pause between your answers. The last thing you want is your amazing answers all crashing together. Of course, when this infamous question hits you need to show that calculated side of yourself.

Speak in your most authentic self, with your voice, and remember these bullet points when asked, “Why do you want this job?”:

• Thank the interviewer for their time and cite one aspect of the job/company that interested you.
• State the reason this job interested you in the first place.
• Explain how the position would contribute to your career BUT also how you would contribute to the company and the position.
• Have one or two anecdotes, with specific detail, that showcase your skills and experience to the position.
• Always end with a smile and a sincere thank you for the person’s time.

When the day comes for your interview my best advice is to be in the moment. Being present in an interview is powerful. Remember that you have this interview for a reason, there is something special about you!