Tough Interview Question: “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”

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Interview prep is critical to help get you ready for the next step in your career. Just like with any first impression, it’s important to come ready to put your best foot forward. That means dressing for the job you wish you had, doing your homework on the company and the role you are applying to, and coming prepared to answer some common interview questions that will help an interviewer see that you are ready to hit the ground running. One of the toughest and most common interview questions is this: Why do you want to work here?” Today’s blog will discuss why this is such a common interview question and give you some tips on answering it well.  

Why Employers ask this Question 

Employers love this question precisely because it’s a tough one. No canned answer will really meet their needs. But at the heart of the reason is simply that employers want to hire someone who wants to work for them. They are actively trying to hire someone who will not only be good at the job but someone who will enjoy it and want to do it for many years to come.

Employee retention is hard to maintain, especially in inconsistent job markets like what we are currently experiencing. So when an employer asks you this, they really want to know whether you are willing to do the job for more than just the money. Because there’s a chance someone else will eventually come along and offer you more. But if you want to work for their company, then there’s a higher chance you’ll stay loyal for a while longer.  

How not to Answer The Question 

The worst way to answer why you want to work for a company is simply because you need a job. Employers know that candidates are looking for work because they need a job. But with this question, they ask you to convince them why this specific role with their specific company is the one you really want. Compensation can always be negotiated. Just like they are likely willing to pay more for the right candidate, they want to make sure you are after more than just the highest dollar amount. So take that into consideration. Think deeper about why you want to work for the company you are interviewing with.  

The Best way to Answer  

The best way to answer this question is to think about what motivates you as an employee beyond the paycheck. Employers want employees who want to be part of something bigger. Take this question as an opportunity to use your background knowledge. Show off what you know about the company and about the role. Show your interviewer that you are sincere in your interest. And that you are committed to the company that you want to work for. That dedication will make you much more interesting to hiring managers. They know you will go the extra mile to make things work in your new job. 

If you are looking for companies in Nashville hiring candidates like yourself, connect with the team at All-Star Personnel today.  

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