Responding to "Why do you want to join our company?"
- Jessica López
Analytics
“Why do you want to join our company?” or “Why should we hire you?” are common interview questions that represent more than a formality. They’re a powerful opportunity to show potential employers that you're not only qualified for the role but also genuinely interested in their company. Tailoring your response to each specific company is crucial; it demonstrates your dedication and shows that you’ve done your homework, making your answer more impactful and relevant.
Why is this question important?
This question is so important because it:
Demonstrates your research and preparation:
Employers want to see that you've taken the time to understand their company, its mission, and its values. This shows that you're serious about the role and not just applying to every job opening you come across.
Example: If a company values innovation and you highlight your passion and experience in driving innovative projects, you align yourself with their core values.
Shows your fit and motivation:
Your answer helps the interviewer understand why you're a good fit for the company culture and how your career goals align with what the company offers.
Example: If you're passionate about sustainability and the company is known for its green initiatives, you can emphasize how your personal values and professional goals align with theirs.
Highlights your enthusiasm:
Employers are looking for candidates who are not just capable but also enthusiastic about the role. Genuine enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
Example: Sharing a specific project or aspect of the company that excites you can demonstrate your genuine interest.
Sets the stage for the interview:
A well-thought-out response can positively influence the tone of the interview and give you a chance to steer the conversation towards your strengths and interests.
Example: By expressing your excitement about the company's future plans, you can segue into discussing how your background and skills will help achieve those plans.
This question is your chance to connect the dots between your skills, experiences, and passions, and what the company is looking for. It's an opportunity to show that you've done your homework and are genuinely excited about the possibility of joining their team.
So, let's dive into how we can craft a compelling and impactful response!
Guidelines on how to approach the question
Research the company:
Look into the company's mission statement, values, and culture. Identify aspects that resonate with your own values and career goals.
Familiarize yourself with the company’s products, services, and recent achievements. This shows you are genuinely interested and informed.
Understand their market position, competitors, and unique selling points.
Ask yourself:
What do you already know about the companies you're applying to, and what more could you learn?
Align your goals with the company’s objectives:
Reflect on how the role and the company align with your career aspirations. Explain how joining the company fits into your long-term career plans.
Highlight your relevant skills and experience. Show how you can contribute to the company’s success and address any specific needs or challenges they have.
Ask yourself:
What aspects of the company’s work inspire you or align with your career aspirations?
Can you identify any shared values or goals?
Highlighting your unique value:
Talk about the unique skills, experiences, and perspectives you bring to the table.
Show how you’re not just capable but also enthusiastic about the role. This can set you apart from other candidates.
Consider:
Your past accomplishments, relevant skills, and how you can solve problems or contribute to the company’s success.
Structure your response
Step | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
| "My entire career has been focused on developing innovative tech solutions, which aligns with your company’s mission to lead in tech innovation. This consistency makes me a strong candidate for this role." |
|
| If the job requires strong leadership and teamwork, mention your relevant experience and accomplishments in these areas:
|
|
| "I noticed that your team is looking for someone to streamline project management processes. In my previous job, I implemented a new project management system that reduced project timelines by 15%. By hiring me, you will gain a team member who has a proven track record of increasing efficiency and profitability. I can bring my expertise in project management to streamline your processes and improve outcomes." |
|
| "I am passionate about sustainable energy, and your company’s commitment to renewable energy initiatives aligns perfectly with my values. While I have achieved significant results, I believe my ability to collaborate effectively with teams will be a valuable asset. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your innovative projects in this field and to work with your talented team."
|
Dos and Don’ts for responding to the question "Why do you want to join our company?"
✅ Dos | ❌ Dont’s |
✅ Research the company thoroughly. | ❌ Rely on generic statements. |
✅ Align your goals with the company’s needs. | ❌ Make it all about what you can gain. |
✅ Provide concrete examples and data. | ❌ Use overly broad or unsubstantiated claims. |
✅ Show genuine enthusiasm in the job. | ❌ Fake enthusiasm or be insincere. |
✅ Be honest about your qualifications. | ❌ Over-embellish or exaggerate your skills. |
✅ Tailor your response to the specific company. | ❌ Use the same answer for every interview. |
✅ Connect your past experiences to the company’s future. | ❌ Just repeat your resume. |
✅ Highlight your unique value. | ❌ Focus on meeting the minimum requirements. |
✅ Maintain a positive and humble tone. | ❌ Come across as arrogant or entitled. |
✅ Prepare and practice your response. | ❌ Wing it or go unprepared. |
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