Why Do You Want This Job?

“Why do you want this job?” It’s one of the most common questions recruiters ask candidates. Though it sounds simple enough, it’s a fairly complex question that demands plenty of forethought to effectively answer. Here’s the right way to approach this question during an interview to impress your recruiter and show how you will excel in the position.

What’s a Recruiter Really Looking For?

Before you can formulate a response, it’s important to understand a recruiter’s motive for asking this question. What information are they looking to uncover?

An article from Monster highlights three specific areas that interviewees should cover:

  1. How your skills match the job
  2. The fact you’re enthusiastic about the position
  3. How you would fit in with the company culture

If you can succinctly touch on these three points, you have a good chance of making a splash with your recruiter. Here’s some specific guidance on how to properly address each of these areas.

Skills

First, make it clear your existing skill set is perfect for the job you’re applying for. To accomplish this, you’ll need to have a thorough understanding of what the job duties entail. Read through the job description a few times and look for ways your skills parallel those tasks.

Enthusiasm

Next, there’s the issue of enthusiasm. If you didn’t already know, being enthusiastic is extremely important and can give you a decided edge over other candidates. In fact, a 2016 Jobvite Recruiter Nation Report found, “After first-person interviews, recruiters said the biggest decider for hiring someone was enthusiasm at 78 percent.” When answering this question, mention the fact you’re excited about the position and how it would provide you with an opportunity for growth.

Culture

Finally, there’s company culture. This is something that’s vital to a company’s bottom line, and many recruiters place an emphasis on only hiring individuals who truly mesh with their culture. But how do you prove you’re a good fit culturally?

Start by researching the company. Learn about their history, goals, philosophy and values. Then point out some things you have in common. For instance, if you’re applying with a company that values being eco-friendly, explain how this aligns with your own personal values.

Recruiters are typically looking for three key elements when asking, “Why do you want this job?” By covering these three points, you should be able to make a great first impression and be a frontrunner among other candidates.

Has your job search gotten off track? Contact Encadria Staffing Solutions to learn about opportunities in your area.

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