This classic question may be asked in a job interview in any profession or industry. It’s similar to the question, “Why do you think you’re the best person for this job?” Both require you to sell yourself and to show you’ve done your research on the position and the company. It all boils down to what value you would add if hired.
Be Ready to Nail It
As you answer this question, you need to draw clear connections between your skills, knowledge and experience, and the job requirements. Interviewers are looking for creativity, specificity, and authenticity as you respond.
Do your homework. Deepen your understanding of the job responsibilities, the company, and its culture. Find the business’s current pain points and how you can relieve them; for instance, problems you can help solve or issues you can effectively address. To learn as much as possible, start by analyzing the job posting. Also, look at the company’s website and social media.
Actively listen. Is there anything the hiring manager is particularly excited about? Are there certain obstacles the organization is facing? Draw parallels between them and what you have to offer.
Decide what you’re going to focus on in your answer. Zero in on one or two things that make it clear that you’ve done your research and have been listening. Align your credentials with the company’s needs and clearly state your value add. How could you make things easier and better? This is your chance to shine.
Structure your response. Start by restating the primary problem the company is looking to solve. This shows you understand and further showcases your listing and communication strengths. Then, describe what you bring to the table that helps solve this problem. Be clear and direct, and use a story or example to drive your point home.
Get to know the STAR method. The STAR acronym stands for: situation: setting the scene as you begin telling your story; task: explaining your role in that situation; action: describing the specific action you took; and results: showing the positive outcome, using numbers and statistics whenever possible.
At PrideStaff Fresno, our best-in-class approach has helped thousands find their dream jobs. Think of us as an experienced resource, a connected networker, and a career coach, all rolled into one. We can help you successfully navigate through your entire job search process from start to finish, with results that exceed all your expectations. Contact us today so we can tell you more.
