How to answer “why should I hire you?”
Of all the challenging questions you might face in an job interview, "why should I hire you" is perhaps one of the most dreaded. How do you answer in a way that will make up the interviewer's mind instead of causing them to scratch you off their mental list?
To help you out, we're giving you a guide to help you answer this tough query and succeed in the executive recruitment process.
What do they really want to know?
When answering this question, it can be tempting to focus on yourself and what you can get out of the role, but this is not what the interviewer is trying to find out.
What they really want to know is: what can you do for them? Or rather, what can you give them that other candidates can't? This question is your chance to showcase the unique combination of qualities that makes you not just a good option for the vacancy, but the only option. They key is to identify what makes you stand out from the crowd and use it to convince the interviewer that you will be an asset to the organisation. Think of it as a sales pitch – you are being given the opportunity to sell yourself, so make the most of it.
Planning ahead for a great answer
According to online career resource Big Interview, the key to a successful response is to prepare well beforehand, as this will spare you from going blank or giving a poor answer due to nervousness. Firstly, you should brainstorm all the qualities you posses that make you right for the role. Take a look at the job description as a starting point, and then find the attributes that will set you apart. Next, you should formulate your response based on these qualities, structuring it in a way that will make your argument most effective.
Finally, don't forget to practice so you can ensure you deliver your answer well in the interview and make the most of the opportunity when it comes up.
3 ways to answer this question
There are a range of ways you can answer "why should I hire you?", but career advice site The Muse reveals that three of the most effective approaches include:
- Talking about what makes you a motivated and enthusiastic candidate, and how this will benefit the organisation.
- Demonstrating your investment in the company by highlighting what you know about it and how you will be able to help it reach new heights.
- Highlighting a big challenge the business is facing and showing why you are the ideal solution.
For more help with your accounting job search, contact Durno today.