Do Your Homework!

Here is the question: “Why do you want this job?’  It’s a common interview question used by employers across all industries and it sounds as though it should be simple enough to answer; however, like so many others, your response can quickly deflate your chances of landing the job.

When presented with this opportunity during the interview, you should see it as your (brief) opportunity to sell yourself.  It’s a great chance to talk about why your skills are an ideal match for the needs of the company and, assuming you have done your homework, you should also mention what you love about the organization and how you can help them to reach continued success. 

The best advice I can offer is to go into the interview prepared with an answer.  The worst response would be, “I just need a job.”  This does not tell the hiring manager why he/she should offer THIS job to YOU.  Employers want those who are excited about their company and the potential it holds, not someone who is simply there for a paycheck. 

Another important question generally comes during the final portion of the process: “Do you have any questions?”  Please do not allow your answer to be “no”.  Instead, go into the interview with at least three to four questions in mind.  A portion of them may come up earlier in the interview so it is important to plan for that.  Acceptable examples might include queries about the workplace culture or atmosphere, dress code, or where they see the company in five years.  I’ve always loved the idea of asking the interviewer THEIR favorite part of working for the company.  This is often a great way to learn more about what it might truly be like to work for this employer. 

While preparation is your greatest chance at success during the interview process, there are, of course, those crazy, off-the-wall questions that will come up.  I have heard of interviewers asking such things as: “What’s your favorite cereal and why?” and “If you were a superhero, what would your special power be?”  Another one to be prepared for: “What was the last book you read?”  Some of these are meant to see how you handle things on the spot, so try not to let them bother you too much.  There is really no way to prep for this, but just remind yourself to remain calm and take a moment to gather your thoughts before you answer.

A bad interview rarely results in a job offer, so control what you’re able.  Do your research, prepare your answers, and go in with confidence.  Next time we’ll talk about two other essential ingredients…the handshake and the follow-up.

Until then,

Kristie L. Cross