The question Why do you want to work for this organization? appears in nearly every job interview and can be easily answered if you have thought about it beforehand. Learn more about the five best ways to answer this question and ace your interview with these helpful tips.
1.I have always wanted to work at Company
The good news about Why questions is that they’re broad enough that there is no bad way to answer them. The bad news is that even if there isn’t a bad way, it doesn’t mean there aren’t great ways. When answering Why Company? ask yourself these two questions: (1) What does Company do or produce, and (2) what does that have to do with me? Be careful not to focus too much on why you like Company itself; HR professionals will likely lose interest quickly and your job could be in jeopardy if they don’t understand your motivation behind wanting a job at their company.
2.Your company has an inspiring vision and mission
that’s why you applied. The interviewer wants to know that your goals match up with theirs and that you’re going to be an asset to their team. This interview question can often be intimidating, but it shouldn’t leave you flustered and stuttering; there are simple, smart answers that can set you apart from other candidates. Here are five great responses to Why do you want to work for us?
3. I like the products/services your company offers
If you are applying for a customer-facing position, saying that you like your potential employer’s products or services is a good way to demonstrate your interest in being associated with their brand. It shows confidence in your product/service knowledge as well. For example, if I was applying for a job at Nike, I would tell them that I have always been passionate about athletic apparel and footwear and then further explain how they specifically resonate with me. This is also a good opportunity to mention something specific about their products or services (or competitors) that resonates with you—make sure it aligns with what they are looking for!
4.I’m passionate about the problem you are solving, I can see myself being part of it.
When asked why you want to work for a particular company, it’s important that your answer can be traced back to how it will solve a problem. The interviewers will already know that you like or admire their company or product; now they are looking for evidence that you understand their mission and believe in their cause. The more closely aligned your goals are with those of your interviewer, especially on a deeper level, the better. If there is no apparent alignment, find out what motivates them and why they started doing what they are doing. Ask questions, demonstrate curiosity, and show passion. Your goal is not only to get a job but also make sure that it’s both personally fulfilling and contributes positively to society as well.
5.You have an amazing team, I know it will be a great experience working with them
You may not be in a position where you have any direct interactions with your future employer yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take time to learn about your potential teammates before an interview. A great way to put yourself ahead of other candidates is by showing your interest in those who will be part of your future workplace. By saying something like, I know it will be a great experience working with them, I can tell they have worked together for a long time and really enjoy each other’s company. It shows that you did research on their company and its employees and helps give insight into how well suited you are for each other. It also helps reaffirm what an incredible team they already are!
Conclusion
The next time you’re asked Why do you want to work here? have a thoughtful response prepared that showcases your best qualities. Tell them how their culture and core values align with your own professional goals, why their mission matters to you, and what separates them from other companies. Keep these tips in mind when planning your answer, so it effectively positions you as an asset and shows that yes—you really do want to work for them. And if possible, follow up with something like: Thanks!