Many people submit one job application after another. Is it also your case? Job search is a game of numbers, and we just benefit from the opportunities modern technologies and online job boards provide us. It’s easy to apply for yet another job offer when we can do it with few clicks of the mouse…
However, if you are serious about your application, if you really want to work for a certain company, you should know WHY. And you can bet that they will ask about it. In this article I will explain how you should answer this interview question, and I will also show you 8 sample answers. Enjoy!
The truth does not always matter
At the end of the day, we need to have a job, and earn money. In most cases it is the primary reason why people apply for jobs, especially if we talk about manual labor and entry-level positions in retail or administrative. Employers should not expect (and most of them do not expect) you to apply for a job only with their company.
It would be a stupid move on your side (betting everything on one card, waiting for a phone call which may never come). But once they interview you for a job, you should somehow recognize them. Tell them why they are special–in which way, and for you. Whether true or not doesn’t matter in an interview.
What is more, when we speak about this particular question, even the most skilled interviewers will find it hard to tell if your answer is honest or not. Therefore you can say whatever you want, while trying to improve your chances of getting hired at the end.
How to answer the question
A good answer is a specific one. Research the website of the company, check their reviews on Google, follow their social media activity. Try to find things that you like about them. It can be the company culture, their vision, goals, benefits they offer for their employees, their product portfolio, etc.
And if you can not find anything to praise them for, you can always point out things such as a good traffic connection to the place, personal recommendation you got from a friend, or simply that the shifts and working patterns suit you perfectly.
* Do not forget to check also: How to overcome interview nerves – Anxiety can kill your chances in an interview. Learn how to overcome it.
Sample answers to “why do you want to work for us”
I like the philosophy of your company. To help local community and actively participate in the social sector is something that attracted me to your offer. I’d be proud to work for a company that follows such values.
I have read references from your employees online. People seem to be satisfied in your company, they seem to grow professionally here. What is more, your office is just ten minutes walking distance from my apartment. These are the two main reasons why I want to work for you, and not for someone else in the city.
The system of benefits you offer to your employees is excellent. You reward the best people generously, and that is exactly the model I am looking for, since I want to be one of the best salespeople in the company. What is more, I really like your products, and I am also your customer.
The list of working duties suits me perfectly. I have already worked on a similar position at XYZ company, and I can handle the things you do here easily, and with great precision. I’d like to continue my career in this field, and that’s why I decided to apply with you.
My goal is to make a career in a big international company. I have read a lot about your business, and considering that you are a leader in the field, and that there are so many career growth options with you, I was really motivated to apply for this job. On the top of that, I have read amazing things about your training program, and I am eager to learn a lot of things in the company.
I use your products everyday, and I consider them good quality products. Honestly, I have only positive associations when it comes to your brand, and that is why I decided to apply with you.
I am a musician, I play various instruments, and music is my passion. Really can’t imagine a better job than selling musical instruments, and the product selection in your store is just breathtaking.
This company has been great one day, but now you struggle. I like challenges, and I believe to have abilities to bring you back to the top where you belong. That’s why I went and applied for this particular managerial role.
This is my first job application, and I was looking for a place where I can learn a lot, and grow professionally. I wanted to work for people who are not afraid to hire young talent and help them grow. I identified your company as such a place, and decided to apply.
* Idea for You: You can also download all sample answers in a one-page long PDF, and practice your interview answer to this question anytime later:
Conclusion and next steps
Though most people apply for a job with various companies, and do not have a favorite place for work, you should try to convince the interviewers that their company is your first choice, your favorite place.
Compliment them for the work their do, tell them why they are special. Help them to feel good about their work, help them to feel good in an interview with you… If you manage to do that, your chances to sign a new job contract will improve immediately.
Most importantly, learn also how to answer other tough questions you may face in your interview:
- What are your salary expectations? – Ready to get what you deserve? Learn how to estimate your negotiation power, and how to present your salary expectations in an interview in order to secure the best possible offer.
- Interview questions for different job titles – Questions differs in interviews for various jobs. Pick your position from the list and learn exactly what to expect once you meet the employer.
- What challenges are you looking for in your new role? 7 sample answers to this interesting interview question.
