Tough Interview Questions – Part II
There are countless unpredictable questions designed to stump a candidate, but there are also some you can prepare for. Here is a second common example that presents a challenge to many.
Why should I hire you?
A tough question for the naturally modest person, this question truly makes you sell yourself as the perfect candidate. And that’s a good thing. Here is an opportunity to say why you think you are a great fit: embrace this question with a positive attitude and make the most of your answer – this is not the time to be modest.
The tricky part of answering the ‘why should I hire you’ question is to not brag about your skills. Arrogance is not an attractive personality trait, and it may turn the interviewer off. Instead of listing every good quality you have, reference the skills and requirements of the job and show how you are a good match for the position. Everything you say should be relevant to the specific job. Here are some tips to make the most of this question:
- Show you paid close attention to the job posting, and were listening to the interviewer if they described it further by paraphrasing certain requirements, and how you fulfill them. Is experience with a particular machine or software an asset for this job? Mention that you have this skill. Is teamwork important? Give an example of how you work well with others.
- Reveal what you know about the company values and how well you will fit into that environment. (You did research the company, right?)
- Showing you respect the company and truly want to work there is key. A candidate who is genuinely excited about the position will get the job over a person who seems apathetic towards the role and company.
If you are asked ‘Why should I hire you?’ don’t think of the question as a personal attack, or a suggestion that you aren’t the right person. Take it as an opportunity to market yourself as the best possible answer to their job posting.
