When you’re preparing for an interview, often there are a lot of nerves involved and you might not feel as confident as you’d like. However, preparing to answer the question, “Why are you interested in this position” is a good start, and can set the tone for the rest of the interview. Some people may think that it’s a useless question to ask, but it should be noted that the employer has very good reasons for asking it. So let’s explore how you can go about preparing to answer this all-important question.
Why do employers ask “Why are you interested in this position?”
For the person hiring it is important that questions like this are answered truthfully so they can see if you’ll be suitable for the job. They need to make sure that the person they hire understands the role they’re applying for and that they’ll be able to excel and perform to the best of their ability. By your answer, they can see if you’d fit in with the company and its values and if your goals align with theirs. They want to see if you will contribute to the company and its current employees in a positive way.
Do some research
By doing a little research regarding the company and position you’re interviewing for, you’ll get more of an idea as to whether it’s something you can see yourself doing every day. This will also prepare you for any other questions that may be asked. If you know exactly what the position entails, you’ll also know which of your professional skills you should highlight in your answers. See the opportunities that could arise with this new job and discuss those with the employer interviewing you. Show them that you’re well aware of what’s expected of you and that you’re excited about being part of that.
Focus on the position you’re applying for
When asked this question, don’t base your answer on your complaints about your prior or current position, or why it wasn’t or isn’t fulfilling. Rather focus on the positives of your potentially new position and what you can bring to the table. Make it known that what you’re looking for is not just any job, but this particular job. By doing this, you will portray professionalism and it’ll communicate a sense of confidence. You should also express some enthusiasm towards the company and what they stand for. By having done your research, you will be able to talk about some key factors that were stand-outs for you about the company, and why you feel that you’re a good fit.
Communicate your career goals
The reason you’re applying for this job should be to advance your career. By sharing your career goals and how this job fits in with that, it will indicate to the employer that you’re serious about this position. It will show that should you get the job, you would give your best in order to achieve your goals. In so doing, they’ll see that you’re worth investing in and that you’d be an asset to the company.
What’s most important is that you prepare well for the interview, so they can see that not only would you take the position seriously but that you’d excel at it too. Do your research, be confident and that job is yours!
