Interview Questions & Answers – Why do you want to work here?

In this exclusive article from Go Zambia Jobs we explain how you could prepare to answer the common interview question “Why do you want to work here?”.

Why do employers ask this question?

Employers ask this question because candidates who can demonstrate that they genuinely want to work for the employer will be more productive and more likely to contribute to the success of the organisation.

How do employers want you to answer this question?

Employers want you to demonstrate 3 things in your answer. These 3 things are as follows:

1. You have researched the organisation
2. You understand the requirements of the role
3. You are enthusiastic about the role and the organisation

How can you successfully answer this question?

Before the interview spend time researching the company – its structure, mission, products, services, culture etc. You can find useful information on the company website, on the internet and in the media. You should also pay close attention to the job advertisement as this will also provide you with lots of useful information such as:

• Skill requirements (a particular skill, for example report writing, financial analysis)
• Academic requirements (Grade 12 school certificate, diploma, degree and/or professional qualifications etc)
• Knowledge requirements (subject, industry, function, task, environment etc)
• Experience requirements (# of years experience in a particular job, sector or level)
• Personality requirements (hard-working, courteous, excellent communicator etc)

When you have done your research try answering this question to a friend or relative. Avoid simply regurgitating everything you have read, instead focus on 2 or 3 main topics. Try to focus on matching your skills with the employers requirements (rather than talking about what they company can offer you or what you can offer the company).

Example answer

Below is an example of an answer to this question:

“Through my 3 year degree course in Information Technology, I developed a passion for networking and installing new computers. Recently, I was able to put his passion into practice by helping a number of charities to update their computer networks. I understand that your company values Information Technology and has a progressive outlook on the use of technology in the workplace. I therefore think that my skills and experience would be a great fit for the values and requirements of your organisation.”

Conclusion

This is a really good question to be asked during an interview. Job interviews are a of competition with candidates competing against each other to be offered the job. Any interview question that gives you an opportunity to show your knowledge, enthusiasm and suitability must be taken. If you understand why employers ask this question and prepare an answer you should significantly increase your chances of success.

Top 10 Interview Questions & Answers

You can find more amazing interview advice at: Top 10 Interview Questions & Answers

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