Many job seekers are drilled to think that with the right papers
doors will automatically open for them. It's one thing to have great papers and
another to sell yourself.
What is the right way to answer the interview question, ‘why should we hire you and not the two or three candidates seated outside?’ This is another broad interview question that can take you down the wrong road unless you've done some thinking ahead of time. This question is purely about selling yourself. Think of yourself as the product.
What is the right way to answer the interview question, ‘why should we hire you and not the two or three candidates seated outside?’ This is another broad interview question that can take you down the wrong road unless you've done some thinking ahead of time. This question is purely about selling yourself. Think of yourself as the product.
Why should the customer buy?
1.
The wrong track: Joyce answers by saying,
"Because I need and want a job." That's nice, but the bottom line
here is, "What can you do for us?"
Marion says, "I'm a hard worker and really want to work for this company." The majority of people think of themselves as hard workers -- and why this company?
Marion says, "I'm a hard worker and really want to work for this company." The majority of people think of themselves as hard workers -- and why this company?
2.
The right track: Tom's answer to this question is,
"Because I'm a good fit for the position." Getting warmer, but more
details, please.
Edith answers, "I have what it takes to solve problems and do the job." This is the best answer so far. Expand on this, and you've got it.
Edith answers, "I have what it takes to solve problems and do the job." This is the best answer so far. Expand on this, and you've got it.
Here are a few pointers:
·
Develop a sales statement: The more detail you give, the better
your answer will be. This is not a time to talk about what you want. Rather, it
is a time to summarize your accomplishments and relate what makes you unique. The
bottom line of this question is, "What can you
do for this company?"
Start by looking at the job description or posting. What is the employer stressing as requirements of the job? What will it take to get the job done? Make a list of those requirements.
Next, do an inventory to determine what you have to offer as a fit for those requirements. Think of two or three key qualities you have to offer that match those the employer is seeking. Don't underestimate personal traits that make you unique; your energy, personality type, working style and people skills are all very relevant to any job.
Start by looking at the job description or posting. What is the employer stressing as requirements of the job? What will it take to get the job done? Make a list of those requirements.
Next, do an inventory to determine what you have to offer as a fit for those requirements. Think of two or three key qualities you have to offer that match those the employer is seeking. Don't underestimate personal traits that make you unique; your energy, personality type, working style and people skills are all very relevant to any job.
·
The sales pitch: you are the solution: From the list of
requirements, match what you have to offer and merge the two into a summary
statement. This is your sales pitch. It should be no more than two minutes long
and should stress the traits that make you unique and a good match for the job.
Example: "From our conversations, it sounds as if you're looking for someone to come in and take charge immediately. It also sounds like you are experiencing problems with some of your database systems. With my seven years of experience working with financial databases, I have saved companies thousands of shillings by streamlining systems. My high energy and quick learning style enable me to hit the ground and size up problems rapidly. My colleagues would tell you I'm a team player who maintains a positive attitude and outlook. I have the ability to stay focused in stressful situations and can be counted on when the going gets tough. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."
Example: "From our conversations, it sounds as if you're looking for someone to come in and take charge immediately. It also sounds like you are experiencing problems with some of your database systems. With my seven years of experience working with financial databases, I have saved companies thousands of shillings by streamlining systems. My high energy and quick learning style enable me to hit the ground and size up problems rapidly. My colleagues would tell you I'm a team player who maintains a positive attitude and outlook. I have the ability to stay focused in stressful situations and can be counted on when the going gets tough. I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."
