How to Answer "Why Do You Want This Job?"

Why do you want this job?

This is among the most commonly asked job interview questions. Like all other tough interview questions, it is one that you should prepare for before you meet the hiring manager. There are many ways to answer it, and many options may be running through your mind. Some possible reasons for wanting to get a job is so that you can pay off your debts. Or because someone you know is working for the company. Are these reasons good enough to impress the hiring manager?

Giving a compelling answer is a must. Next time you answer this question at a job interview, make sure you do not struggle. In this quick guide, we offer you ways on how to approach the question, along with job interview tips to help you craft your own answer to "Why do you want this job?" 

1. "As a big music fan, I got excited when I heard that you opened up an opportunity for your followers to become part of your development team."

What it says: You are enthusiastic to become part of the company.

A sincere compliment can go a long way during a job interview. For instance, say you are a user of the company's service and describe what caught your attention in particular. Use this as a springboard for expressing your eagerness to share ideas on how to make the experience better for other users.

A hiring manager often determines why do you want this job, and looks for someone who is interested in the job. It shows that he or she looks forward to playing a role in the organisation. With this approach, you have a better chance of standing out among other candidates who may talk about the salary, or worse, appear clueless as to what the company is about. 

2. "My ultimate goal is to become an editor-in-chief of a lifestyle magazine."

What it says: The position you are applying for aligns with your career development plan.

Show that you take career planning seriously, and even if you are only starting out, you want to be on the right path. Illustrate how the skills you would learn in the position of, say, an editorial assistant, would help you achieve your ultimate goal of becoming an editor-in-chief.

Expressing how the position relates to your future career goals also sends the message that you are possibly a good fit for the job. As someone who seeks to learn and grow in the role, hiring you can mutually benefit both you and the company. 

3. "Cooking is a passion instilledin me ever since I can remember, that's why I immediately grabbed the opportunity to apply as a chef."

What it says: You are passionate about the work related to the position.

Why do you want this job? When you talk about your hobbies and passions, you are talking about things that bring joy to you. It works to your advantage during a job interview when these are related to the position you are applying for. If you are applying for a culinary position, you can share specific stories about how you first discovered your love for cooking.

A hiring manager would most likely take notice of a candidate who would be happy working in the position being offered. By relating your own interests to what the job entails, you also show that you are committed to giving your best in performing the duties and responsibilities expected of the position. 

4. "I discovered that one of your company's goals is to improve people's lives by providing them with great careers. It's a cause that resonates with me and something I want to be part of."

What it says: The company's values and mission are similar to your own.

Having your own beliefs speaks volumes about a candidate. If you are applying for an HR role, it can be about helping people find a rewarding career. Talking about the company's values reveals that you made an effort to learn more about the organisation. Show that you find its mission worthy and want to be a part of it.

If you find a company that shares your ideals and visions, use this approach to get noticed. It shows you are on the side of the company. At the same time you can be a valuable ally as the company brings their goals into fruition. Just make sure to do thorough research ahead of time.

As a jobseeker, you will encounter many tough interview questions. Come up with the right technique and choosing the right approach can help you make a good impression. When preparing for the job interview, make a mental note to be flexible with your answers. In case the question is phrased differently, use this guide as a reference. You can opt to use one or a combination of these approaches to emphasise key points in your answers.

Now that you are well prepared for a job interview, it is time to update your Jobstreet profile. Search for #JobsThatMatter on our website and take the next step towards a career that brings you passion, purpose, and a sense of fulfilment. Add #WorkNow to let hirers know you are ready to start immediately. For more job interview tips and articles on how to level up your job search, visit our Career Resources Hub.

At JobStreet, we believe in bringing you #JobsThatMatter. As a Career Partner, we are committed to helping all jobseekers find passion and purpose in every career choice. And as the number 1 Talent Partner in Asia, we connect employers with the right candidates who truly make a positive and lasting impact on the organisation.
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