This is often the last question you will be asked in an interview. Prepare for it. This is your chance to restate the skills you possess that are most relevant to the position and to summarize your other qualities that make you the perfect person for the job. Outline your answer before you go in, so that you can answer clearly, concisely, and with confidence.
Your answer should be short and to the point. It should reflect your professional background as it relates to current needs and problems of the position. Review the job description and tell how you are the right person for the job by matching up your skill set with each bullet point of the job description.
In formulating your answer, be sure to address these areas:
1. Determine their goals for the position.
This should come up during your research into the company and the position. If possible, talk to others who work for the company. If you are unclear on this point, include it in the questions you ask at the interview and be prepared to incorporate it into your answer.
2. Show you have the skills needed for the job.
Based on the goals you have identified in step one, determine how your skills and experience support those goals. If necessary, refer back to your list of skills.
3. Articulate shared values.
Again, this should come up in your research. Look at the company’s mission statement and regular business practices. Explain why these are in line with your own values and goals.
4. State your interest in the position.
Be enthusiastic about the opportunity to work for this company and/or within a certain team. Be sure that the interviewer is clear about the fact that you want this job.
The most important aspect of this exercise is to make you comfortable in identifying and articulating the skills you possess. Even with a prepared answer, it is important to be flexible within the script itself. You may need to modify the specifics based on the situation.
If an important issue comes up during the interview, be prepared to adapt your answer accordingly. For instance, if the interviewer stresses the need for a certain skill, you will want to address that, even if it was not one of the skills that you included on your resume.
Best answer to Why Should I Hire You?
1. “I have the qualifications you are looking for (briefly list them). I’m a team player, I take direction, and I have the desire to be successful.”
2. “Three reasons: I meet deadlines. I deliver what I promise. As a result, I’ve always made my managers look good.”
