How To Answer “Why Should We Hire You?” | [Examples Inside]

You’ve finally reached the end of the job interview, and the notorious question “Why should we hire you?” comes into play. For most job seekers, this is one of the most nerve-wracking questions. You don’t want to sound overly arrogant or like you’re giving a sales pitch, but you also want the hiring manager to know you’re definitely the right person for the job.

If the alarm bells sound every time you hear this question, don’t worry — you’re not alone. But you need to prepare yourself before you step into the room and start answering endless job interview questions.

Luckily, I’m here to help. Below you will find everything you need to know about answering the “Why should we hire you” question. I will also be sharing some essential info, such as what not to do.

Ready to nail your next interview? Let’s go.

Table of Contents

How To Answer “Why Should We Hire You?”

I hate to say it but saying “Because I need money” is not the right way to answer someone asking, “Why should I hire you?”. You need to be specific and stand out from the rest of the job seekers. Basically, when the hiring manager asks you why they should hire you, you need to “sell” yourself. But how?

There are a few things that you should consider adding to your short speech about why you’re the very best candidate for the job.

Explain your skills and past experience relevant to the job description. Did you increase sales for your last job? Do you have 30 years of experience relevant to this job? Do you have proven communication skills or appropriate schooling? Now is the time to emphasize your skill set, track record, personality traits, and work experience that make you the top choice.
Prove that you’re an asset to the company. Explain to the recruiter why you are the best person for the job. Share your career goals and how they correlate with company goals. Emphasize that you produce high-quality work, possess leadership skills, and aren’t afraid to be a team player. Remember — being an asset to the company goes beyond being a great worker. You need to be a top-notch co-worker with teamwork in mind, too.
Show why hiring you will help the company overall. Is the company currently dealing with some issues, such as slowed sales? Show how you can generate new sales and improve the company. By the end, the recruiter should feel like giving you the job offer and hiring you will be valuable and helpful to the company.
Be excited. Being able to perform the job requirements is one thing. Being excited about the job is another. If you can show your enthusiasm for the position, it might make you stand out from the pack.
What makes you unique? You know yourself better than anyone. In fact, the recruiter doesn’t know you at all. They have no idea what makes you unique or any of the unique skills you possess that would be handy in the job you’re seeking. Now is the time to explain anything unique about yourself that sets you apart from the other qualified candidates.

Tips For Giving The Best “Why Should We Hire You?” Answer

Now you understand the “basics” when answering this panic-inducing interview question. But why stop there? If you’re ready to put an end to your job search and land this new career opportunity, consider these tips.

#1. Practice Your Answers In Private

Being unprepared for the job interview? Not a good look. And don’t think that the recruiter won’t be able to tell. The job of the hiring manager is precisely that — to hire. They have interviewed hundreds of applicants, and trust me — they will know when you’re not prepared.

So how can you make sure you’re ready and confident in your interview answers? As the famous phrase says, “Practice makes perfect.” And it’s true. Research common interview questions and prepare your sample answers. Practice in front of the mirror or with a friend or family member. When you enter the hiring manager’s office, you will be more than ready to tackle any interview questions that come your way.

#2. Always Remain Confident

Have you ever talked to someone about something and believed everything they said just because they were overly confident about the topic? Yeah, confidence goes a long way. Even though you might not have all of the required soft skills and experience listed on the job posting, it doesn’t mean you can’t land the job. Walking in with the utmost confidence shows the recruiter that you’re ready and prepared for everything — even if you might be lacking in a few other departments.

In general, confidence will be one of the most significant traits looked for when a company is searching for the “ideal candidate.” After all, they want someone who won’t be shy or nervous about diving into the position. Remain confident throughout the job interview to give you an edge on the competition.

#3. Speak Clearly & Concisely

Mumbling? Uncertainty? Quietness? There are big no-nos for delivering questions and answers during interviews. If the hiring manager can’t understand you, then you’re likely not going to end up with the job (for obvious reasons — do I really need to explain why?)

This is another reason why practicing before your interview is so critical. Your friend or family member will be able to inform you if you’re talking too quietly or too loudly. You can adjust your tone before walking into the interview room, saving you (and the recruiter) tons of hassle.

#4. Research The Job Role Before The Actual Interview

If you walk into a job interview and don’t know anything about the job role or company, go ahead and turn around and walk right out. You will not go far in the interview process if you show that you care less about the job. Not only that, not knowing the job role you’re applying for could land you in a position or company you’re unhappy with. Why waste everyone’s time?

Research the job thoroughly before the interview. Visit the company website and social media profiles. Understand the ins and outs of the role and pay attention to the company culture. Think it’s a great match? Then don’t hesitate to send over your application and cover letter.

#5. Ask The Hiring Manager Questions About The Role

Again, it’s all about knowing everything you can possibly know about the job role and deciding whether or not you’re a good match. You want to be full of knowledge to ensure you possess the necessary skills to succeed. Asking the hiring manager follow-up questions about the job also shows your interest, which any recruiter will agree is a plus.

#6. Be Personable

When it comes to landing a new job, it’s more than just relevant skills, technical skills, and experience. It comes down to your people skills, too. If you can be personable, the interviewee will feel comfortable and confident with you. Always remain personable throughout the interview.

#7. Show Interest

Be eager about this new potential job prospect! Show the hiring manager that this is more than just a 9-5 job to make money to pay the bills. Show them that you’re actually interested in the position and excited to start. The more you show enthusiasm, the more the recruiter will be enthused to hire you.

6 Best “Why Should We Hire You?” Answers For 2022

You have the interview tips necessary to answer the question “Why should we hire you?”. But if you’re still a little unsure of what to say, consider one of these great answers.

Based on the information you’ve given me today and the research I’ve performed on the company, it sounds like your company is looking for (enter position and job role here, such as sales manager). Well, at my previous job, I successfully (list specific goals or achievements, such as increased sales or productivity and how you accomplished these goals). I will bring this same innovation to your company, with success being a top priority.
I am confident that my experience (add job role and responsibilities here) will help me succeed in this new setting. Not only was I successful at (list specific goals once more), but I thoroughly enjoyed what I was doing, and I am thrilled to continue in this role.
Your job posting stated that you needed someone with (specific skills, either technical or personal). During my time volunteering at (location), I learned to develop these skills, and I am confident they will be of value to your company.
As a recent graduate, I am well aware that I do not have career experience in this field. However, I successfully obtained (enter GPA, accomplishments, degrees, etc., relevant to the job). This proves that I am eager to succeed in this role, and I am a blank slate that can be molded to suit your company.
Finding the ideal candidate is not easy, and I do not envy you. However, I hope my responses to your questions show just how much I want to be a part of this company. I hope I have explained clearly my experience (in said job role) and would be honored to join and grow with this thriving company.
I understand that I may lack experience in this field, but I am passionate about this role and a quick learner. I have proven my ability to learn new skills by (have a few examples ready).

What Not To Do When Answering “Why Should We Hire You?”

Don’t solely focus on what you should say. Knowing what not to say may be even more critical. That said, here are some of the essential things to avoid when answering this mind-boggling question.

#1. Don’t Give A Memorized/Generic Response

You are a human, not a robot. Hiring managers don’t want to listen to a memorized response that isn’t personal or endearing. While it’s a-okay to practice answering this question, it shouldn’t sound like you’re reading from a prompter.

#2. Don’t Come Off As Arrogant Or Overconfident

You have heard this one before: there is a big difference between confidence and cockiness. Nobody wants to listen to someone arrogant or overconfident, including recruiters. Ditch the cocky attitude and focus on being confident in who you are and why you should be chosen for the job.

#3. Don’t Speak For Too Long

Let’s face it — hiring managers will interview a ton of people. Their time is just as valuable as yours. Going on and on and on with your response will be annoying. Not only that, but the recruiter will likely lose interest somewhere along the way. If they lose interest in what you’re talking about, they’re probably going to lose interest in hiring you altogether. Keep it short and to the point.

#4. Don’t Tell A Lie

Honesty is key. If you tell a lie during your final response to an interview question, it’s not going to look good. Don’t start on a negative foot, such as being labeled a “liar.” Dishonesty is an easy way to get your name taken out of the “potential employee” pool.

And hey, don’t think you need to lie to make yourself sound better. Even if you’re not the most qualified person for the job, honesty goes a long way. The recruiter will respect your honesty and may even give you a shot.

#5. Don’t Name Too Many Reasons

So we established that you are not, in fact, a robot. You are also not a superhero. There is no reason for you to endlessly describe why you are the best person for the job. Allow a few “top” reasons to stick out so the interviewer can remember them. Otherwise, it’s going to get lost in translation (and you may end up looking arrogant).

The Bottom Line

Nobody likes the “Why should we hire you” question. It’s a bit uncomfortable and difficult to respond to. But here’s the takeaway: with the techniques, tips, and example answers I’ve provided, I’m confident that you will be able to put together a response you’re happy with. Just make sure you don’t go overboard or memorize a grand speech beforehand. Relax, be yourself, and most importantly, be honest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to answer “What is your best quality?”

This is another question that should be considered before the job interview. It’s another nerve-wracking question that can catch you off guard. Research the job you’re applying for to see which skills and qualities they’re looking for. Then, choose two or three very specific ones to reply with.

For example, if you’re applying to be a secretary, don’t say, “I’m good at answering phones.” Be more specific. Perhaps you could say, “I have impeccable communication skills and speak clearly and concisely, which is imperative for answering phone calls.”

How to answer “What are your long-term goals?”

This question is essential for a few reasons. For one, having long-term goals shows that you have a plan in action. This is a positive trait to recruiters as they likely aren’t looking for someone that lacks goals, motivation, and direction.

Secondly, a recruiter will be interested in your long-term goals aligning with the job role. For example, you could be applying at a dental office as a receptionist. Perhaps you’re taking online classes to become a medical biller, office manager, or assistant. This shows that you will likely stay at the company and move up, which will benefit you and the company.

How to answer “Why are you the best candidate for this position?”

This is another question that goes hand-in-hand with “Why should we hire you.” Typically, an interviewer will only ask one of these questions rather than both. If they opt for the “Why are you the best candidate for this position?” question, you should be prepared to answer it. But how? Again, it’s all about explaining your necessary skills, experience, etc., related to the job role.

How to answer “What are your weaknesses?”

Nobody wants to share their weaknesses with a hiring manager. Otherwise, they may end up missing out on the opportunity. So, how on earth are you supposed to respond to this typical interview question? The best way is to turn the negative into a positive (if you’ve ever seen “The Office,” you will know exactly what I’m talking about!). Also, try and find a negative that won’t impact your job performance.

Here are a few examples:

I focus too much on small details. This shows that you are detail-oriented, which is excellent for most positions.
I work too hard. Being a hard worker is important, but so is making time to relax and have fun. Regardless, hiring managers will enjoy hearing this.
I find it challenging to say “no.” Does this mean that you will always take on extra responsibilities? Yes. Should you? Not exactly. But knowing that you will almost always say “yes” is an excellent sign to recruiters.
I’m not great at public speaking. Unless your role depends on it, this isn’t a huge deal. There is likely someone who has the position of public speaking, in which case it won’t affect your job performance.
I’m too hard on myself. A bit of a perfectionist? That’s not necessarily a bad thing.
I tend to talk a lot. As long as you get your work done, it shouldn’t be too big of an issue for employers.