Why are you interested in this position?

+51 votes
asked Jun 11, 2018 in Career & Work by Kaylin (1,000 points)
edited Jul 21, 2018
How do I answer this question? I really need a different job that pays more and is closer to home. I have been over my current job for a while now. I don’t think these reasons are really the correct reason to give an employer though. What would be a good answer to this question?

3 Answers

+23 votes
answered Nov 3, 2018 by Emmanuel (730 points)
edited Dec 14, 2018

First of all, before you have your interview (and maybe even before you submit your application or resume), RESEARCH the company. If you really want a good change of pace from your current employment, look into the job or career you are seeking. If you know more about the employer and the company, not only will you know if trying to get a job there is going to work for you but, you will also have a foot in the door so to say. Employers love when you actually know what you are talking about when it comes to their business. Look into what they offer, what kind of work is involved, what kind of atmosphere will be surrounding you. Find out as much as you can about the company so you have an honest answer to this question when asked.

As you are researching this job, find out what they do and if you are skilled and able to work in this area. If you are not, you may want to re-think wanting the position in the first place. If you are, sell it!!!! Let the employer know what skills you have that match the job you are seeking. Try to tell them before they ask. This is a perfect way to answer your question! If you are able to do the work they need you to do, without extensive training, your prospective employer will be thrilled! Your skills in this area do not necessarily have to be work related; they could be situations in life that you have learned these skills.

Employers do not want someone that they will spend time and energy on who are just going to leave the position in a short time. As you are researching this employer and company, make sure this employment works well with your future goals in life. If it does, explain to your prospective employer why it does. Knowing that you will most likely be around for a while makes you more likely to get the position.

+4 votes
answered Sep 23, 2018 by Andreas (540 points)
edited Nov 13, 2018
"I know I can excel in this position. I am a team player and also work great individually. I work hard at everything I do and know how to follow the rules. I know these are things you require of your employees and I feel I would fit right in."

My answer was something like that, I guess. If you know what the company is about, that would be easier. Make them know you can do what the company expects of you.
+3 votes
answered Jul 3, 2018 by Whitney (360 points)
edited Jan 30, 2019
Why are you interested in this position? You need to let this company know why they want YOU for the position. When they ask why you are interested in them, you need to phrase it in such a way that actually makes them interested in you. You are right though! Your real answers will not work. Employers don’t want to know how much you hate the job you have right now. You can let them know that you are seeking employment closer to home, just don’t make this your biggest selling point. You need to sell yourself. Try to tell them how you can do the job (make sure you know exactly what the job is) and that you have the abilities and capabilities to do so. Make sure you tell them your abilities and your capabilities though!
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