Job Interview: How to Answer ‘Why Do You Want to Work Here?’ 

Job seekers across the world still stumble through job interviews, relying on the traditional approach. In today’s digital age, we have access to so much information that there’s no reason why job applicants shouldn’t come into an interview completely prepared. Yet so many still fail to prepare for the simplest task of learning how to answer “Why do you want to work here?” 

This blog post will show you how to answer this important question and will provide easy-to-follow tips to help you make the best impression during your next job interview.  

Prepare to Awe the Interviewer!  

Thoroughly research the company leading up to the interview and review your findings. Treat it like you’re studying for a test so that you are prepared. If you do this one thing, you’ll gain an immediate advantage over half of your competitors. Because under the traditional approach (the one most people still swear by), this is not pushed.  

Don’t forget to include the job description in your research as well. You need to memorize it so that you understand exactly what the employer needs. Prepare a list of past work that you can discuss that directly relates to the exact job.  

When you go into an interview understanding the company’s values and its mission, you’ll be able to answer questions in a way that showcases that you’re a match for the job.  

Of course, you’ll also want to practice how to answer the question, “Why do you want to work here?” But it’s important that you prepare thoroughly because you’ll get asked other unique questions.  

The main goal of an interviewer is to find the best fit for their company. It’s not all about skillset, but whether an applicant is the right fit for the company’s culture.  

Finally, another issue that a lot of people don’t bring up is salary. Always prepare to discuss your monetary expectations. I know that this is an incredibly uncomfortable topic for some people but it’s important that both sides have the same expectations before moving forward.  

Prepare a List of Questions to Ask the Interviewer 

A job interview provides an opportunity for you to ask questions about the company so use this to your advantage. When you ask the right questions, you’re also showing initiative. An interview expects applicants to ask questions so those who do not are going to lose an opportunity to impress them. Here are a few sample questions: 

• Are there any daily requirements that are not listed in the job description? 

• What does the benefits package look like? 
• How would you describe the culture of the company? 

Lay Out a Plan for the Day of the Interview 

Your goal is to arrive about 15 minutes early so that you can get a lay of the land so to speak. Map out your route so that you arrive in this timeframe. Use your extra time to pay attention to dynamics in the workplace.  

Most people will tell you to make a great first impression but it’s also important to pay attention to the first impression that the company makes on you. I’ve heard stories from so many people who were involved in unprofessional interviews. Then they got the job and regretted taking it. Chances are if the interview is conducted in an unprofessional way, then the company will be run in a way that reflects that.  

Always speak about previous jobs with respect. Nothing shoots up a red flag faster than a job applicant complaining negatively about a previous job. Just don’t do it.  

Above all else, be authentic. Hiring agents can see right through false personas and they are going to take everything said with a grain of salt. So just be yourself and let the pieces fall where they will. If you’re a good fit for the job, then you’ll make a great impression being yourself. This includes being completely honest when answering questions. Embellishment is tempting but unnecessary.   

Never go to an interview with a drink or your phone. Your phone should be shut off and your drink should be left in the car. If you need hydration, do it before the interview. It’s considered unprofessional to go into an interview with a drink. Only bring essential items to the meeting. Your notes and resume are the only items you need to bring.  

How to Answer “Why do you Want to Work Here?” 

First, you need to understand the meaning behind this question. The interviewer is trying to determine who is best suited to the company culture and its values. This isn’t found from skillsets and datasheets. It’s from personality. They are listening carefully for an answer that proves you did your homework and that you care about the job. Show them that you truly care and that you didn’t just send in a resume just because there was a job opening.  

An answer that reflects the values of the company while also showcasing your skillset will get the best results. So plan your answer to this question ahead of time. Make sure you mention how the company values and its mission match your goals. Then tie that answer back to your skillset. It shouldn’t be longer than two or three sentences.  

I recommend that you practice answering this question in front of a mirror before the interview since it’s so important.  

What to Do After the Interview 

The interview isn’t the end of your journey. You’ll want to give yourself the best chance of success moving forward after the interview. Always end the interview by asking the hiring agent what happens next. Ask how they plan to contact you. In most cases, it will be by email but some companies still call the candidates.  

In any case, when you are finished with your interview, send the hiring agent a personalized letter to thank them for their time. Get their contact information or a business card when you are at their office so that you know where to send the letter. You’ll want to send it as quickly as possible so if you interviewed in the morning, send it that same afternoon but if you interviewed late in the afternoon, then you’re better off sending it the following morning.  

The Bottom Line 

At the end of the day, mindset is still going to be your most important skill. Visualizing success before, during, and after an interview will boost your performance. So on the days leading up to the interview, try to visualize positive interactions with the hiring agent. This is especially true if you have a habit of feeling anxious when meeting with people.  

Don’t fall into the trap of believing that this job is your only hope. That puts way too much pressure on it and will cause you to go into the interview with an aura of desperation.  

Just remember that learning how to answer the question “why do you want to work here” is not the only aspect of an interview. It’s an important question that deserves preparation, but don’t let yourself get caught up on only this question. Follow all of the tips outlined in this blog post to make sure that you give yourself the best chance of success.