How to Answer: Why should we hire you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Google job interview.
12. Why should we hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer will make efforts to separate unqualified candidates from top performers. And, they'll be able to identify top performers based not only on their candidate's experience and skills but also on their passion for the work they do, their integrity and character, and how thoroughly they've prepared for the role. They are asking this question to see if you have identified the qualities they are looking for in their target talent. As they state online, their employees, whom they call Googlers, take their responsibilities very seriously. They "listen carefully to others' views and opinions, collaborate with stakeholders," and they state that "co-creation is essential to belonging." So, after sitting with your work history for a moment, determine how these qualities apply to you, and how they qualify you as a Googler.
Written by Kevin Downey on February 4th, 2024
What You Need to Know
They describe their work environment as incredibly inclusive. "Only when everyone has not just a seat at the table, but the power to help shape it, can we build new structures that do not exclude. At Google, we are incorporating voices that challenge and enrich us as we co-create a workplace and world where we build bridges across communities and no one is othered."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 4th, 2024
How to Answer
Spend time learning everything you can about their people, their culture, their work environment, and how they take care of their employees. Read through their tips and tricks on navigating their interview process. "Align your skills and experience with the job description. Tie your work directly to the role qualifications. Be specific about projects you've worked on or managed. What was the outcome? How did you measure success? When in doubt, lean on the formula, 'accomplished [X] as measured by [Y], by doing [Z].' If you've had a leadership role, tell us about it. How big was the team? What was the scope of your work? If you're a recent university graduate or have limited work experience, include school-related projects or coursework that demonstrate relevant skills and knowledge. Keep it short. We don't have a length requirement, but concision and precision are key, take careful aim with your information. Tell us how you've made a difference and use data to back it up. Draw a direct line between your passion and our position. Let us see who you are a bit."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 4th, 2024
Experienced Example
"I live by that ancient proverb, 'the one who says the least is most worth listening to.' And, for the person who lives by that, it goes both ways. That person is, by nature, a great listener. This is one of the reasons I feel like I would serve as a great Googler. I listen carefully to other's views and opinions and carefully consider them before volunteering my thoughts. In many cases, I wait until I am asked before I volunteer something. I thrive in atmospheres that are collaborative by nature. Also, I am good at what I do, and that is because I love my work and have fun doing it. It never gets old when you're passionate about it. That doesn't mean I don't need breaks from my work. Of course, I do. I take breaks mainly because I want to recharge so I can get back to it and perform at my best. I could go on and on. But, aside from my track record, references, skills, and experience, it is my attitude, character, and passion that I feel makes me your ideal candidate."
Written by Kevin Downey on February 4th, 2024