How to Answer: How did you hear about this position?
22. How did you hear about this position?
The Goal
Interviewers often ask this question to job applicants in a pre-screen phone or video interview. They want to know which talent attraction strategies are delivering the best results. They also want to see if you have a genuine interest in pursuing the role rather than simply applying because the job posting came up. The goal of your response is to tell the interviewer how you became aware of the open position while expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
What to Avoid
Avoid sounding cavalier about the opportunity. For instance, saying, 'I've put in so many online job applications lately I can't even remember where I heard about this position!' will likely result in a job rejection.
Instead, you could say, 'I have been actively searching for suitable roles online using Indeed and LinkedIn. I believe it was Indeed that sent me the posting via email as a recommended job. I read the description, researched the company, and felt compelled to apply. I'm happy I did!'
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Pro Tip
If an employee of the hiring company referred you to the role, be sure to let the interviewer know. Hiring authorities often give preference to employee referrals since they are statistically a more successful hire.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
How to Answer
Start by explaining how you first heard about the job. The most common avenues for job discovery include:
- Employee referrals
- Online job boards
- Emails from job boards pushing out recommended job matches
- Searching on LinkedIn or other popular social media sites
- Visiting the company's careers page and browsing open jobs
- College job boards or alumni support services
Once you've identified how you heard about the job, briefly describe your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Answer Example
"I learned about this role from Indeed when searching for internship opportunities. The keywords that I used were 'recent graduate' and 'business development.' I was thrilled to see this opportunity come up and am eager to learn more while showing you how my skills can be a strong match for this internship."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Admin Example
"The position details were sent to me by a former colleague who knew that I was looking for a role within the oil and energy industry. I believe she saw your job posting on an industry-specific job board and felt that my skills and experiences were a strong fit. I am thankful for the opportunity to meet with you today to learn more about how I can add value to Company ABC."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Manager Example
"I was referred to this position by your Team Lead, John Doeadeer. He mentioned that Company ABC was searching externally for someone to fill this floor manager position, and he thought of me right away. I am glad he thought of me! The more I learn about this role and the organization, the more enthusiastic I feel about the opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Marketing Example
"A recruiter from ABC Recruitment firm approached me regarding this role. After meeting with her and reviewing all of the details, I knew this position was a fantastic fit for me, which is when I chose to apply."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Retail Example
"When shopping in the mall last weekend, I noticed the 'Now Hiring' sign in the store window. I came by the next day and dropped my resume off with your assistant manager. Thank you for seeing me so quickly! I'm eager to learn more about the position and how I can contribute to your team."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Sales Example
"I worked with one of Company ABC's clients on a major project a couple of months ago. The project manager recently mentioned that the organization was hiring a full-time sales manager. This PM knew that I was looking for career growth and a change. I am thrilled he thought of me for the role, and thank you for the opportunity to meet with you today."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Teacher Example
"I applied to School ABC shortly after relocating to this city. The school is just a few blocks from my home! The location is convenient, and I have heard great things about this school after getting to know a few members of your teaching community."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 8th, 2022
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Cindy's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Rachelle's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Ryan's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
I learned about this position through a referral from your team member. During a conversation, she mentioned that ABC Company was actively looking for a candidate to fill the lab assistant role and thought that my skills and experience would be an excellent fit for the position. Her recommendation inspired me to explore the opportunity further, and upon reviewing the job description and researching your organization, I became genuinely enthusiastic about the chance to work with your team. I am grateful for the referral and thrilled to be considered for this role."
Marcie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Jaymie's Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Marcie's Feedback