Why do you want to work for our company?

"I've been longing to get into the tech startup space for quite a while. I have researched the many employer options in our city and chose to apply here because you are disrupting the market through your latest SaaS offering. I have spoken to a couple of your current employees, and they mention that the supportive culture here is top-notch, and that comes through very well in your brand story. For these reasons and many more, I believe that working here would be an incredible experience as I grow my career in tech."

"Your company has an impressive reputation when it comes to developing new products and updating current products to remain competitive. I would be thrilled to learn from your leadership team and be in a support role for them. Also, your company is very involved in the community. I have seen your involvement in the form of warm clothing drives in the winter to benefit the homeless to financing food programs for underprivileged school children. There are many reasons why I want to work here, but these are the most significant from my perspective."

"I want to work for a medium-sized company with a family-like feel, just like yours. I have always worked in large corporate environments where I am a number, not an individual. This 'corporate giant' environment made it difficult for me to flourish as a manager and a leader. I appreciate the workplace culture you have cultivated and the fact that I could contribute to this industry in a more meaningful way."

"I have been looking for an opportunity in a high-growth startup for quite some time. I see that your company values its people and has a culture centered around achievement, growth, and accountability. The energy here is contagious, which makes me even more excited about the opportunity."

"You are the undeniable giants in the industry, and I have been planning a career with your company since I started my BComm in Retail Management. Today, with a completed degree, I am educated and ready to accelerate my career in retail with your esteemed brand. There are so many growth and travel opportunities here, and that truly excites me."

"Your school district is one of the top-rated in the state of California when it comes to extracurricular opportunities for students. Also, your district focuses on immersing students in tech-based learning, which I believe is the cornerstone of modern education. This opportunity would be extraordinary for me as my passions in teaching include tech breakthroughs and learning through the joy of sport and teamwork. Here, I could build professionally, and this city would be an ideal place to call home for many years to come."

"One year ago, I decided to work towards a new position and began researching local marketing agencies that would be a good fit. Since then, I have had your agency on my shortlist and have been waiting for the right opportunity to become available. I am beyond excited about your Marketing Director position. I am ready to leverage my skills in digital and ad-based content in unique ways that will benefit your wide range of clients."

There are two common mistakes to avoid when answering this question. First, avoid misunderstanding the question. For instance, 'Why do you want to work here?' is often confused with, 'Why should we hire you?'

Second, avoid giving a cliche response. One example of a cliche response is, 'I want to work here because this is my dream job.' The issue with a typical response like this is, although it's enthusiastic, it is also very vague. This answer is all about you, the candidate, and shows no real value to the company. What's missing is the 'why' behind your excitement, and details surrounding how you'll contribute to the company.

Recruiters and hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications per job. If you are lucky enough to land an interview, you must show significant effort and research the opportunity. While your passion and excitement for the job are essential, it's always good to have some hard facts about why you want the job opportunity.

Prepare for this question by:
- Researching the company
- Highlighting a unique talking point
- Showing enthusiasm for the company's growth or recent efforts
- Discussing the company's efforts and success and how they tie into your career goals
- Mentioning specific details of how you will contribute once hired

When you craft your response, keep in mind that the interviewer wants to see evidence of a few factors:

- You have enthusiasm and interest in the role and company
- You believe in the company's mission and values
- You are ready to make a specific contribution
- You see a strong match between the job and your career goals

While your passion and excitement for the job are essential, it's always good to prepare some hard facts. For instance saying, 'I have heard great things about your company, and I know I would be an excellent fit for this job' is not very specific. Instead, try to find recent news or releases related to the company's accomplishments. Mention specifically how those accomplishments made an impression on you. Be sure to close your statement with an expression of pure enthusiasm.

Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.

Show more answers Create a free account to add your own answer →