How to Answer: Why should we hire you?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Senior Project Manager job interview.
37. Why should we hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Self-promotion can be uncomfortable even for senior project managers who are used to being in the spotlight, but interviewers learn a lot from your answer. Your response translates to your ability to balance confidence with humility and influence others. This question is about so much more than simply stating why you're a great fit for the role, so plan accordingly and prepare a great response in advance.
Written by Karrie Day on January 29th, 2024
Remember To
Remember to listen carefully and observe the body language of your interviewer during your conversation. As a senior project manager, you should be an expert at active listening. Use your expertise to your benefit to pick up on clues that will help you identify needs that are not explicitly stated within the job description. Demonstrating that your skills go beyond their stated needs is a great way to stand out from the competition.
Written by Karrie Day on January 29th, 2024
1st Answer Example
"You should hire me because my background and experience are aligned with your industry, the types of projects I will be managing, and the client base you serve. I feel I will be able to add value immediately while working to come up to speed quickly on the details of the projects I would manage.
Additionally, you mentioned that the team is currently struggling with some personality conflict issues. I am a trained facilitator and I have formal experience in diffusing conflict. I am skilled at serving as a bridge to help opposing sides find a way forward and I have a strong record of turning this type of situation around into a high-performance environment. I feel confident I can help your teams thrive and meet their project goals successfully."
Written by Karrie Day on January 29th, 2024
2nd Answer Example
"You should hire me because, in addition to meeting all of the required and preferred qualifications, I have over 4 years of experience working with several of your main clients. I have valuable relationships there that will add value to the projects I would be working to manage.
I also resonate with the values of your company and the team culture you described. Like you, I am passionate about challenging the teams I manage to be innovative. I have a track record of solving project problems with creativity and agility and I feel I would be a great fit for the environment you have worked hard to create here."
Written by Karrie Day on January 29th, 2024
About the Author
As a former project manager, I genuinely appreciate the skills of talented professionals who take on the often challenging work of managing projects. Senior-level project managers have the responsibility for the success of large and complex bodies of work, and they rarely have direct authority over their teams. They have a wide range of skills including the advanced soft skills that can make the difference between smooth sailing and a perfect storm.
I had the good fortune early in my career to be led and supported by a manager who worked to help me grow my leadership and communication skills. Her approach was a mix of project management best practices and things she picked up from 'the school of keeping it real'. She taught me how to deliver information confidently. She gave me opportunities to lead through influence. She let me work out solutions to problems without jumping in to save me. Most importantly, she taught me the art of navigating difficult conversations and backed me up when I needed support.
Over time, my project management and leadership skills developed in a way that fostered a critical byproduct. My experience generated trust. My teammates and my clients trusted me to advocate for their needs. My management trusted me to keep things moving while offering the upward communication necessary for success in their own roles. My mentees trusted me to help them on their journeys. I gained a lot of valuable knowledge managing projects, but the ability to establish trust quickly was by far the most valuable skill I developed.
I know your interviewer is likely looking for similar attributes. They want to trust their senior project manager to navigate difficult situations with poise, empathy, and integrity. They want to trust that your teams will meet the objectives of your projects smoothly. They want to know that you are looking out for the best interests of your teammates and clients. They want a leader who can help to grow others.
I hope this Q&A set helps you to prepare for your interview in a way that helps inspire confidence in your skills and convince your interviewer that they can trust you to do an excellent job on behalf of their company. Want more? Be sure to check out the rest of the suggested MockQuestions sets dedicated to specific companies, industries, and related careers.
Learn more about Karrie Day