Why should we hire you?
"As a new graduate I come with a new set of eyes and the strong desire to help and give back to our community."
This question is similar to 'tell me about yourself'. It's important to be familiar with all ways that this question is asked so you won't be stumped but be prepared for your 30 to 45-second elevator speech. This is your time to tell the interviewer a bit about your work history. Keep is short yet impactful. This is your chance to wow the interviewer and set yourself apart from the rest.
"When I read the job posting I noticed that you specifically mentioned you were looking for someone with experience working with Down Syndrome Patients. As you can see on my resume I have over 10 years of experience as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and 3 of those years was"‹ spent working specifically with Down Syndrome adults. What sets me apart from other candidates and will make me a valuable addition to your team is my ability to combine my work experience with my people skills. I value lasting relationships and actively seek to build those with clients, co-workers and senior managers. My passion for clients and the job I do drives me to deliver high-quality work every day."
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.
Anonymous Answer
I have a passion for assisting ppl w/disabilities to experience life as close to that of ppl who are typical as they want & are capable of. I am eager to learn the parts of Employment assistance, particularly to CO & Denver. I have a thorough understanding of techniques such as job carving, & will apply them as much as employers allow. I intend to get to know vendors & their coaches as time allows so that I can match clients for more likely success. Though I can always learn more, I am good at organization, time management, & scheduling.
Stephanie's Feedback
You do a great self-pitch here! My only suggestion is to take out the part about helping your clients experience a life that is close to people who are typical. Even though typical/atypical are clinically accurate terms, in some spaces this is seen as othering and not strengths-focused. In the "Revised Answer" section, I have suggested a way that you could re-write this response.
I have a passion for assisting ppl w/disabilities to live their best lives, and I am eager to learn the parts of Employment assistance particular to CO & Denver. I have a thorough understanding of techniques such as job carving, & will apply them as much as employers allow. I intend to get to know vendors & their coaches as time allows so that I can match clients for more likely success. Though I can always learn more, I am good at organization, time management, & scheduling.
Anonymous Answer
As an individual who completed the vocational rehabilitation process, I feel I have an innate understanding of what it is like to be in need of guidance and assistance on my journey towards a new career path. I will bring an authentic and genuine connection to each individual I am supporting to reach their respective goals.
Marcie's Feedback
What a sincere and passionate response! Nice! Can you also talk about some of the other skills, experience, qualities, and education that you will bring to the role? Your answer is already excellent, but make sure to fully take advantage of this opportunity to really sell yourself!
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