The hiring manager asks a rather simple interview question, yet it catches you off guard: ” Why do you want to work for this company?” Of course, the obvious answer that comes to mind is “Because you have an opening and I need a job”. While this is the truth, it will not reward you with any points in a job interview.

Employers are eager to determine which candidates really want the job and would invest an effort in bettering their company or who just needs a job.  Most of the interviewers would like to know and they will ask why you are applying to work at their particular company. It’s one of the most frequently asked interview questions and saying that the job sounds great or the company is wonderful isn’t enough.

The Best Way to Respond

The best way to answer this question is to be prepared and knowledgeable about the company. Spend more time researching the company (Hint: “About us” section of the employer’s website is a good place to start). In this way, you will be able to talk about benefits of working for this particular employer.

You can also check any press releases and media coverage of the company so you have a sense of the company’s future goals. You can also check their Social Media profiles such as Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter in order to get a sense of what clients or product users think about their company.

Match Your Goals to the Company’s Objectives

To prepare an answer, compare your goals with the objectives of the company and position.

Make a list of the company’s main objectives and then make a list of your own goals. Emphasize how these goals are aligned with your own objectives or how your work experience may help them achieve their goals.

In this type of question, instead of focusing on how the company can help you, emphasize how you can add value to that specific company. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is to convince the interviewer that hiring you will be a benefit to the company.