Mark Swartz, Career Coach

Employee & Job-Seeker Tip

ANSWERING“WHY

SHOULD WE HIRE YOU?”INTERVIEW Q

THINK OFHOW YOU WILLSELL YOURSELF

THINK OFHOW YOU WILLSELL YOURSELF11..

• Don’t make the mistake of answering in general terms that are only about you

• For example, avoid saying something like “You should hire me because I need

and want a job”

1.1 THE WRONG TRACK1.1 THE WRONG TRACK

• Focus your answer on being a problem solver who can quickly help the

employer solve the issues this job will deal with

• The goal is to come across as an employee who will fit in well, do the job right, and be really pleased to work for this

specific employer

1.2 THE RIGHT TRACK1.2 THE RIGHT TRACK

DEVELOP YOURUNIQUESELLING PROPOSITION

DEVELOP YOURUNIQUESELLING PROPOSITION22..

2.1 UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF THE EMPLOYER2.1 UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF THE EMPLOYER

• The bottom line of the question is, "What can you do for this company?"

• Show in your answers that you have researched this employer thoroughly and

can relate your skills and experience to their specific needs

2.2 KNOW WHAT YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE2.2 KNOW WHAT YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE

• Start by looking at the job description. What is the employer stressing as requirements and duties of the job? Make a list of these

• Next, do an inventory to determine what you offer as a fit for those requirements. Think of two or three key qualities you have that match

• Don't underestimate personal traits that make you unique; your energy, personality type, working style and people skills are all very relevant to any job

CONSTRUCT YOUR ANSWER ASA MINI SALES PITCH

CONSTRUCT YOUR ANSWER ASA MINI SALES PITCH33..

• From the list of requirements, match what you have to offer and merge the two

into a summary statement

• This is your sales pitch. It should be no more than a minute or two long, and should stress the traits that make

you unique and a good match for the job

3.1 MATCH UP YOUR BEST QUALITIES TO THE EMPLOYER’S NEEDS3.1 MATCH UP YOUR BEST QUALITIES TO THE EMPLOYER’S NEEDS

• "From our conversations and my research, it sounds as if you're looking for someone to come in and take charge immediately. It also sounds like you are experiencing problems with some of your database systems. With my seven years of experience working with

financial databases, I have saved companies thousands of dollars by streamlining systems. My high energy and quick learning style enable me to hit the ground and size up problems quickly. My colleagues would tell you I'm a team player who stays focused in stressful situations and can be counted on when the going gets tough. I have wanted to work with your company for years, and I'm confident I would be a great addition to your team."

3.2 DRAFT YOUR REPLY USING THIS SAMPLE AS A GUIDE

3.2 DRAFT YOUR REPLY USING THIS SAMPLE AS A GUIDE

more on this topic:

Why Should We Hire You?

more career advice:

http://career-advice.monster.ca

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