How to answer
“What made you want to apply for this position?”
How to answer it
To answer effectively, relate your interests to the job description and the company's goals. For example, 'I was excited to apply for this position because I admire your commitment to sustainability, and I believe my background in environmental science will allow me to contribute effectively to your initiatives. I am particularly drawn to how your company recently launched a green project, which aligns with my personal passion for eco-friendly practices.' Highlighting how your skills and values resonate with the company can create a compelling answer.
What a strong answer includes
- •The candidate articulates a genuine interest in the company's mission and values.
- •They demonstrate knowledge of the role and how it fits into their career goals.
- •The response includes specific aspects of the job that excite them.
- •They express enthusiasm and a proactive approach to the application process.
Mistakes to avoid
- •The candidate gives vague or generic reasons for applying.
- •They focus solely on salary or benefits without mentioning the role's responsibilities.
- •There is a lack of knowledge about the company or its culture.
- •The candidate seems disinterested or unenthusiastic in their response.
Why interviewers ask this
Interviewers ask this question to understand your motivations and what specifically drew you to their organization and role. They want to gauge your enthusiasm for the position and see if your goals align with the company’s mission and values. This question can reveal how much research you've done about the company and how well you might fit into their culture.