How To Effectively Answer the Question, “What Interests You About This Job?”

During job interviews, several questions are usually asked. But, there are some popular questions most interviewers ask during interviews. A common example is “What interests you about this job?”.

Interviewers, when asking this question, expect you to give specific reasons why you want to work at their company. They also want to know the motivation for your job application – everyone needs a paycheck, you don’t have to state the obvious.

Many job applicants usually misunderstand many interview questions, especially this. As a result, they tend to give the wrong answer and miss their opportunity at a great job. Having a clear understanding of the expected answer (s) to the questions asked is essential.

So, how can you effectively answer the question “What interests you about this job?”. To do this, you need to convince your interviewer that you are passionate about the job. You also need to show that you can relate to the company’s visions and goals.

When answering, your statement should go as follows “I am enthusiastic about this job and company because…”. Your answer should also contain a minimum of three genuine and convincing reasons why you want to take the job or work there.

Here are tips on how you can construct a convincing answer to the question, “What interests you about this job?”

To Start with, Professional Qualification

When stating the reasons for your interest in the job, your qualifications and skills should come in first.

For instance: “I am enthusiastic about the job because, through this role, my skills and qualifications can benefit your company. I can use them to provide solutions to lingering problems within your company. With this job, I can learn and grow in every area of my life while fulfilling my roles and contributing to your company’s growth”.

This is the most vital part of your answer. With a good response, you can paint a business-inclined and strategic picture of yourself while selling yourself as a top candidate.

It would be best to intentionally sell an idea that communicates your enthusiasm for their company’s growth while looking out for yours.

Secondly, Cultural Compatibility

The second reason you give for this pivotal question of interest should also show how compatible you are, but not in the professional sense.

How?

You can structure this part like this “Also, based on the great things I have heard and read, I find your company’s culture intriguing. I think it is compatible with mine. And, I must say, I am impressed with your mission statement and love what you’re doing.”

Listing specific things you have heard or read about the company’s culture can make your answer sound more convincing. Ensure that you research this area extensively before your interview.

When doing your research, here are a few things to consider:

• Does this company qualify as one of the top competitors in its field/industry?
• Does this company prioritize highly advanced innovations or conventional ones? 
• What have you heard about the customer service of this company? Is it commendable?
• Is the working environment of the company healthy, conducive, and laudable?
• Is professional growth factored into this company’s goals and culture?
• Listing things that you genuinely connect to and are comfortable with is crucial.

Lastly, Personal compatibility

The last part of your answer should be more personalized.

For instance: “Finally, I’ve always dreamed about moving to this location, and finding a job here gives me an opportunity to move”.

“Finally, getting this job saves me the cost of commuting to work because I live down the street”.

“Finally, I’m a great fan of your products. I have used them for some time now, and I can’t get enough of them. I want to be part of this amazing innovation”. 

Giving reasons that show personal interest in the job can effectively communicate your zeal and enthusiasm to your employers. Personal interest and enthusiasm for the company spur your employers’ interest in you.

In summary, here’s an excellent way to structure your answer to this question.

“I am enthusiastic about this job because I am certain my skills and qualifications can be instrumental to the growth of your company. Through this role, I also stand to benefit enormously in all areas of my life. Secondly, I admire your company’s workplace values and culture. I would love to be part of it and work hand-in-hand with other employees to achieve its mission. Lastly, I have always wanted a job like this in this location/city. Finally getting this job will be a dream come true for me”.

By carefully following this format, you can give a detailed and convincing answer to the question. Ensure to tailor your response to the job and state how your skills will add to the firm and at the same time showing passion for working with the firm.

Are you preparing for an interview? Have you found previous interview questions challenging to answer? Or are you having a hard time answering practice interview questions? Not to worry! Sign Up for the free course “How to Answer Interview Questions” and get ready to ace your next interview!