A Winning Approach to Tackling the ‘Why You Want to Join Us’ Question
Can you think of an interview question that serves as a litmus test of a candidate's alignment with a company’s core values? Sometimes, it is the simplest and most obvious questions that throw most candidates off their A-game. One such question that you should expect to hear and definitely prepare for is - why do you want to join our company. There are so many different ways in which this question can be approached. So, how can you come up with a value-adding response?
Here, we help you navigate two things - what the hiring manager really wants to know through this question and how you can ace the job interview by framing an impressive answer.
Here, we help you navigate two things - what the hiring manager really wants to know through this question and how you can ace the job interview by framing an impressive answer.
Why do interviewers ask this question?
Most interviewers are hiring managers or professionals that the company trusts enough to select new hires. They are typically experts on company culture, mission and performance. By posing this question, their aim is to gain valuable insights into your aspiration and alignment with the organisation. What they really want to know is how much you know about the company, why this job role appeals to you and if you have the right skill sets and background for this specific position.
For example, if you are applying for a job at Aditya Birla Capital, you can expect the hiring manager to ask you this question at some point during the selection process. The idea is to evaluate how your skills can help elevate the company’s financial expertise.
For example, if you are applying for a job at Aditya Birla Capital, you can expect the hiring manager to ask you this question at some point during the selection process. The idea is to evaluate how your skills can help elevate the company’s financial expertise.
Let’s take a look at four compelling aspects that interviewers aim to uncover with this question:
1. Gauge candidate’s level of preparation
It allows interviewers to test your level of interest, research and knowledge about the company’s missions, services, achievements, etc. A thoughtful response showcases a genuine interest and determination to join the team.2. Assess cultural fit
Interviewers check if you align with the company's values, culture and mission by assessing whether your professional goals are compatible with the organisation's culture.3. Evaluate professional commitment
Employers seek candidates who are willing to stay with the company for an extended period. By understanding your motivation, they can identify whether you view this opportunity as a stepping stone or a long-term commitment.4. Examine skills and contribution
Candidates get the opportunity to articulate how their skills, knowledge and experience can be a valuable asset to the organisation’s success.
Key strategies to address ‘why do you want to join our company?’
One of the best approaches to answer ‘why do you want to join our company’ is to think from the interviewer's perspective. Reflect on what could be the intent behind this question. More often than not, they want to test your genuine interest in the company.
Here we have outlined the key considerations to help you provide a winning answer to this pivotal question and set you apart from other applicants.
Here we have outlined the key considerations to help you provide a winning answer to this pivotal question and set you apart from other applicants.
Strategy 1: Highlight the organisation’s unique value proposition
Express your passion towards the company’s offering, whether that’s a product, service or mission. Emphasise how your skills and experience make you the perfect fit for the company’s unique value proposition. Remember to be clear about ‘why’ you are passionate about the position.Example - ‘Having garnered extensive experience in risk management, I believe I can contribute to your organisation’s reputation for minimising financial uncertainties.’
Strategy 2: Demonstrate your suitability for the job
Showcase how your skills and long-term career goals align with the specific needs of the company. Mention how your core values are compatible with that of the organisation, making it easier to adjust to the work culture. This will help employers see that you have carefully considered different aspects of the job.Example - ‘My background in optimising investment portfolios has helped me equip strong analytical, organisational and collaborative skills, which align perfectly with the work culture of your company.’
Strategy 3: Share your career goals
Explain how being part of the organisation aligns with your professional aspirations. Express confidence about your ability to thrive and grow in the given role. This will demonstrate your keen interest in becoming a part of the company. Moreover, it will also showcase how this isn’t just a job, but a strategic step towards achieving your career goals, while benefiting the organisation.Example - ‘’As I seek growth in my financial advising career, your company’s outstanding reputation and expertise positions it as the perfect choice”
When recruiters pose questions like ‘why do you want to join our company’ it is important that you craft an authentic response that demonstrates a genuine alignment with the company’s values. Faking interest can lead to future dissatisfaction and do more harm than good in terms of your career growth. Therefore, carefully consider the pointers discussed above to frame an honest response that provides a solid foundation for a mutually beneficial working relationship.
At Aditya Birla Capital, we are constantly looking for individuals who understand our vision and resonate with our five core values - integrity, commitment, passion, seamlessness and speed. Be part of a global conglomerate known for its diverse portfolio, collaborative work culture and commitment to excellence.
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