Why do you want to work here?
⚡ In a Hurry? Quick Answer
Research the company. Mention a specific product, initiative, or value you admire. Connect your skills to their mission. Show this isn't just any job—it's THIS job you want.
💡 The Recruiter's Mind
They want to know: Did you do your homework, or did you apply to 100 jobs blindly? Do you understand what we do? Will you stay long-term or leave in 6 months? This question separates candidates who genuinely want to work there from those who just need any job.
The Perfect Answer Structure
- Show awareness: Reference something specific about the company (product, news, culture)
- Align values: Connect their mission/values to your own professional goals
- Demonstrate value: Explain how your skills can contribute to their objectives
- Show enthusiasm: Be genuine about why this excites you
Example Answers by Company Type
For a Tech Startup
"I've been following your company since your Series A announcement last year. What excites me most is your mission to make financial literacy accessible to underserved communities—I grew up in a neighborhood where this was desperately needed. Your AI-driven approach is innovative, and with my background in machine learning and passion for social impact, I see this as the perfect opportunity to build something meaningful. I'm particularly impressed by your recent partnership with community colleges."
For an Established Corporation
"Your company's commitment to sustainability leadership in the automotive industry is what drew me here. I've read about your goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, and as someone who has spent five years optimizing supply chain efficiency, I know I can directly contribute to that mission. I'm also attracted to your investment in employee development—the rotational leadership program you offer aligns perfectly with my goal to grow into a director-level role."
For a Non-Profit
"Your organization's work in youth mentorship has a personal connection for me—I was a mentee in a similar program that changed my life trajectory. I've spent the past three years in corporate fundraising, and I'm ready to apply those skills to a mission I truly believe in. Your data-driven approach to measuring impact and the recent expansion into rural areas shows you're serious about scalable change, which is exactly the kind of strategic thinking I want to be part of."
🚫 Red Flags to Avoid
- Generic answers: "You're a great company" or "I need a job"
- Only talking about what you'll get: "For the salary and benefits"
- Saying "I don't know much about you, but..."
- Being dishonest or over-the-top: "This has been my dream since childhood"
- Mentioning you're just using this as a stepping stone to another company
- Talking only about the perks (free lunch, remote work) without substance
Research Tips for Crafting Your Answer
- Company website: Read the About Us, Mission, and Recent News sections
- Recent press: Google the company name + "news" for last 6 months
- LinkedIn: Follow the company page to see what they post about
- Employee reviews: Check Glassdoor for culture insights (but don't mention negatives)
- Products/services: Use them if possible, or read customer reviews
- Competitors: Know who they compete with and what makes them different