Good Answer to the Only Interview Question That Matters

The question is, "Why should we hire you?"

This question is often not asked directly, nor is it usually the first question in an interview. However, it would help if you addressed the primary question before answering other questions.

No matter what question is asked, you should bring it back to the most important question by saying: "Before I answer your question, let me briefly tell you a little bit about myself so you know why I am here." What you are going to tell them is why they should hire you. Be direct, as you are there to get a job, not to score style points.

Consider a recent example where preparation could have made a huge difference: President Biden's performance in the debate against Donald Trump. Contrary to popular belief, his performance issues were not due to age but to very poor preparation. This underscores the power of being well-prepared, putting you in control of the situation.

I worked with a recent college graduate who struggled to get job offers despite landing interviews. The problem is that students spend a lot of time learning various subjects in school but need more time (if any) to develop the crucial skill of interviewing. They often learn this the hard way. But why should it be that way?

Here's What We Did:

Based on his college experience, internship, and extracurricular activities, we focused on three key words: Learn, Contribute, and Grow.
Learn

• Emphasize your recent graduation and the learning you acquired.
• Highlight three areas: academics, extracurricular activities, and social skills.

Contribute

• Discuss your involvement in study groups, marching band, and clubs like Toastmasters or Chess.

Grow

• Highlight your academic, personal, and social growth.

Then, transition to the job by saying: "I would like to bring the same three attributes to your company: Learn, Contribute, and Grow."

• Learn: Learn from my efforts, boss, and colleagues.
• Contribute: Contribute to the success of my boss, team, and company.
• Grow: Grow personally, professionally, and financially.

With this focus, aim to create a win-win relationship in which you win by making your boss, team members, and company successful. This means that by hiring you, the company gains a valuable asset, and in return, you gain a fulfilling job and opportunities for growth and development.

By answering this question effectively, you will demonstrate preparation, thoughtfulness, and insight, persuading the interviewer to bet on you. This will leave you feeling reassured and confident in your abilities.

Applying This Approach:

Reflect on Joe Biden's "job interview" in the election:

1. State the Purpose: Explain right from the start why he was there and take the argument to Donald Trump, as the election is not just about who has better plans but also about leadership and getting things done that improve people's lives.
2. Highlight Accomplishments: Talk about the great work done, the ongoing efforts, and the future plans if re-elected.
3. Answer Direct Questions: Address the question asked, time permitting.

Biden's failure to effectively prepare and communicate led to his poor performance. Avoid this mistake by following the tips provided. It will show that you are well prepared, focused, and can get the job done. You will engender confidence in the interviewers that you are the one they are looking for to get the company to the "promised land."

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Communication is our only differentiator in winning. I guide people succeed when they must win, such as getting a good job, advancing in career or winning a sales deal.
I wrote a practical, no-nonsense book on winning throuhg speaking titled Winning Speech Moments: How to Achieve Your Objective with Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere. 

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