Wrong Answers to “Why Do You Want This Job?”

When answering the common interview question, “Why do you want to work here?”, it’s crucial to avoid the following pitfalls:

1. Flippant or Meaningless Answers

Responses like, “Because I really need the money” or vague statements such as, “This seems like a great place to work,” don’t reflect professionalism or enthusiasm. Instead, focus on how the role aligns with your skills and career goals. A better answer could be, “I’m excited about this role because it allows me to leverage my experience in [specific skill or area] while contributing to [something specific the company does].” This demonstrates a thoughtful connection between your strengths and the company’s needs.

2. Generic Answers

Giving the same canned response for every job won’t make you stand out. A more effective approach is to personalize your answer by researching the company beforehand. Show that you’ve taken the time to understand the company’s values, mission, and what makes it unique. For example, you could say, “I admire how [Company Name] is leading innovation in [specific field], and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking team.”

3. Overly Long Responses

Long-winded answers can detract from your key points. Stick to one or two compelling reasons why you’re excited about the job and how you can bring value. Keep your answer concise—around 1-2 minutes is typically ideal—and focus on what you can offer the company.

Key takeaway: Preparation and sincerity are key. Craft your answer in a way that showcases your interest in both the position and the company while being mindful of keeping it clear and concise.