What makes you want to work here? It's a common interview question, but it can be difficult to answer, especially if you try to wing it. A lack of preparation toward a solid response to this question is risky because it could mean the difference between whether or not a potential employer extends you a job offer.

Many job hiring managers are currently asking this question to get new candidates. With so many professionals quitting their jobs as part of "The Great Resignation," employers want to ensure that new hires are serious about the opportunity and want to be a long-term part of the organization.

When might you be asked, 'Why do you want to work here?'

The ” Why do you want to work here” comes at any point during the job interview. However, you're more likely to encounter this question early in the meeting, when the interviewer may use it to set the tone for the conversation. It may also come up near the end of the interview, as the hiring manager seeks to confirm your interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity now that you've learned more about it.

Be on the lookout for variations on the question, such as "Why do you want to work with us?" or "Why are you interested in this position?"

Examples of inappropriate responses

The answer to the question "Why do you want to work here?" depends on the job and the organization — as well as you and how you want to express yourself. Training and research on understanding what employers are unlikely to want to hear is the first step in developing a meaningful response for almost any interview situation. Here are a few examples:

"To be honest, I just need a job, and this one looked promising." To be sure, this is a straightforward response. However, it does not demonstrate a genuine interest in the position or the company. Furthermore, the hiring manager may be concerned that you will leave the company for a more appealing opportunity.

"I see this as the first step toward bigger and better things." While no employer expects every employee to stay with the company for the long haul, a response like this suggests you're more concerned with the future than the present. It also implies that you've already got one foot out the door before being hired.

"I've heard that this company provides competitive pay and benefits." Any company wants to be known as an employer of choice, and leading companies understand that in order to attract top talent, they must offer competitive compensation. However, they do not want to hire people whose primary motivation for working for the company is financial gain.

A more effective way to explain why you want the job

One of the keys to developing a compelling answer to the question "Why do you want to work here?" is to flip the question: "Why would this company want to hire me?"

This is another way of trying to consider what you have to offer and how you can make an impact, rather than why you need the job. Here are three questions to think about as you prepare your response:

How can you contribute to the company's success?

Learn about what's going on in the company and its industry. Is it currently offering new products or services? What kinds of competitive pressures does it face? Consider this environment and ask yourself, "What knowledge and experience do I have that would be useful-specific to this employer right now?"

What previous professional successes might you be able to replicate at this company?

Employers are happy to have experienced workers. In the previous jobs,

• How did you meet or exceed your employers' expectations?

• What issues did you play an important role in resolving?

• What suggestions did you make that helped the company save money or improve its bottom line?

• What lessons have you learned that you can put to use in the future to add value to a potential employer?

How will you add to the company's culture?

Many employers consider a candidate with the ability to fit into the organizational culture to be an important hiring factor. Research the company's culture and determine what appeals to you the most. For example, if the firm encourages entrepreneurial thinking it can be important to you, in your response.

Providing a smooth response to the question, ' Why do you want to work here?'

In an actual interview, you should deliver your prepared answer in a polished but natural manner. Consider using one of the following lead-ins to inspire your customized response:

"I see this as an opportunity to contribute to an exciting/forward-thinking/fast-moving company/industry, and I believe I can do so by/with my..."

"I believe my skills are especially well-suited to this position because..."

I believe I have the knowledge necessary to succeed in this role and at the company because..."

"I'm very excited about this job opportunity because it will allow me to..."

Words for your info-bank

When the interview panel slaps you with "Why do you want to work here?" (or other difficult questions like **"Tell me about yourself" and "What are your greatest weaknesses?"), do not be like some of the job seekers who freeze up, afraid of saying the wrong thing. If you anticipate the question and prepare an answer ahead of time, you'll avoid feeling stumped—and your chances of nailing a winning answer will improve.

Read also: "What Is Your Expected Salary?"

https://boostlane.com/p/dickensomollo/3416099/how-to-respond-to-the-question-%22what-is-your-expected-salary-%22/ ​

Kindly share your thoughts in the comment box, what do you think?