Answer 1:

I firmly believe in taking a collaborative approach to each project so when I saw a position with your
company to join the production team I knew I had to apply. I've seen your work in theatrical production,
and your behind-the-scenes video really inspired me because I saw the teamwork in action. I love
working with a team to achieve a common goal, and I know my background in production has prepared
me for this role. I look forward to becoming a valued contributor to this phenomenal team.

Explanation: This response delivers everything, gift-wrapped and tied with a bow, to the hiring manager.
It demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of the company because they are aware of their projects
and even viewed a video of their work. The candidate then relates it to their personal values and
previous experience to drive home the point that there is no better person for the team.

Answer 2:

I read an article a few months back on the outreach your company does within the community. Giving
back and volunteering is a significant part of my own personal values, and I remember feeling excited
that a company values the community as much as I do. That excitement grew when I saw there was a
job opening in my field here. I would really love coming to work each day, knowing that I am helping to
make a difference in the community through my work here.

Explanation: By responding with the values that are important and demonstrating how those align with
the company, this candidate is showing that they would be delighted and fulfilled working at this
company. In turn, the candidate will likely be more engaged and remain at the organization long-term.
The hiring manager will love to hear responses like this.

Answer 3:

I have used your software for many years and am consistently impressed with the innovation and
developments made in the space. I also appreciate your dedication to education, providing your
customers with free demos to learn how to use your products effectively. I would love to be a part of
this innovative team and use my skills to continue the groundbreaking work you are doing here.

Explanation: The candidate directly refers to the quality of the company's products here, which is
flattering for the hiring manager to hear. As a user of the products, this candidate demonstrates that
they are already knowledgeable about what the company does, and how much they want to be a part of
the team.

Answer 4:

I've seen your company consistently listed as one of the top places to work. I've read employee
testimonials and heard of your enthusiasm for encouraging employee growth through education,
training, and vast resources. I already know that engaged employees produce better work, and that is
evident in the most recent campaign you created. I would love to join your innovative team, continue to
create great work, and grow within the company by learning new skills.
Explanation: Speaking to the reputation of the company is something that the hiring manager will love,
as they are working hard to make their company a better place to work and getting recognized for their
efforts is something they will like to hear. It's important to take it a step further than just speaking to
what's in it for the candidate. This response is excellent at then highlighting what the employee can
bring – through experience and innovation – and continue to develop.

Answer 5:

I’ve heard of your reputation in the industry, and I would be proud to work for a company with such an
excellent track record and a strong example of leadership in the industry. I have a friend that works in
the accounting department, and he told me that the culture here is top notch and that management
supports continuing education and learning on the job while rewarding hard work. Based on his
assessment and encouragement, I think that I would fit in perfectly with the team here to make an
immediate impact.

Explanation: By already knowing somebody who works at the company, the candidate has an automatic
leg up because they can speak to direct perks that their colleague referenced. By demonstrating that
there is a built-in network, the hiring manager might be more likely to hire this person because they
know the employee will be happy at their company.

Answer 6:

I saw an article about your new CEO John Smith and the company’s renewed investment in innovation.
As a natural innovator, this drew me to the position with your company because I know that I will thrive
in a situation where innovation is at the forefront of everything we do.

Explanation: For this candidate, the ability to innovate is one of their core values. In a concise answer,
they reveal that they are knowledgeable about the company and that this position suits their natural
abilities.

Answer 7:

This organization is internationally known for the technology products you create, and my experience in
technology and developing new products has me intrigued by this position. I saw that last year you won
multiple awards for the new processor you designed, and I would love to be on a team that is
collaborative, hardworking, and resourceful.

Explanation: This response ties together the company, the role, and the candidate’s values all in one.
Sometimes, when the hiring manager asks, “Why do you want to work here?” they are looking for two
answers, why do you like our company and why do you like this position. It could be beneficial to add in
a small nod to what drew the candidate to this position.

Answer 8:

It’s simple, I read your company’s mission and vision. After finding out more information about your
company from social media, I can clearly see how my goals align with the purposes of the company.
There's nothing I love more than when I am working with other engaged individuals towards a common
goal, and that's what excited me about working here. My research has led me to four fundamental ways
that my goals align with yours, and here they are.
Explanation: This example calls out the alignment in values clearly and directly. By saying the exact ways
that the candidate’s mission matches the company’s mission, the hiring manager will recognize that this
person did their homework and is excellent for further developing and upholding the values of the
organization.

Answer 9:

I first found your company several years ago, and I was inspired by the tone and style of your brand. You
market yourselves to a millennial audience, which I can relate to. After following you and observing your
job openings for several years while working my way up at a smaller marketing firm, I believe I am now
ready to join your exceptional team, enhancing and driving forward a brand that is a natural extension
of my own beliefs.

Explanation: This example ties together the candidate’s and the company’s values seamlessly. By
demonstrating that the candidate already lives in the messaging and branding, it appears to be a no-
brainer to bring them on as a representation of the brand and the team the company is building.

Answer 10:

Before the recruiter called me about this opportunity, I must admit that I didn't know much about your
company. I've been doing some research in preparation for this discussion, and I need to say that I'm
impressed by your work and your vision for the future. I'm genuinely interested in getting more involved
in the technological side of marketing, and I read that you are growing in that area. As an experienced
marketer with an emphasis in technology, I know I can bring a lot of value to the team.

Explanation: Honesty is always appreciated by the hiring manager, and it’s okay to admit if the candidate
had no knowledge of the company before they applied. However, that statement should always be
backed up by the research the candidate did and what they found intriguing about the company. They
still need to demonstrate that they want to work at the company and explain why.