This is a question that is often asked, especially in the final stages of interviews. By now, the candidates are the strongest on offer and most likely have all the skills that they are seeking. To close the deal, you must be prepared. Careful planning can secure this!
From meeting with you, the interviewer wants to feel confident that that you will be an asset to the team, helping deliver exceptional results whilst also making their hiring skills look first class. To be confident with this, they will be looking for a candidate that can do the role, get results, fits into the team and stands out in terms of skills and experience.
Your Answer:
You should summarise three to four points that will make you most relevant / memorable for the position, with those points being in line with the top requirements for the role. These could relate to:
- Industry Experience
- Technical skills
- Transferable skills
- Key achievements / awards
- Education / Training
- Company values
Preparing your answer:
A good answer won’t just develop on the spot, it is always ideal to prepare beforehand;
- Take a look at the job description and person spec. Highlight your CV with areas that match and consider where your strengths lie within these, what will make you different to other candidates and any examples of achievements to demonstrate these.
- Research the company, their core value / mission statement, competitor information, recent news as well as all areas that can give you good links.
- Don’t write a script (as it will come out too practiced), but do write down your top 3 – 4 points that will really maximise your effort to impress. Jot down a brief explanation as to why. You want to keep your answer concise and to the point (this way the interviewer has a chance of recalling what you say!).
- Practise your answer (some say it is good to practise in front of mirror). Again, do not over do it as it could present as robotic (especially if you are feeling nervous on the day). We are going for confident and enthusiastic. The right attitude goes a long way at interviews.
Examples:
“From my understanding of the role, it is a position that requires a lot of fast past activity. This is something I really thrive in.”
“In my current position, my manager has complimented me on my ability to keep customers on side, even in difficult situations.”
“I would really relish the opportunity to work for such a reputable company which mirrors my own values of care and respect.”
Mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t make direct comparisons to others – concentrate on talking about yourself.
- Focus on what you can do for the company – not what they can do for you.
- Avoid clichés that cannot be qualified: hardworking, reliable etc.
- Don’t brag, but stay humble.
During the Interview:
- Listen carefully, you can always take notes to help.
- Note what you haven’t had chance to say.
- Push for more information.
- Start with the bigger picture before focusing on your key points.
- Relate to experience.
- Use what you have learned throughout the interview. You will pick up on any extras, or they may refer to other candidates.
