One of the most commonly asked interview questions and, not surprisingly, one which candidates often find difficult to answer. Take a look at our expert advice and find out what the interviewer is looking for and the best way to shape your answer to stand out from the crowd.
Open ended questions such as these give an interviewer a chance to assess a lot of things including how your deliver your answer, your body language and what your motivations are for seeking out a new role.
There are three key areas to address in constructing your answer. Firstly, think about why you want the role from a personal perspective. Does it give you an opportunity for progression both in terms of what you are looking for at this stage in your career and helping you achieve your future ambitions? Also consider the culture of the organisation; how do you see yourself working there and being part of the team? What do you think you can bring which will complement and enhance the approach that the company takes? It is also essential that you look at the skills and experience you can bring to the role and demonstrate how these meet the requirements outlined in the job description.
The next thing to consider is the company itself. It is very likely that you could apply for a similar role in another organisation so you need to ensure that the interviewer understands that you not only want the role that is on offer but that you are attracted by the prospect of working in the organisation itself. Consider the market position of the organisation – is it a market leader, a rising star? Is it somewhere with growth ambitions or a business need that you think your skills can make a contribution towards? Illustrate your answer with knowledge of the company itself such as key contracts and relationships or discuss recent achievements to demonstrate that you have done your research as part of your interview preparation.
Finally, think about the role itself and which elements of the job description really stand out to you. Within this you should consider what you can bring to the role in terms of your knowledge and experience, in particular highlighting what part you have played in previous roles where there have been challenges or key projects that you’ve had involvement in. You should also discuss areas of the role that you think will offer you longer term career growth in order to demonstrate your desire to grow and develop with the company.
Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today and see how we can help.