Why Should we Choose You Over Other Job Applicants?

As you prepare for the job interview with the hope of clinching the dream job, it is imperative to understand that this one question will definitely feature at some point and that it might be the determinant on whether you will be a successful job candidate or someone else will celebrate the victory. Unfortunately most of the times interviewee’s succumb to the pressure and fail to respond to it appropriately.They miss on the opportunity of securing the job. 

Thus, it is imperative for you as a job applicant to know the interviewer’s mind well and be prepared adequately with a convincing response.

So then, how does one approach to such a interview question? How does a job candidate win over the interviewer to his/her side when asked - Why should we give you this job?

The most important factor that will help you decide how to answer the question is the timing of the question. There are only two times when an interviewer is bound to ask the same. Either at the beginning or at towards the close of an interview session. The key here is to know why it would be asked when and then be ready to answer accordingly.

If the interviewer asks you in the beginning then he/she is trying to find out the following points:

• The job interviewer is trying to judge how capable you are at handling job/work pressure by bouncing off such a question right at the beginning of the interview (may be with the hope that you were not prepared and thus taken by surprise ). If you happen to succumb, you might not secure the job.
• He may also be providing you an opportunity to direct the course of the interview and decide the tone as well. You need to take advantage on this opportunity and touch-base on your strengths in line with the job requirements.

Let’s understand with the help of an example:

Interviewer: “Why should we choose you over other applicants?”

Interviewee: “Well, frankly, I have no doubt that i’am the perfect fit that you are looking for. I have 3+ years of experience in Marketing and Communications. I have sound expertise in Media Management and I have consistently delivered with distinction in the capacity of a Regional Co-operate Communications Manager in the Professional Services Firm. I believe you require an individual who can spear-head your Corporate Communications with a sharp risk management perspective.

If the job interviewer asks you the question towards the end of the interview, then he/she is to ascertain the following:

• The interviewer wishes to take a final call on whether you would be the most appropriate candidate for the job.
• He/she may be providing you a second chance to prove your worth and secure the job.

Ideally, you should take the question in your stride and summarize whatever you have discussed up till that point. Further, you must emphasize on your strengths and utility in relation to the job being interviewed.

The aspects that can set you apart from any other applicant/candidates are the job competencies: This revolve around the skill sets, professional experience and qualifications.

Always refer to the job requirements to get an idea of the key competencies needed for the said job.