Imagine you are interviewing for your dream job. The payscale is good, you like the company and the interviewer looks friendly.

Then, they pop the question: “[name], tell us why should we select you for this role?”.

You knew that this question will be asked; but you are not prepared. You respond with the most obvious, repetitive, rot-learned, boring answer the interviewer has heard from all the 10 other candidates she has interviewed that day.

Do you think the interviewing manager will have any motivation to offer the role to you?

Don’t worry. You are a member of CrazyEngineers, and it’s our duty to make you stand out in every interview, be it technical or HR; and grab that dream job offer.

In this article, I will share the best answers you can offer to the interviewer whenever they ask this question.

We will look at different answers for experienced professionals, fresh college graduates and those with no experience.

Ready?

Why Should We Select You?

The best answer for this question is as follows-

Certainly, you might consider me for this role due to my passion for learning. This [mention the domain] is an ever-evolving field and staying updated is a necessity. For instance, recently I undertook a course on [a topic that you recently learned] which significantly sharpened my problem-solving abilities. It was an enriching experience, which I look forward to applying in practical scenarios.

Moreover, I'm a hustler, with a knack for teamwork and problem-solving. [Share an example, however imaginary, from your last project or company]. We not only resolved the issue but also finished ahead of schedule. This go-getter attitude, my skills and experience and adaptability, is what I bring to your team.

Why this answer sets you apart?

1. It offers two, not one, reason for the interviewer.

2. You immediately back your claims with real-world examples. That is you took a course and prove that you love learning.

3. In the second reason, you showed interviewer that you actually solved some critical problem.

4. Memorize this answer word by word and play it back when the interviewer asks the question.

5. You are telling stories of how ‘heroic’ you were in solving problems. Everyone loves good story. Keep that in mind.

Answer for Candidates with No Experience

Now let’s look at the answers to “Why should we select you for this role?” when you have no experience in the domain.

Certainly. I have a profound passion for [this field]. It fascinates me how [mention something specific about the field that you find interesting].

Eager to immerse myself fully, I bring a wellspring of energy and unwavering dedication. I am genuinely excited about the prospect of working with you, contributing my innovative ideas, and evolving alongside the company.

Given the opportunity, I'm confident in my ability to bring a fresh perspective to your team and drive [specific outcome or project] to new heights.

Answer a Fresher May Give

If you are a fresher (a fresh graduate), just out of college; you might find it difficult to answer this question. I’ve seen that most of the interviewers ask this question during campus placements.

The expectation from students is different.

The biggest problem hiring managers face is that newly recruited fresh graduates do not stay with the company for long. Most of them look for new jobs right after two years.

So when the ask you about why they should hire you, answer from a very different angle -

[Sir, Madam], I am passionate about [relevant domain] engineering. While studying engineering, I realised the immense potential in this domain. I see a very successful career with your company.

I learned about all the good things about the culture at your company and I am excited to become a part of it. I am looking for a long-term future with your company.

Why Should We Select You for This Role?

This question is bit different. Note that the focus entirely shifts from ‘you’ to the fitment between you and the specific role you are interviewing for.

In order to answer this question effectively, you will have to identify the following-

1. What are the specific requirements of the role?

2. What unique experiences and skills you bring to the table

Let’s take an example. Let’s say you are interviewing for the role of Team Leader which requires deep knowledge of Java programming language.

You have about 4 years of experience. Here’s how you can answer it-

Absolutely. I recognize that this Team Leader role calls for not only an in-depth understanding of Java but also the capability to guide and manage projects. This corresponds seamlessly with my professional journey thus far. In my four years of immersive Java experience, I have navigated complex coding challenges and consistently ensured timely delivery of solutions.

Notably, in my most recent project, I often assumed a leadership role, directly interfacing with clients and spearheading discussions in the absence of our team leader or project manager. This experience has honed my leadership skills and project management abilities. I am confidently prepared to embrace this role, driving effective project deliveries while leading and inspiring our team

Please modify your answer based on the role you are interviewing for and your unique set of experiences.

Why Should We Select You for This Course?

Sometimes, when you are enrolling for a new course, the interviewers want to know what your aspirations are. That’s the reason they are curious to know why should you be selected for the specific course.

The key to answering this question effectively is to match your unique skills and the course output you expect.

Best Answers:

Following are top three answers that you can offer when you are asked why we should select you for this course. Take a look -

Highlighting Passion and Commitment

One of the main reasons why I believe you should select me for this course is my passion and commitment to the subject matter.

I have always had a keen interest in this field and have constantly pursued knowledge and skill development in this area. This course is a natural progression of that interest, as it will provide me with in-depth understanding and structured learning that I crave.

I am not just looking at this course as a means to a certificate or a stepping stone to a career. Rather, I see it as an opportunity to delve deeper into a subject I am truly passionate about.

This commitment, I believe, will not only ensure my successful completion of the course but also enrich the discussions and learning environment for my fellow students.

Simplified Answer:

Highlighting Passion and Commitment

I love this subject. This course aligns with my interests. I'm committed to learning deeply. I'll bring a rich discussion. I will complete this course with success.

Memory Tip: Think of the phrase "Passionate Learner" to remember this answer.

Demonstrating Relevant Skills and Experience

I come with a solid foundation in this field.

Over the years, I have accumulated knowledge and experience that aligns perfectly with what this course offers.

The skills I've developed in my academic and professional journey so far will help me grasp the course material more effectively.

I have a proven track record of applying what I learn in real-world situations, and I'm confident this will continue as I progress through this course.

Furthermore, I am also adept at collaborative work and am eager to bring my experience and perspectives to the table, which could contribute to a diverse and interactive learning environment.

Simplified Answer

Demonstrating Relevant Skills and Experience

I have the right skills for this course. I've been in this field. I grasp new knowledge quickly. I'm good at working in teams. I'm ready to share my views.

Memory Tip: Remember the acronym "RSVP," standing for Relevant Skills, Valuable experience, Participative.

Illustrating Growth Mindset and Future Impact

It would be my growth mindset and future aspirations. I believe that education should never cease and that one should always strive for continuous improvement.

This course aligns with my personal and professional development goals and I am committed to making the most of it. After completing this course, I intend to apply the acquired knowledge and skills to make a significant impact in the relevant field.

By selecting me for this course, you will be investing in a student who not only values the learning but is also focused on utilizing it for the greater good.

Simplified Answer

Illustrating Growth Mindset and Future Impact

I believe in continuous learning. This course helps me grow. I have big goals. I'll use this learning for a bigger purpose.

Memory Tip: The phrase "Grow and Impact" can help remember this response.

3 Simple Tips to Build Your Answer

Let me present 3 powerful tips to build your answer to convince the interviewer that you are the best candidate for the role and they should hire you.

I have personally used these tricks to crack several interviews I appeared for:

1. Understand the Job Requirements: To tailor your answer effectively, you must fully comprehend the specifics of the job. This includes the skills, experiences, and qualifications they're seeking in a candidate. Once you understand these, you can highlight how your own skills and experiences align with these requirements.

2. Share Unique Qualities: You want to stand out from other candidates, so it's vital to share what makes you unique. This could be a specific experience, a particular skill, or even a distinctive approach to problem-solving. Provide concrete examples to support your claims and demonstrate your impact.

3. Convey Enthusiasm and Long-term Commitment: Employers are more likely to select candidates who show genuine interest in the role and the company, and who are likely to stick around for a while. Convey your passion for the work, enthusiasm about the company, and indicate your intent to contribute to the company's goals in the long term.

I hope you found this useful. If you have follow-up questions, I will be happy to answer them for you.