How would you like to make more money?
I did a presentation a few months ago on the three reasons why some people make less money than their peers. The attendees shared some incredible stories of how they found out co-workers were making more money than them.
The best was a story of an employee who was supposed to hire someone beneath them.
When they asked their boss what the salary range was for the job, the boss quoted a range HIGHER than what the employee was currently making.
Yikes!
That must have been an uncomfortable moment, huh?
The fact is, there are really only three skills we need to make more money. They are:
Ability to negotiate more pay.
Know how to market our brand effectively and consistently.
Believe we deserve it.
It doesn't matter if you are a pro-athlete, a movie star, or an hourly-worker at the local sub shop - the same skills apply if you want to make more money.
Now, that doesn't mean possessing these skills will guarantee you'll get more money.
Among other things, you still need to have talents in demand and a personality people can get along with.
But, I can tell you talent and nice demeanor won't get you more cash all by itself.
Just ask the millions of kind and talented people out there who are underpaid. The reality is nobody is going to just hand us more money because we are good people and do nice work. We need the three skills above to earn more money or we can spend a lifetime being underpaid.
Your Turn
What's the worst way you ever found out you were making less money that your co-worker?
Have you every successfully negotiated for more money?
What tips can you share to help others develop these important skills?
A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
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Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
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Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
Are you struggling to answer other common interview questions? We can help.
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.
