Anyone who has been in a supervisory position or in a human resource role can relate to this: They usually know right away who is going to have a successful career… and who isn’t.
I’ve seen a lot of this lately, especially in younger workers (the fabled Gen Y). I can also clearly identify which ones are going to have wonderful success stories in their careers… maybe not right now, but they will be at some point in their lives. There’s just something about them.
But what is that magic elixir that separates the super stars out from the rest of the workforce?
It’s hard to explain, but I’ll try.
To have a successful career...
When you meet the person, they are alert, responsive, and proactive. One such person, Ian Mondrow, was someone I met on Twitter who shared my passion for engaging career centers at universities in preparing students.
Ian and I started an informal movement trying to help connect human resource managers and recruiters to career centers. Immediately after one of our first meetings over the phone, Ian had sent over minutes from our discussion. Wow! I didn’t even ask him to – that’s what I call being resourceful and proactive.
Another example: I recently spoke at the World Education Congress about online reputation management and asked to be connected to a fairly new graduate. That’s when I met Courtney Stanley, a rising star in the meetings industry. Her sharpness of focus really impressed me. It’s clear why she has already won awards at the tender age of 23.
But this isn’t just limited to new entrants to the workforce.
Anyone who is positive, energetic, follows through and follows up without being asked to, takes initiative, and actually CARES about their work are the ones that quickly get on the radar screens of decision makers as people to invest a little more time and effort in mentoring.
The end result?
You guessed it: These are the people who go farther in their careers.
You’ve heard the career advice out there about what it takes to be successful, but think of it this way: If you concentrate your efforts on being helpful, proactive, resourceful, conscientious, alert, and using critical thinking skills… there’s literally no stopping you.
Not convinced?
Look at everyone who has been an amazing success in their careers and are at their peak… and you’ll see the same qualities.
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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.
