Every job interview will include a question asking you what you can bring to the company. This is one of the most common interview questions, so you should prepare for it before the interview process. A question like this can trip candidates up, so we are here to help.
The company is really trying to understand what skills and qualities you have that will help you get the job done. Below, we'll break down how the question is asked and the best way to answer it.
Listen carefully to how each interview question is asked. Small differences can affect the answer you will provide. Here are a few examples along with tips to answer each scenario that might arise.
What skills can you bring to the job?
If the hiring manager asks you about your skills, they are looking for what you are an expert in and how that is relevant to the open role. When you provide an answer discussing your skills, focus on your ability to get the job done. This is a great time to bring up any awards you have won or accolades you have been given in the past.
Hiring managers want to hear about any courses or degrees you have that match the job description. For example, if you are a project manager, do you have your PMP? Or if you are a graphic designer, what programs have you mastered?
Make sure you give examples of past work experience rather than just listing out the skills you have. Always provide context with your answer. After you discuss your skills that align with the job description, you can also discuss soft skills. If you have never heard of the term soft skills, here is a list of the most common ones.
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Adaptability
- Teamwork
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Work ethic
- Attention to detail
- Leadership
Similar to the above, when mentioning soft skills that you have, offer an explanation for why you are strong in these areas. Anyone can list the skills but showing some evidence that you have what it takes can make a big impression.
What qualities can you bring to the company?
Hiring managers that ask about your qualities want to know what can you bring to the company that other candidates might be lacking. It's hard to find a candidate that isn't prepared to rattle off a bunch of attributes or traits that they think the interviewer wants to hear. They're looking for the real thing though.
Before you answer the interview question, think about your experience and how it matches the employer research you have done. You should have a sample answer ready to go for a question about your qualities. Chances are you will be asked this in one of your interviews.
As you discuss your experiences and background, you want to show the recruiter your personality. There are lots of applicants that have the same skills and qualities, so focus on what makes you the top option. Provide professional examples of your qualities and how you will apply them to the role.
Make sure you have a strong understanding of the job description so your answer matches the qualifications needed. For example, if you will be working in a group setting, don't just say you are a team player. Rather, use a story from a previous work that demonstrates you have experience working on projects with multiple team members successfully.
If you are new to the workforce, use life accomplishments or internships that show the hiring manager you would be a good fit for the open position. Just because you have never worked in that industry doesn't mean you aren't qualified for the job. For example: performing well under pressure.
Think back to a situation or two that you were under stress and performed well. Even if it was a simple task, speak to the end result and how you were a valuable contributor.
Remember, qualities and skills are similar but not the same. Listen carefully to which job interview question you are asked before formulating your answer.
Discuss strengths such as handling stress well, working well with colleagues, and your willingness to take on extra responsibility. Recruiters are looking for characteristics that show you can handle challenges and have the confidence to take on tough situations.
How can you be an asset to the company?
When asked how you can be an asset, you want to combine your answers from the interview questions above.
Interviewers who ask this want to hear about your skills and qualities. Your answer should reflect the kind of employee you would be and the passion you have for your career.
Here are a few tips on how to make the most out of your answer to this question:
- Show your desire and enthusiasm for the company and role.
- Explain how you would benefit the organization with examples from previous roles.
- Discuss your ability to handle different types of challenges.
- Use examples of your flexibility and how it has helped your individual growth.
- Any relevant achievements or goals should be mentioned.
Final thoughts on answering what you can bring to the company
Regardless of the company you are applying for, you will need to have a response showing the value you can bring to the job. Try to keep a balance of talking about yourself and the knowledge you have on their company. This is your opportunity to show the hiring manager the values you have and how they align with the mission of the organization.
You will only have a few moments to impress the interviewer, so make them count. Prepare your answers so you can get your point across without making too many mistakes. The path to a new career is right in front of you. If you need more advice, this article focuses on speaking about your qualifications.
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