‘Why do you want to work here?’ is an almost guaranteed question for any graduate IT job. The question appears short and simple but don’t be fooled. It's actually several questions rolled into one.
So read on to see the good approaches to answering this common IT graduate application and interview question.
Why do you want to become a software engineer?
To begin with, this is a very well-grounded question for several reasons. For instance, it gives the employer a chance to understand the skill sets you have and what you would be suited to. Besides, it shows that you are interested and curious about the work you do.
There are several questions you need to answer here and they are as follows:
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What do you know about the company and the position?
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What evidence can you provide that you have an interest in the thing we do?
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What do you hope to get out of the job?
Also read: Job Interview Question: Why Do You Want to Work Here? (Plus Sample Answers!)
What's on the recruiter's mind as they study your response?
Saying "I’ve always wanted a career as a software developer in the financial services industry" won’t cut it. Naming relevant internships, side projects or university programmes will.
These will be on the recruiter's mind as they study your response:
- Are you serious enough about the job to have bothered researching us properly?
- Do you have a realistic understanding of what the position actually involves?
- Do you really want the job?
- If you accepted the job, how long would you stick around?
What's a good answer?
At the interview, you may be asked directly ‘Why do you want to work for us’, or you may be asked related questions about the job, company and your motivation for joining. Either way, keep the above points in mind.
After all, the best answer is just honesty. You will talk more about anything naturally if you are honest.
Still considering if you should pursue a career in software development? Read this article from Rasmussen University to find out if these 8 signs are present in you.
So, ask yourself now: what fuels your desire?
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