Everyone has their own reasons for job hunting, whether it’s finding a role that aligns with a personal passion, looking for long-term growth, or simply bringing in a paycheck. However, when employers ask, “Why do you want to work here?” they’re hoping to hear an answer that cuts beyond surface-level motivations. Framing your response with both research and enthusiasm can leave an impression that sets you apart from other candidates.
Why Employers Ask What Motivates You to Work for Them
Hiring a new team member takes a substantial amount of time and money. Organizations want to know your goals line up with the role and the company’s bigger picture. That means they’re not just checking if you possess the skills; they also want to see how you’ll contribute to the culture and long-term objectives.
Interviewers also use this question to gauge your level of preparation. If you’ve done your homework—researching the company’s products, reputation, or values—your knowledge will shine through. Talking about specifics, such as a recent company success or a unique aspect of its mission, shows genuine interest rather than a generic shot in the dark.
Managers also hope to learn if your expectations are realistic. If you say you’re excited about collaboration, but the role involves primarily solo work, that’s likely not a good match. Making it clear you understand the job’s requirements will reflect well on your ability to succeed if hired.
How to Answer “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”
Show genuine enthusiasm
Employers want people who will bring energy, ideas, and positivity to the team. Mention aspects of the role or the organization’s culture that spark your interest. Maybe you appreciate their commitment to professional development or admire the way they give employees a voice in strategic decisions.
Example: If the company prides itself on championing creativity, you could say something like, “I see that your projects encourage out-of-the-box solutions. In my previous role, I led two creative initiatives that increased our user engagement by 20%. I’m excited to apply those same innovative techniques here.”
Connect on values
Highlight a key value that resonates with you. For instance, if the company prioritizes social responsibility, mention how you’ve volunteered or developed projects that align with their charitable efforts. This alignment suggests a deeper commitment to their mission.
Example: “I noticed that you partner with local nonprofits to promote STEM education. I’ve mentored high school students in coding, so that aspect of your organization really stands out to me. I’d love to contribute to that community-focused spirit.”
Demonstrate your research
Sprinkle in specifics you’ve learned from their website, news articles, or employee testimonials. Maybe they just launched a product you’ve been following or announced a strategic move that aligns with your own professional goals.
Example: “Reading about your recent expansion into international markets caught my attention. I studied abroad in college and have experience working with diverse teams, so I’m excited to support your global growth strategy.”
Show how you fit
Wrap up your answer by tying your skills and experiences directly to the job description. Briefly talk about your track record in related tasks or fields and how that background will help the company succeed.
Example: “My prior role included project management in a fast-paced environment similar to yours. I became adept at balancing tight deadlines with high-quality outcomes, and I’m ready to bring that expertise to your upcoming product rollouts.”
How Not to Answer
- “I just need any job”: Saying you want the position purely for a paycheck won’t inspire confidence. Employers are more likely to invest in candidates who care about the work and the organization’s bigger goals.
- “I heard the perks are great”: While acknowledging company benefits can be part of the conversation, focusing solely on perks and ignoring the actual job signals that you’re only interested in surface-level advantages, not the role or its responsibilities.
- “It’s just a stepping stone”: Discussing future aspirations is acceptable, but make it clear you’re dedicated to making an impact right now. If you treat the position as nothing more than a quick stop in your journey, managers might question your commitment.
Sample Answers to “Why Do You Want to Work Here?”
Example #1
“I’m really inspired by the innovative projects your company takes on, like the recent launch of your health app I read about in TechCrunch. It’s clear you’re leading the field in tech solutions for wellness, and I’d love to bring my app development background to a mission that promotes healthier lifestyles.”
Why it works:
This answer highlights genuine excitement, references a specific project, and connects the candidate’s skill set—app development—to the company’s focus on health and innovation.
Example #2
“During my senior year, I worked on a team project focused on sustainable engineering solutions. That’s why your commitment to green construction really speaks to me. I admire how you’ve integrated eco-friendly designs into your projects, and I’m eager to contribute my experience in environmental engineering to keep driving that progress forward.”
Why it works:
Calling out the company’s emphasis on sustainability and linking it to personal experience shows an alignment of values. The candidate mentions a relevant academic project, implying they have tangible skills to offer.
Example #3
“I saw the news about your recent community outreach programs in underserved neighborhoods. Volunteering is important to me—I’ve organized multiple local events in partnership with youth organizations. Your team’s dedication to making a difference aligns perfectly with my own passion for community impact, and I believe my organizational skills and background in volunteer coordination could help these initiatives grow.”
Why it works:
This example references recent company efforts and ties them to the candidate’s personal dedication to volunteering. Employers get a glimpse of shared values, plus a sense of how the candidate can contribute beyond their standard job functions.
Putting together a tailored response that focuses on what excites you about the company and how you can help drive its success will differentiate you from applicants who give generic or self-focused answers. Show that you understand what they’re all about, share their values, and are eager to contribute to their goals—and your interviewer will come away with a strong sense that you’re the right person for the job.