Why Are You the Best Candidate for This Position: Sample Answers

Hiring managers often lead off interviews with questions like, “What makes you a good fit for this position?” You’ll learn how to answer this question and see top-notch response examples.

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Why do employers ask, “Why should we hire you?”

By asking this classic interview question, a hiring manager assesses how well you understand the job and how confident and experienced you are.

Your answer should prove that you understand the role and the company and explain how you’ll be valuable and help them excel.

Be ready. There are various ways an employer can ask this question; they include:

Why are you the best candidate for this position?
Why are you a good fit for this position?
What makes you feel like you would exceed in this role?
Why should we hire you over other applicants?
Why do you think this position is a good fit for you?
What makes you a good candidate for this position?
Can you describe why you’re the ideal candidate for this position?
Why should we hire you for this role?

With all these situational interview questions, the employer is digging for the same information. They want to hear the best reason you feel qualified for the job.

Next, we’ll show you how to craft a clever response!

How to answer “Why should we hire you?” + examples

To answer this question, one must first prepare. Get yourself ready by following some of these tips for responding and the examples below.

Tip #1: Sell your top skills.
Revisit the job description to identify the key skills, resume keywords and job responsibilities.

Then, match your top resume skills and work experience with the top two or three job requirements or characteristics requested. Explain how your skills meet the role’s demands.

Example response featuring skills:
“I believe you should hire me because, as a teacher, I bring a combination of expertise in creative curriculum design, proven classroom management strategies, and a passion for fostering literacy and critical thinking skills. My ability to design engaging, standards-aligned lessons has consistently helped students significantly improve their reading and writing abilities. My classroom management techniques also ensure a respectful and focused learning environment, facilitating group and individual learning experiences. My dedication to nurturing a love for English in young learners aligns perfectly with your school’s mission to develop well-rounded and thoughtful students.”

Tip #2: Understand the values of the hiring organization.
The more you know about the job or company, the stronger your answer will be. Look for clues about company culture on their website and social media channels, and ask for any connections you have with those who work there.

Tie your values to the company’s. That way, they’ll feel like you’ll fit with the company and that the job is close to your heart.

Example response mirroring company values:
“I believe you should hire me because my experience and skills in customer service and sales align closely with the dynamic needs of your car dealership. In my previous role, I consistently exceeded sales targets by creating personalized experiences for each customer, increasing sales and enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. This approach fits well with your company’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and building long-term client relationships.”

Tip #3: Showcase enthusiasm.
Showing your passion or excitement for an opportunity can convey the sense that you will work hard for the employer. So, when you’re speaking, include resume action verbs and words that express your enthusiasm, like “motivated,” “eager” or “passionate.”

Keep a positive and hopeful vibe about what you hope to achieve for the company. Try to sound both friendly and hard-working.

Example response showing enthusiasm:
“I am passionate about delivering high-quality care and believe my exceptional clinical skills, strong patient advocacy, and dedication to continual learning make me an excellent fit for your team. My clinical experience has equipped me to handle complex situations with confidence and care, ensuring patient safety and optimal outcomes. I am deeply committed to advocating for patients’ needs, which has consistently improved patient satisfaction scores in my previous roles. Most importantly, I am eager to continue growing professionally and am excited about the opportunities to do so within your innovative healthcare environment.”

Tip #4: Use numbers if possible.
The question “Why are you the best candidate for this position?” often comes up in industries like sales or finance, where you must prove your value by producing hard results.

If the job you’re applying for is in a numbers-focused industry, be sure your response includes some career statistics showing the results you achieve.

Example response using numbers:

“I am confident that my strong analytical skills, precision in financial reporting, and expertise in tax planning make me a valuable addition to your team. In my previous role, I managed a portfolio of over $40 million, where my attention to detail and accuracy reduced reporting errors by 92%. My proactive approach to tax planning has saved past employers significant amounts in potential tax liabilities, ensuring compliance and maximizing financial performance. I am excited about bringing this same diligence and expertise to your company, contributing to your financial efficiency and growth.”

Tip #5: Tell a story
Telling a convincing anecdote about a work achievement is a clever strategy. That way, an employer can hear about your approach and its effects on business.

Be honest in your storytelling, but show how your work brought success to a past employer. Then, express interest in bringing those skills to the new company.

It’s a similar messaging approach you may have used when building a cover letter.

Example response telling a story:
“I am confident that my unwavering dedication and proven creative problem-solving skills make me an ideal candidate for this opportunity. In my last role, when our office faced a significant scheduling conflict involving multiple executives, I innovated a real-time digital coordination system that streamlined communications and resolved the issue efficiently, preventing disruptions to our operations. This initiative saved time and enhanced the overall organizational workflow, which was crucial during a high-stakes project. My proactive approach and commitment to operational excellence ensure I can effectively support and enhance your team’s productivity.”

Tip #6: Show you’re a team player.
It can be easy to forget others when an employer asks a self-focused question like, “Can you describe why you’re the ideal candidate for this position?” Mentioning how you work with others will help employers see your self-awareness, humility and agreeableness.

So, if you’re applying for a job that requires you to work in team settings like retail, hospitality, or marketing, you should be sure to discuss your ability to work with others.

Example of a team-focused answer:
“I am a strong team player with a proven track record of working effectively with diverse groups to achieve operational goals efficiently. My adaptability and willingness to embrace new methods allow me to adjust quickly to changing work environments and protocols, which is crucial in a dynamic warehouse setting. I excel at following instructions precisely and take pride in executing tasks accurately to contribute to the team’s success. My commitment to team goals and reliable performance make me a valuable asset to your warehouse operations.”

Tip 7# Be unique.
Make an impression on the hiring managers by telling them something memorable or unique about yourself to grab their attention. It will help you stand out from other candidates.

Try to focus on special training, gifts or recognitions that distinguish you. But skip this tactic if it feels forced or hard to justify what separates you.

Example response that shows candidate uniqueness:
“My unique approach to digital marketing combines deep analytical insights with a strong creative vision, allowing me to develop highly effective and innovative campaigns. For example, I spearheaded a campaign that leveraged custom, interactive content and visually striking social media tactics, resulting in a 200% increase in brand engagement in just three months. This success was about understanding and creatively interpreting the data to connect meaningfully with the audience. My ability to craft distinctive and engaging strategies makes me an invaluable asset to your team.”

12 “Why should we hire you?” example answers by job title

Here are more examples of proper responses organized by job type.

We also have an epic library of resume examples and cover letter examples if it’s helpful for you to see how other professionals describe their work!

Manager

Example answer:

“I am the best candidate for this management position because of my extensive experience leading diverse teams to exceed company goals consistently. My proactive management style has been instrumental in reducing costs by 15% while increasing productivity by 25% in my previous role. I excel in strategic planning and problem-solving, ensuring the team remains focused and efficient under pressure. My commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture aligns perfectly with your company’s values.”

Why this works:

It demonstrates proven leadership with specific performance improvements, directly aligning with the company’s goals of enhancing productivity and fostering an inclusive environment.

Team Member

“My collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence make me the best candidate for this team member position. I thrive in team-based environments and have been commended for my ability to contribute to and enhance team dynamics. My previous experience includes completing projects under tight deadlines and adapting quickly to changing priorities. My proactive communication and positive attitude facilitate effective teamwork and project success.”

Why his works: It focuses on collaborative spirit and adaptability, underscoring the candidate’s readiness to contribute to and thrive in team-based projects.

Server

“My experience as a server has equipped me with the ability to handle high-pressure environments while maintaining excellent customer service. I’ve received many compliments for remembering repeat customers’ preferences, personalizing their dining experience and getting positive mentions in online reviews. My quick adaptability and efficient problem-solving skills ensure smooth operations even during peak hours. These strengths and my genuine hospitality passion make me the ideal candidate for this role.”

Why this works: It emphasizes customer service skills, including personalization and adaptability, illustrating how the candidate’s approach directly boosts customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Babysitter

“I am the best candidate for this babysitting position due to my nurturing nature and extensive experience in child care, including special needs education. I’ve developed engaging and educational activities favored by children and parents, leading to 100% client satisfaction. My first aid and CPR certifications ensure I can provide a safe and secure environment. My dedication to fostering a supportive and fun atmosphere makes me the perfect fit for your family’s needs.”

Why this works: It showcases specialized skills and a commitment to safety and development, aligning with parents’ primary concerns for childcare.

Receptionist

“My previous experience as a receptionist has honed my ability to manage front desk operations with efficiency and a welcoming smile. I am skilled in handling complex scheduling systems and high-volume call management, ensuring that all visitors receive prompt and courteous attention. My attention to detail and organizational skills contribute to maintaining an orderly and friendly office environment. My proactive approach and strong communication skills will make a significant positive impact on your team.

Why this works: It combines efficient administrative support with excellent interpersonal skills, crucial for creating a positive first impression at the front desk.

Crew Member

“As a dedicated crew member, I bring a strong work ethic and a commitment to quality that has consistently earned me accolades in previous positions. My ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt quickly to new tasks makes me a valuable asset to any team. I take pride in maintaining a clean and safe work environment, which enhances overall productivity and team morale. My enthusiasm and team-oriented attitude make me the best candidate for this role.”

Why this works: It points to a strong work ethic and team-oriented attitude, highlighting the candidate’s ability to enhance team morale and productivity.

Supervisor

“My extensive experience supervising teams across various projects has equipped me with the leadership skills to inspire and drive high performance. I excel in conflict resolution and team building, which ensures a harmonious and productive workplace. Under my supervision, team productivity increased by over 30%, a testament to my effective management style and motivational techniques. My commitment to achieving company objectives and enhancing employee engagement makes me the ideal supervisor for your team.”

Why this works: It emphasizes leadership and conflict resolution skills, showcasing effectiveness in boosting team performance and workplace harmony.

Customer Service Manager
“My four years of customer service experience and managing a team of 20 reps has given me perspective on your customer service manager job. I’m very driven by goals, and my enthusiasm helps motivate and inspire my team. Last year, we ranked in the country’s top five customer service centers. I recruited and trained 100 new reps over three years and would also enjoy helping grow your teams here. But I’m more than just a people person. I’ve created and managed budgets as well. People call me an effective communicator and leader who isn’t afraid to get my hands dirty. I look forward to contributing in similar ways here.”

Why this works:

It highlights precise organizational improvements and proactive task management, showcasing the candidate’s ability to significantly enhance office efficiency.

Software Engineer

“My thorough understanding of modern programming languages and frameworks sets me apart as a software engineer. In my last project, I have contributed to developing scalable applications that improved user experience and functionality, leading to a 30% increase in customer satisfaction. My strong analytical skills and methodical approach enable me to solve complex problems efficiently. My passion for technology and continuous learning ensures I remain at the cutting edge of software development.”

Why this works: It details the candidate’s technical skills and contributions to user experience improvements, highlighting their capability to drive innovation and efficiency in software projects.

Project Manager

“I am an experienced project manager with a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. My expertise in agile methodologies and risk management has enabled my previous teams to enhance productivity by 40%. I excel in stakeholder communication, ensuring that all parties are aligned with the project goals and updates. My strategic planning and leadership skills make me the best candidate to lead your projects toward successful completion.”

Why this works: It shows mastery in agile methodologies and stakeholder communication skills, positioning the candidate as a leader who can steer projects to successful and timely completion.

11. Executive Director

“I am the ideal candidate for Executive Director due to my proven track record in leading organizations through periods of growth and change. My previous leadership role resulted in a 30% increase in operational efficiency and expansion into three new markets. I am strongly committed to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, which aligns with your organization’s strategic goals. My stakeholder engagement and strategic planning expertise will drive your organization forward.”

Why this works: It highlights strategic leadership and a proven track record in operational expansion, aligning with the goals of leading and growing an organization.

Intern

“I am an excellent candidate for the intern position, bringing a strong academic background and leadership experience from university projects, including a significant increase in club membership through strategic initiatives. My proactive approach and eagerness to apply theoretical knowledge in practical environments set me apart. I am adaptable and eager to tackle new challenges, making me a valuable addition to your team. I look forward to contributing creatively and learning from industry leaders within your organization.”

Why this works: It demonstrates a proactive approach and a strong foundation in leadership through academic and extracurricular activities, preparing the candidate to make an immediate positive impact as an intern.

Mistakes to avoid

Your answer to “Why are you the best candidate for this position?” can make or break your candidacy. Avoid the “break” possibility by avoiding these mistakes and pitfalls.

Don’t be generic.
Do not give a vague answer that could apply to any position or company. Reference how you’ve used the specific skills requested in the job posting.
Don’t underrepresent your skills or experience.
Even if you have shared your skills, experience, and characteristics previously, do not try to breeze over this question. This is another chance to reiterate why you are the match for the role.
Don’t ramble.
Try not to give overly lengthy examples or include too much information. Be concise and relevant. A good rule of thumb is aiming for an answer that lasts about a minute. Practicing your answer out loud will help you refine it. Let’s repeat that one — practicing your answer out loud will help you refine it.
Don’t bad mouth others.
Avoid comparing yourself to other candidates or criticizing former coworkers to prove your value.

Key takeaways

Here’s a brief recap of how to ace answering, “Why should we hire you?”

Employers use this question to assess your understanding of the job, your confidence in your abilities, and how well you meet their needs.
Successful responses directly link your soft skills, hard skills and experiences to the job requirements, showcasing your unique qualifications and potential.
Understand the company’s culture and values and best portray your attributes in harmony with the company’s mission.
Expressing genuine enthusiasm and a proactive attitude can significantly enhance your appeal, suggesting you’ll be a motivated and engaging employee.
Incorporating specific numbers and results from past roles provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and potential impact.
Similar to your cover letter, sharing a concise, relevant anecdote in an interview can illustrate your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenges effectively.

Note that it’s best to keep applying for jobs while juggling interviews. You can boost your resume by using our Resume Check, which will analyze it for 30+ mistakes, such as grammar, formatting and completeness.

Just upload your existing resume. Resume Check will review it, rate its strength and offer suggestions for improvement.

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Sources

Central Seattle University: Job Interview Answer: Why Should I Hire You