Why Interviewers Ask This Question
- •To assess if you've researched the company
- •To gauge genuine interest vs. desperation for any job
- •To see if your values align with company culture
- •To determine if you understand what makes this company unique
- •To evaluate long-term retention potential
How to Structure Your Answer: MATCH Framework
Show how you and the company are a mutual fit.
- 1
Mission - Connect with company's mission or values
- 2
Achievements - Reference specific company accomplishments
- 3
Talents - Explain how your skills match their needs
- 4
Culture - Show you understand and fit the culture
- 5
Horizon - Share your vision for growth with them
Generic vs. Personalized Answer
Generic Answer
What most candidates say
"I want to work here because you're a great company with an excellent reputation. I think I would be a great fit for your team."
Why this falls short:
- •Could apply to any company
- •No specificity or research demonstrated
- •Focuses on what you want, not what you offer
Personalized Answer
Based on your specific experiences
Your mission to make financial services accessible in underbanked communities aligns with my background. I've followed your engineering blog for two years. Your growth from Series A to C while maintaining 4.7 Glassdoor rating shows sustainable scaling.
Why this works:
- •Personal connection to mission
- •Demonstrates research (blog, funding, ratings)
- •Shows long-term interest
- •Balances what you give and gain
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Not doing research
- •Only mentioning compensation
- •Praising without explaining fit
- •Same answer for all companies
Expert Tips
- •Research 2-3 hours before interview
- •Reference something recent
- •Mention competitors and why you chose this one
The Psychology Behind Interview Success
Daniel Kahneman
Thinking, Fast and Slow (2011)
Your opening answer sets the tone. Practice until your first 30 seconds are polished and confident—it creates a halo effect for everything that follows.
Amy Cuddy
Presence (2015)
Lead with warmth, not just credentials. Smile genuinely, show enthusiasm, acknowledge others' contributions before showcasing your own.
Robert Cialdini
Influence (1984)
Give value in the interview—share insights, offer ideas, show genuine interest in their challenges. Don't just take (ask for job) without giving (demonstrating value).
Elizabeth Loftus
Eyewitness Testimony Research (1970s-present)
Include specific details in your stories (dates, numbers, names). Vague answers feel fabricated; vivid details feel authentic.
From Our Blog
Why IIM Candidates Who Know Everything Still Blank Mid-Answer
You've prepared for months. You know all the current affairs. So why do you freeze when the IIM panel asks a question you definitely know? Here's the working memory problem that destroys candidates.
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