Answering the All-Important Graduate Interview Question: “What Can You Bring to the Company?”

“What can you bring to the company?” is a common question asked in most interviews. The goal is simple – you need to convince your interviewer why you’re the best person for the job.  Do not come up with the answer on the spot. You must prepare your answer in advance to ensure you have given yourself the very best opportunity of getting hired.  In this article are some of the main pointers to mention if you are asked this vital question:

1. Research the Company’s Website:

One of the aspects that the interviewer is likely to be looking for is how much you know about the company. As a potential employee, you need to prove that you know your facts and that you’ll easily slot in as a member of the team. You should be learning valuable information such as:

• Mission statement

Some companies will have a key mission statement within their website which will help you understand whether your career aspirations and principles align with the employer. Once you have carried out your research, plan your answer around these core values.

• ‘About Us’ page

All websites contain an ‘About Us’ page which will give you crucial information on the company’s history, culture and the key members of staff you need to be aware of. By integrating some of these factors into your answer, you’ll prove you have done your homework on the company as a whole.

2. Study the Job Description

The job description will list all of the responsibilities and duties related with to the role. Review all of the key responsibilities and how they associate with your experiences from past employment. You should also demonstrate how you can apply your soft skills (such as communication, critical thinking and teamwork) and positive character traits to the role.

3. Your Ambition to Progress in the Company

Employers are typically looking to hire candidates that have the ambition of remaining within the company and progressing through the ranks.  Remember that the organisation is investing valuable time, money and energy into the hiring process: you must show the intention that you’re here to stay, rather than just passing through until a better opportunity comes along. If your CV suggests that you have jumped from job to job, make it clear that you’re now looking for a long-term role.

4. Demonstrate your Excitement for the Position

Employers are looking for a sense of enthusiasm from prospective candidates. Ensure that you don’t look bored or unmotivated. Explain that this job role is an exciting career step for you and is the type of opportunity you have been searching for.

There is no right or wrong answer to this all-important question. However, by making sure you consider the above points when doing your interview preparation, you will have a much more cohesive and inspiring answer.

Inspiring Interns is a recruitment agency specialising in sourcing candidates for all internships and graduate jobs in the UK. If you are looking to hire graduates, gain career advice or browse graduate jobs in the UK, visit our website!