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Employers always want to know, “What can you contribute to this company?”
When hiring a new employee, companies often look at the candidate’s resume and abilities, but the interview allows them to assess the candidate’s suitability for the position in more nuanced ways. Answering a question like “What can you contribute to this company?” can reveal a lot about you, including your feelings about the company’s culture, work ethic, attitude towards teamwork, and how you plan to contribute to the position.
Posing the question, “What can you contribute to the company?” allows interviewers to evaluate several key aspects:
1. How well your background aligns with the requirements of the position.
2. Your confidence in your skills.
3. Potential outcomes if they choose to hire you.
4. How well you fit with the company’s ethos.
When you answer this question, they are looking to hear a few specific things:
1. The results of your research on the company: Your response should demonstrate how thoroughly you have studied the company and the position to identify your strengths.
2. Enthusiasm and dedication: They want to see that you are passionate about the role and can explain why you would excel in it.
3. One unique selling point: While the question doesn’t explicitly ask for it, it’s a great way to showcase what sets you apart from other candidates. If it’s genuine and relevant to the position, highlighting a unique attribute or talent can make you stand out.
By thinking about this question and how you want to answer it in advance, you can reflect on your work history and recall specific responsibilities and achievements that showcase your value to past employers.
Approaches to answering “What can you contribute to this company?”:
Asking this question provides an opportunity to provide more details and examples that support the information in your resume. Here are some strategies for crafting a compelling response:
1. Highlight your skills: While your resume may list your skills, expand on how you have used these skills to contribute to a company’s success. Instead of just stating, “I have excellent communication skills,” provide specific examples of how you utilized these skills in previous roles.
2. Align your abilities with the position: Show that you have done your homework about the company, its values, and the role you are applying for. Share your goals for the position and explain how your past experiences have prepared you for this role.
3. Provide concrete examples: If you have experience managing projects or teams, discuss specific projects in depth on your resume. Highlight achievements such as meeting deadlines, receiving positive feedback, winning awards, or increasing revenues. Use data to support your claims about your past performance.
Examples of responses:
The best approach to answering this question depends on your abilities and the position you are seeking. Here are three examples of responses for different occupations:
1. Administrative assistant:
“In my previous role in a fast-paced office, I honed my multitasking skills. I managed the schedules of four executives and handled various duties as needed. I am adaptable and able to prioritize tasks effectively. Your company’s dedication to excellence aligns with my work ethic, and I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to help you achieve your goals.”
2. Project manager:
“At my previous employer, I led a project to create an online marketplace connecting local craftspeople with consumers. The project was completed ahead of schedule, and we received positive feedback from a prominent design blog. I believe that my enthusiasm and determination will be valuable assets in supporting innovative commercial endeavors at your company.”
3. Salesman:
“I was recognized for my sales abilities at my previous job, receiving the Top Regional Sales Award for bringing in new clients. I enjoy the challenges of meeting clients in various locations and providing tailored recommendations based on my knowledge of your company’s products. I am excited about the opportunity to make connections and contribute to the growth of your sales team.”
In conclusion, when responding to the question, “What can you contribute to this company?” it is essential to showcase your unique skills, align them with the position you are applying for, and provide concrete examples to demonstrate your value. By approaching this question thoughtfully and strategically, you can leave a lasting impression on potential employers and increase your chances of securing the position you desire.
