Article By: Michael Bourland

So if I’m the employer, tell me, Why Should I Hire YOU?

If you’ve had more than one or two job interviews in your life, you’ve undoubtedly become quite familiar with this “pass or fail” question. If you’re not familiar with it yet, here’s your chance to gain the upper-hand when you finally do face the number one most determining question in the history of job interviews.

So tell me, WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU?

Though the work place has definitely become a much more relaxed atmosphere over the last few years, the interview is the one time and place where you (the job seeker) should remember to keep things “strictly business”. This doesn’t mean to avoid answering questions about your personal interests, but keep them short and if you can, mention the interests that are closely related to the job you are interviewing for.

When you are asked this question, avoid the “box lunch-menu” style of answer that everyone uses; “I’m a hard worker”, I’m a team player”, “I’m a quick learner”, YADA-YADA-YADA.

The above mentioned traits are all good to include in your answer, but your answer should flow like a bed time story and remember to stay focused on what the interviewer would be concerned with after you are hired.

• Your attitude
• Your current related skill set
• Are you teachable (ability AND desire)
• Will you go the extra mile (for the company, not just for the paycheck)
• Will you bring value to the Company (will you be profitable, asset vs. liability)

One of the most impressive things you can do (if you are not currently familiar with the industry) is to do some research about the industry(ies) that the company is involved with. It’s also good to know a couple of specifics about your prospective employer and their direct competition.

Always remember that there IS someone else out there who has a better resume, more experience, will work for a lower salary or is just simply having a better day and it shows.

Some final tips to work with and gain yourself the slight edge it may take to get you that job: Try to relax, be up-beat and energetic, SMILE, NO negative comments, don’t get distracted by noise or activities going on around you and don’t be afraid compliment your interviewer on something you like about them or there office. (BUT BE REAL ABOUT IT!!! Never fake the compliment)

There are some great books available that go into detail on how to get AND keep a great job. What Does Somebody Have To Do Around Here To Get A Job? 10 Insider Secrets To A Winning Job Search. Or How’d you Score That Gig?

The investment will pay for itself thousands of times over, SO GO AHEAD AND GRAB ONE, BEFOR THE OTHER GIRL/GUY GRABS YOUR JOB!

Interviews Can Be Stressful - So Here’s A Really Funny One (See Real Tips Below)

If You Watched The Video Above, You Can Stop Laughing Now…

Here Are REAL Tips To Remember:

And Here Are Important Questions You Should Ask: