Why Should We Invest Money in Hiring & Training You?

Variations of the question "Given the investment our company will make in hiring and training you- can you give us a reason to hire you?" are commonly asked in job interviews. This question can feel aggressive and overwhelming for many job candidates. In reality the hiring manager is simply trying to understand what value you feel you'll add to the position and the organization. Since the company will have to invest in you- they want to understand what they'll get in return on that investment.The good news is that you've likely been answering such interview questions in your head since you read the job description. Your desire to apply for the job- the effort you put into your cover letter and resume and general preparation for the interview all lead you to the answer to this question. Ask yourself what drew you to apply for this job and what you picture yourself accomplishing while you're there. Since this is a question that can cause candidates to falter- you'll stand out by being prepared to sell yourself.

How to Answer the 'Given the Investment Our Company Will Make in Hiring and Training You- Can You Give Us a Reason to Hire You?' Interview Question

Tell your story

You are a unique individual with skills acquired over years of distinctive experiences. There is only one you- so use this opportunity to prove that to the hiring manager. Don't just say that you work well under pressure; share an anecdote of a time you proved it. Offering details that show the ways you are uniquely able to fill the role and bolster the organization will set you apart. These stories will share parts of your personality with the hiring manager while convincing them you're worth the investment.

Know your audience

There is a lot of value in knowing who you're interviewing with- even if you can't find out until you begin the interview. Pay attention to the role interviewers hold in the organization- their hierarchy over other roles and anything distinctive about their job title. If you understand the way that your interviewer's job interacts with the position you're up for- you can tailor your answers to the things someone in that role will want to know about you. Direct supervisors- for example- may want to know how much they'll be able to depend on you. Someone in Human Resources may want to get a feel for how easy you are to work with and how well you follow the rules.

Keep your answer topical

While these kinds of interview questions can seem vague and general- your answer shouldn't be. Don't use this as an opportunity to talk about the fact that you want to further your education or your side business baking cupcakes. Focus on true statements that show your direct ability to add value to the job. This doesn't have to be specific to financial value- as a positive contribution to a team or company culture is also a valuable addition. Whenever possible make these tangible contributions and word them that way. Instead of saying you're knowledgeable in the field of Accounts Payable- talk about the ways you developed efficiencies at a previous company and how that eye for detail and creative problem solving will lend itself well to the position at this company.

Sample 'Given the Investment Our Company Will Make in Hiring and Training You- Can You Give Us a Reason to Hire You?' Interview Answers

1. I see that experience traveling abroad would lend itself well to this position. I studied for a year at Cambridge University and had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe and Africa during my time there. I mastered the art of train and boat travel as well as the idiosyncrasies of journeying through countries where I don't speak the native tongue. Not only did I learn a lot about traveling while living abroad- I also had the chance to interact with people from all around the globe. These experiences taught me a great deal about customizing my approach to the person with whom I'm interacting. Over the years this has contributed positively to my managerial skills- and I feel confident I will be able to effectively bring together the team here.2. I know that it's important to reach the sales goal this year. I have a proven track record of meeting and exceeding goals – particularly when sales have been low. When I was working for Company X- sales were flat year over year until I was promoted to the Sales Manager role. Within four months we were growing- and the sales philosophy I taught to the other members of the team continues to serve that company well. I know it can be difficult for a seasoned team to shake things up- and my experience with changing management will help with my approach to that issue here. I'm confident that I have the right mix of sales and project management experience to come on board and effect immediate change.By now you're prepared to answer one of the more commonly asked interview questions- so get out there and take the interview world by storm!