Each Tuesday, the CSE Connect “Top Interviewing Questions Series” will highlight a different question from the CSE Top Interviewing Questions Guide, detailing 1) How the question is typically asked, 2) Why interviewers tend to ask the question and what the interviewer is looking for when asking the question, and 3) Tips for a successful response.
This week’s question is : “Why are you interested in this company?”
How the Question is Typically Asked/Common Variations
- Why are you interested in this company?
- So tell me, why (Company Name)
Why Do Interviewers Ask/What are their Expectations
They want to see that you are genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity, and that you did your research. Your knowledge of the company should extend beyond the information on the company’s website. The best interviews reflect the candidate’s understanding of the company’s history, its values, its industry competitors and peers, and so on.
Tips for Success
Research the company and the job description so that you can speak intelligently about why it appeals to you
Find unique and specific talking points, bonus points if you can bring in details from an informational interview you did
Alumni Connections: Your company research should include whether there are any alumni at the company from Brandeis or your undergraduate institution!
Alumni Advice
“Know the job, know the responsibilities, know the company…know as much as you can, so that when that question comes up, you know the answer”
For practice with this question please visit: Big Interview > Practice > General
Visit the CSE Top Interviewing Questions Guide for more information regarding top general interview questions!
