Now why do you want to know about that

I've seen your work in theatrical production, and your behind-the-scenes video really inspired me because I saw the teamwork in action. I love working with a team to achieve a common goal, and I know my background in production has prepared me for this role.

I look forward to becoming a valued contributor to this phenomenal team. Explanation: This response delivers everything, gift-wrapped and tied with a bow, to the hiring manager. The candidate then relates it to their personal values and previous experience to drive home the point that there is no better person for the team.

I read an article a few months back on the outreach your company does within the community. Giving back and volunteering is a significant part of my own personal values, and I remember feeling excited that a company values the community as much as I do.

That excitement grew when I saw there was a job opening in my field here. I would really love coming to work each day, knowing that I am helping to make a difference in the community through my work here. Explanation: By responding with the values that are important and demonstrating how those align with the company, this candidate is showing that they would be delighted and fulfilled working at this company.

In turn, the candidate will likely be more engaged and remain at the organization long-term. The hiring manager will love to hear responses like this. I have used your software for many years and am consistently impressed with the innovation and developments made in the space. I also appreciate your dedication to education, providing your customers with free demos to learn how to use your products effectively. I would love to be a part of this innovative team and use my skills to continue the groundbreaking work you are doing here.

Explanation: The candidate directly refers to the quality of the company's products here, which is flattering for the hiring manager to hear.

As a user of the products, this candidate demonstrates that they are already knowledgeable about what the company does, and how much they want to be a part of the team. I've seen your company consistently listed as one of the top places to work. I've read employee testimonials and heard of your enthusiasm for encouraging employee growth through education, training, and vast resources.

I already know that engaged employees produce better work, and that is evident in the most recent campaign you created. I would love to join your innovative team, continue to create great work, and grow within the company by learning new skills. Explanation: Speaking to the reputation of the company is something that the hiring manager will love, as they are working hard to make their company a better place to work and getting recognized for their efforts is something they will like to hear.

It's important to take it a step further than just speaking to what's in it for the candidate. This response is excellent at then highlighting what the employee can bring — through experience and innovation — and continue to develop.

I have a friend that works in the accounting department, and he told me that the culture here is top notch and that management supports continuing education and learning on the job while rewarding hard work. Based on his assessment and encouragement, I think that I would fit in perfectly with the team here to make an immediate impact. Explanation: By already knowing somebody who works at the company, the candidate has an automatic leg up because they can speak to direct perks that their colleague referenced.

By demonstrating that there is a built-in network, the hiring manager might be more likely to hire this person because they know the employee will be happy at their company. As a natural innovator, this drew me to the position with your company because I know that I will thrive in a situation where innovation is at the forefront of everything we do. Explanation: For this candidate, the ability to innovate is one of their core values.

In a concise answer, they reveal that they are knowledgeable about the company and that this position suits their natural abilities. This organization is internationally known for the technology products you create, and my experience in technology and developing new products has me intrigued by this position.

I saw that last year you won multiple awards for the new processor you designed, and I would love to be on a team that is collaborative, hardworking, and resourceful. It could be beneficial to add in a small nod to what drew the candidate to this position. After finding out more information about your company from social media, I can clearly see how my goals align with the purposes of the company. There's nothing I love more than when I am working with other engaged individuals towards a common goal, and that's what excited me about working here.

Search Career Advice. Advice Interviews Interview Questions. How to answer, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Caroline Zaayer Kaufman, Monster contributor. Think about where you would like to be five years from now. The job interview is bound to contain a few curveballs because hiring managers want to be sure you can think on your feet.

The more you can prepare in advance, the better your chances are of knocking each question out of the park. Could you use some help getting your answers in shape?

Join Monster for free today. As a member, you'll get valuable interview insights, career advice, and job search tips sent directly to your inbox. You'll learn how to craft smart responses that paint you as a thoughtful candidate, eager to get out there and prove yourself. So while you can't exactly see into the future, you can take a few steps to make sure the forecast looks bright. Related Articles. Browse articles by Find The Right Career Path.