Most interview questions have some hidden meaning. There may be something that the interviewer is trying to learn without explicitly stating it.
Understanding these intricacies will allow you to really focus on what they really want to know and provide a very strong answer.
One of the most common interview questions is, "What makes you qualified for this position?" It may seem like they are trying to shoot you down, but this is actually an excellent opportunity to establish your skills and knowledge.
You are not defending yourself, merely proving yourself.
Points to Emphasize
This question may be your best opportunity to really sell yourself. You should seize the opportunity and lead with your most significant qualifications.
- Find a unique angle to relate. How will you stand out from the many qualified candidates? What will you bring to the table that no one else will?
- You can take this opportunity to highlight the most important part of your resume. Alternatively, you can bring up something that did not fit or belong on your resume.
- This is an excellent time to mention personal experiences. Your resume will outline a more professional side, but offering a personal touch can be very effective.
- It is okay to show off a little. You are essentially selling yourself, after all, so you should put your best foot forward.
Mistakes You Should Avoid
Do not waste this opportunity. There are many mistakes that people make when answering this question. Identify them so you can avoid them.
- Do not be insincere or exaggerate.
- Do not just read your resume to the interviewer. It is okay to highlight the most important part of your qualifications, but remember that they likely have already read it. You should provide something new in your answer.
- Avoid all the typical answers. Simply saying that you work hard and have worked in the industry for a couple of years does not make you unique. This is why a personal touch is so effective.
- Do not brag. It is okay to paint yourself in the best light possible, but there are limits. A prideful answer will not inspire confidence.
Sample Answer
For a strong answer to the question, What makes you qualified for this position try something similar to this:
You can see from my resume that I have over five years of experience in this field, but what might not be clear from my resume is the influence I had on the previous company I worked with. I was responsible for increasing their sales more than any other employee and I intend to bring that same expertise to your company.
