Answering the Interview Question What Makes You The Ideal Candidate

Answering the Interview Question What Makes You The Ideal CandidateAnswering the Interview Question What Makes You The Ideal Candidate3Regardless of industry or position, interviewers typically pose some tried-and-true questions to every candidate. Thus, most job seekers prepare to get things off on the right foot with a solid response to Tell me about yourself? and know how to handle the dreaded Whats your greatest weakness? without too much sweat.But since an interviews main purpose is finding the best match for the job at hand, perhaps theres no mora important question than What makes you the ideal candidate? When given this golden opportunity, go for the salePresent your best self by thinking about the following in regard to the classic question, What makes you the ideal candidate?PreparationYou know that this question (or a variation such as, Why are you the perfect person for this job?) is likely to arise during the interview, so be ready. Youll be less nervous and come off as a more confident, polished candidate when youve rehearsed what you want to say.Plan it out in advance, says executive coach and career strategist Elizabeth Koraca. To avoid rambling, practice your answer ahead of time. Write it down before the interview. That doesnt mean you have to memorize, but it does mean you will be more prepared and wont be tripping over your words during the interview.Crafting a ResponseNow isnt the time to be humble While, of course, you shouldnt act cocky or inflate the truth, consider this question an opening to proudly discuss your strengths and present them as the solution to the employers needs.Think about what skills you have and how they match up with the requirements and what they are looking for. Focus on any unique skills, how you can help the company, and how you can make your prospective manager look good, Koraca says.Offer details to paint a vivid picture. Real-life examples of how you are the best candidate make a strong impression. Highlight i nstances of your leadership abilities, organizational skills, or whatever other qualities match you to the job description. Then, let the interviewer know youd be happy to provide references who also can speak about what you bring to the table. (Just be sure to contact these people beforehand with some talking points in order to be on the same page.)Stay FocusedFinally, dont spoil this wonderful opportunity to shine by straying off subject. Go ahead and toot your own horn- tastefully presenting good things about yourself does not need tempering with equal time for imperfections.Try to avoid talking about negatives about yourself or any past mistakes, Koraca says.You want them to think that you are the best candidate, so speaking about these things can hurt you.That doesnt mean that you cant answer the question What is your biggest weakness? but wait until they ask you that. Not all interviewers will ask that.