“What do you know about our company?”, this is one of the most common interview question that is used to filter out candidate who will not be a good fit for the company.
Being ready for this question gives you an edge. It proves you’re proactive and excited about the opportunity. Plus, it helps you ask smart questions later in the interview.
This shows you’re truly interested in the role. It also helps you decide if the job is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Research the company thoroughly before your interview
- Highlight key facts about the company’s mission and recent achievements
- Use your knowledge to show genuine interest and ask thoughtful questions
Why Do Employers Ask “What Do You Know About Our Company?”
Employers ask this question to gauge your interest and preparation. They want to see if you’ve done your homework about their organization.
By asking this, hiring managers can:
- Assess your enthusiasm for the role
- Evaluate your research skills
- Determine if you’re a good fit for their company culture
When you show knowledge about the company, it tells the employer you’re serious about the job. It demonstrates your work ethic and attention to detail.
Answering well proves you’ve taken time to understand:
- The company’s mission
- Its products or services
- Recent news or achievements
Your response helps hiring managers picture how you might fit into their team. They’re looking for candidates who align with their company values and goals.
Preparing for this question also helps you. It lets you decide if the company matches your career aspirations. You can better judge if you’d be happy working there.
Common Variations Of “What Do You Know About Our Company?”
Interviewers often ask about your company knowledge in different ways. Here are some common variations you might hear:
- “Tell me what you’ve learned about us.”
- “Why are you interested in working here?”
- “What made you apply to our company?”
For non-profits, you might get asked:
- “What do you know about our mission?”
- “How familiar are you with our community impact?”
Locally owned businesses may ask:
- “What do you know about our history in this area?”
- “How do you think we compare to larger competitors?”
In software development interviews, expect questions like:
- “What do you know about our tech stack?”
- “Are you familiar with our recent projects?”
For companies focused on craft and community:
- “What have you heard about our company culture?”
- “How do you see yourself fitting in here?”
And the list goes on… these questions aim to gauge your interest and research. Prepare thoughtful answers to show you’re truly excited about the opportunity.
Guide On How To Answer “What Do You Know About Our Company?”
Preparing for this question shows your interest and initiative. It helps you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the role and company.
Step 1: Research The Company
Start with the company website. Look at their “About Us” page and mission statement. Note key facts about their history, values, and goals.
Pay attention to recent news or product launches. This shows you’re up-to-date on their activities.
Make a list of things that excite you about the company. Your enthusiasm will shine through in the interview.
Step 2: Check Their Social
Check out their social media channels. See what kind of content they post and how they interact with customers.
Look for any recent achievements or awards. These can be great talking points.
Research their target demographic. Understanding who they serve helps you align your skills with their needs.
Step 3: Check The News
Use Google News to find recent articles about the company. This gives you insight into their current situation and future plans.
Look into their competitors. Knowing the industry landscape shows you’ve done your homework.
Make note of any challenges the company or industry is facing. This can lead to thoughtful questions later.
Step 4: Find Some Facts and Figures
Prepare specific facts and figures. Instead of saying “You’re a big company,” say “You have over 5,000 employees in 20 countries.”
Use the STAR method to connect your skills to the company’s needs. Think of situations where you’ve solved similar problems.
Practice your answer out loud. This helps you sound natural and confident during the interview.
Step 5: Link Their Value to Your Career Goals
Be ready to discuss why you’re interested in the company. Link their values or mission to your own career goals.
Prepare a few questions based on your research. This shows you’re engaged and eager to learn more.
Keep your answer concise but informative. Aim for about 2-3 key points that show your knowledge and enthusiasm.
Remember, your goal is to show genuine interest in the company. Your research demonstrates initiative and helps you stand out as a candidate.
Best Example Answers To “What Do You Know About Our Company?”
Preparing strong answers to this common interview question can set you apart. Here are some examples tailored to different career stages and situations.
Example Answer For A Recent Graduate
“Your company is a leader in sustainable energy solutions. I’m impressed by your recent solar panel project that powers 10,000 homes. Your commitment to reducing carbon emissions aligns with my environmental engineering degree. I’m excited about your internship program for new graduates and the chance to contribute to your upcoming wind farm initiative.”
This answer shows:
- Research on recent company projects
- Connection to personal background
- Interest in specific company programs
Example Answer For An Experienced Candidate
“I’ve followed your company’s growth for years. Your expansion into the Asian market last year was impressive, especially the partnership with local suppliers. I admire your focus on ethical sourcing and fair labor practices. My 10 years in international trade could help strengthen these initiatives. I’m particularly interested in your new eco-friendly packaging line.”
Key points:
- Knowledge of company history and recent developments
- Alignment of personal values with company practices
- Specific ideas for potential contributions
Example Answer For Applying For A Leadership Position
“Your company is known for innovation in the tech industry. I’m impressed by your recent AI-driven customer service platform. Your commitment to employee development, like the leadership training program, is admirable. My experience leading diverse teams could help drive your global expansion plans. I’m excited about your goal to increase market share by 15% next year.”
This response demonstrates:
- Awareness of company products and goals
- Interest in internal company culture
- Clear connection between personal skills and company needs
Example Answer For An Industry Change
“While I’m new to the healthcare sector, I’ve researched your company extensively. Your patient-first approach and recent telemedicine initiative are impressive. My background in customer service aligns with your commitment to patient satisfaction. I’m eager to apply my skills to your upcoming wellness education program.”
This answer shows:
- Honest acknowledgment of industry shift
- Research on company values and recent projects
- Connection between transferable skills and company needs
Example Answer For A Career Change
“Your company’s work in renewable energy caught my attention. I’m impressed by your recent solar panel project that increased efficiency by 30%. While my background is in finance, I’m passionate about sustainability. My skills in data analysis could contribute to your cost-reduction initiatives. I’m excited about your mentorship program for career changers.”
Key elements:
- Specific knowledge of company achievements
- Clear link between past experience and new field
- Interest in company programs that support career transitions
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