Why employers ask "What do you look for in a company?"
Employers often ask this question so they can understand your goals and priorities and determine if they match with the company's. Your answer may also show how enthusiastic you are.The question of what you're looking for in your next company is likely to be asked during the interview process. To effectively answer this question, consider researching the organization, reflecting on your wants and needs and formulating your response in advance. If this question is asked later in the interview process, refer back to what you have learned about the company and role during earlier interviews.—Genevieve Northup, MBA, SHRM-CP, HCI-SPTDFor example, if you're applying for a position with many opportunities for advancement, you may say you're looking for a place where you can develop your career. The employer may then consider you an ideal candidate. Related: Top 20 Interview Questions (With Sample Answers)
How to answer "What do you look for in a company?"
Here are five steps to consider when responding to this question in an interview:1. Connect your answer to the specific position
A good way to show that you understand the job is to incorporate its duties into your answer. Explain how the company or job you're interviewing for matches your priorities. For example, you might mention being excited about the position's leadership opportunities because you've been developing these skills and want to continue growing in this area.2. Focus on your skills
In your answer, try to highlight your skills and why they make you the best person for the position. Although it's important to know what the position can do for you, it's beneficial to show an interviewer how you can bring value to the company. Related: How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" (Tips and Example Answers)3. Talk about long-term goals
While an interviewer may ask questions about your long-term goals specifically, like asking about your five-year plan, answering "What do you look for in a company?" is another opportunity to bring up the topic. Employers usually have a long-term vision for their company, which may include a vision for the position you're trying to get. Tell the interviewer the long-term goals you'd like to meet in a company so they can see how your goals match up.4. Stay positive
It's vital to have an upbeat approach to your answer because it shows the interviewer that you're confident about your ability to handle the job. When preparing your answer, always strive for positivity. Even if you're discussing an aspect of a past job that didn't work for you, ensure your answer includes an optimistic statement. For example, if you know you don't like open-ended tasks or flexible deadlines, you might tell the interviewer that you're interested in the job because it seems to involve structure and measurable goals.5. Be sincere
Don't feel pressured to pretend you're looking for something you're not simply because you know it's an answer the employer might like.Tie your sense of purpose, your values and your strengths to the job and organization. Be sincere and specific when answering. Avoid drawing parallels that do not exist because that can be seen as disingenuous and may be detrimental if you and the organization are not a good match.—Genevieve Northup, MBA, SHRM-CP, HCI-SPTDThis may lead to you taking a job that isn't a good fit for you or losing a chance for a job that would have been a good fit because the interviewer senses you're not being genuine. Being sincere when answering this question is beneficial for both you and the employer. Related: 21 Job Interview Tips: How To Make a Great Impression