One of the most common and yet crucial interview questions you can be asked in an interview is: "What do you bring to the company?" While intimidating, this interview question is actually great: because you can showcase your skills, experiences, and what sets you apart.
In this post, we'll share strategies for answering this question effectively, and some examples of how we’d answer this question as a Software Engineer, Hardware Engineer, or Product Manager.
Clearly connect your skills and experiences with the challenges the company is currently facing or the goals they want to achieve. This is probably the best of these four strategies to when answering this interview question! If companies didn’t have problems they needed to solve, they likely wouldn’t be hiring – which means that if you can show how to solve those problems, you’re a much better candidate for the role.
Hopefully during your interviews, you’ve been able to get a sense of the company’s largest problems or growth opportunities and have written these down to address if you’re asked this question.
Tailor your answer to the specific role and company. If you’re not sure what to say off the top of your head, that’s okay – take some time to write some notes down and practice reading them aloud. Showcase how your skills align with specific skills the company is looking for.
Use specific examples to illustrate your contributions and quantify the impact you've made in previous roles. Tell a story and be creative! Did your actions lead to a cost-savings, or an increase in revenue? Share these details. Or perhaps you improved a process significantly, leading to more efficient work practices or less headache for the team. Share those stories and be detailed.
Mention your understanding of the company's values and objectives. You don’t have to go into too much detail here, but you can always say you’re a great fit because of your passion for the industry, or the problem the company is trying to solve. Passion and believing in the company’s products and mission make for the best employees.
As a Software Engineer, your answer to this interview question should focus on your technical prowess and problem-solving skills. Explain how your background aligns with the company's needs and objectives.
Example: "I bring strong proficiency in various programming languages, including Java and Python, coupled with a proven track record of delivering high-quality code within tight deadlines. In my previous role at XYZ Company, I led a team that developed a complex e-commerce platform, resulting in a 30% increase in user engagement within six months. My experience in optimizing code for performance and scalability aligns well with your company's need to grow to meet investor expectations.”
Hardware engineers should emphasize their technical expertise, attention to detail, and experience with designing and developing hardware systems with this interview question. Discuss how your skills complement the company's projects and goals.
Example: "I bring extensive experience in designing and testing hardware components, combined with a deep understanding of cutting-edge technologies in the semiconductor industry. At my previous job with ABC Tech, I played a pivotal role in designing a power-efficient chipset for mobile devices, which contributed to a 20% increase in battery life. My 10years of experience align perfectly with your company's commitment to deliver quality products to customers."
Product managers should highlight their strategic thinking, market insights, and ability to drive successful product launches with this interview question. Tailor your response to demonstrate how your skills can help the company meet its product-market fit objectives.
Example: "I offer a unique blend of strategic thinking and customer-centric approach to product management. In my tenure at ABC Solutions, I spearheaded the development of a new SaaS product that addressed a critical gap in the market. By collaborating closely with both the engineering and marketing teams, we achieved a 40% increase in user adoption within the first year. I believe my knack understanding customer pain points and translating them into successful product strategies will help your company connect more with your customers to deliver a product they want.”
Want more interview tips? Check out our posts on how to answer the interview question "What did you like the least about your last job?" or how to answer the interview question, "Do you have any questions for me?"
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