When it comes to job interviews, the question "What makes you a good candidate?" employers frequently ask this question.

The question highlights your relevant qualifications, skills, and experience for the applied position.

This article will provide expert tips on how to stand out as the best candidate for a job.

Why employers ask what makes you a good candidate

Before we delve into how to answer this question, let's first understand why employers ask it in the first place.

Hiring managers want to know what sets you apart from other applicants and why they should consider you for the position.

Employers seek insight into your qualifications, skills, and experience when you pose this inquiry to determine if you are the best candidate.

Example answers to "What makes you a good candidate?"

• Executive Assistant
• Nurse
• Computer programmer
• Lawyer

Executive Assistant

If you want to apply for the executive assistant position, you can focus on your strong organizational and communication skills. 

You can mention your experience in managing multiple tasks, coordinating schedules, and handling sensitive information.

Computer programmer

As a computer programmer, emphasize your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.

Talk about your experience in coding languages, software development, and your ability to work collaboratively in a team.

Nurse

For a nursing position, emphasize your compassion, empathy, and attention to detail.

Talk about your experience in patient care, administering medications, and working effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Lawyer

If you are applying for a lawyer position, highlight your strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to interpret complex legal documents. Emphasize your ability to communicate persuasively and present strong arguments.

Teacher

When applying for a teaching position, focus on your passion for education, classroom management skills, and ability to connect with students.

Talk about your experience in lesson planning, implementing innovative teaching methods, and fostering a positive learning environment. 

How to prepare an answer to "What makes you a good candidate?"

• Determine your strengths
• Identify the company's needs.
• Create your shortlist
• Write your pitch
• Practice your answer

Determine your strengths

Before the interview, take some time to self-reflect and identify the strengths that make you a strong candidate for the job.

These strengths can include your relevant skills, qualifications, experience, and personal qualities that align with the job requirements.

Identify the company's needs.

Research the company and the job description to understand what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Identify the key skills, qualifications, and attributes they value the most. It will help you tailor your answer to highlight how you meet the company's needs.

Create your shortlist

Based on your self-reflection and the company's needs, create a shortlist of the qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you the best fit for the position. 

Prioritize the most relevant skills to the job and differentiate you from other candidates.

Write your pitch

Craft a compelling pitch using your shortlist highlighting your qualifications, skills, and experiences.

Structure your answer by providing specific examples and demonstrating your ability to bring value to the company.

Practice delivering your pitch to ensure it flows smoothly and confidently.

Practice your answer

Once you have written your pitch, practice it multiple times to improve your delivery.

Pay attention to your tone, body language, and confidence level.

Practice with a friend or family member who can provide constructive feedback on your answer.

Tips for answering "What makes you a good candidate?"

Here are some expert tips to help you answer the question "What makes you a good candidate?" effectively:

1. Be specific: Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate how your skills and qualifications make you the best fit for the job.
2. Highlight your unique qualities: Emphasize what sets you apart from other candidates and makes you stand out as the best candidate for this job.
3. Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate your passion for the industry and the position you are applying for. Employers value candidates who are genuinely interested and enthusiastic about the job.
4. Align with the company culture: Research the company's values and culture, and try to align your answer with them. Show how your values and work ethic align with the company's values.
5. Be confident but humble: Showcase your strengths and accomplishments confidently and acknowledge the areas where you have room for growth and improvement.

Related questions

While "What makes you a good candidate?" is a common question, there are other related questions that you may be asked during a job interview:

• Why should we hire you?
• Why are you the best person for this job?
• What can you bring to our team?

These questions all serve the same purpose of assessing your qualifications and fit for the job.

Use the tips and examples in this article to prepare your answers to these related questions.

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If you found this article helpful, check out our other articles on job interviews, resume writing, and career development.

We have many resources to help you succeed in your job search and career advancement.

What makes you a good candidate for this position?

As a candidate for this position, I possess the qualifications and skills required. I have a proven track record of success in my previous job, which is aligned with the requirements of this position. 

How can I answer this question effectively during an interview?

To effectively answer this question during an interview, highlight your relevant experience and accomplishments that directly relate to the position you're applying for.

What are some sample answers to this question?

Sample answers to this question could include:

1. "I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my strong background in [specific field] and my ability to [specific skill]."

2. "I have a proven track record of success in similar roles, and I am confident I can bring the same level of excellence to this position."

3. "I possess a unique combination of technical expertise and soft skills that make me a perfect fit for this role."

4. "I am highly motivated and have a strong work ethic, which I believe are essential qualities for excelling in this position."

How should I approach answering this question during a job interview?

When answering this question during a job interview, it is important to be confident and concise. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and experience. Avoid generic answers and provide specific examples demonstrating how you are the best person for the job.

What qualities make someone the best candidate for a job?

The best candidate for a job possesses a combination of technical skills and soft skills. Technical skills are specific to the job requirements and demonstrate your ability to perform the tasks. On the other hand, soft skills are interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability.

How can I review the job to determine why I am the best candidate?

To be the best candidate for a job, review the job description and requirements carefully. Compare your qualifications and skills with those required for the role.

What should I practice to answer this question effectively?

To effectively answer this question, it is recommended to practice confidently articulating your skills, qualifications, and accomplishments.

How can I demonstrate that I am the best person for the job?

You can demonstrate that you are the best person for the job by highlighting your specific achievements and accomplishments relevant to the position. Talk about your previous successes and how they align with the job requirements.

How should I answer the interview question, "Why should we hire you?"

When answering the interview question "Why should we hire you?", focus on your unique qualities and how they align with the job requirements. Talk about your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments.