This question gives you an opportunity to sell yourself. Think yourself as a product and ask yourself why anybody should buy you.
You may be satisfied with a simple answer such as 'I need the job' or 'I have the qualifications to get it'. But the employer expects you to say what you can offer to the company.
You may also say that you are a hard worker and really want to work for this company. Many candidates give the same answer. And why this company?
The right track
You may say, 'I am a good fit for the position'. You may be on the track and the interviewer may prod you to elaborate.
If you say, 'I have the skill to solve problems and do the job'. You are better. Expand your answer and you may land the job.
Make a sales statement
The more you elaborate the nearer you are to clinching the job. This is the time for you to summarize your accomplishments; and it is not for talking about your needs and wants. Tell the interviewer how different you are from others.
Inventory exercise
What the hiring manager is interested in is what have to give the company. Look at the job description and see how you can do the job. Make a list of the job requirements and make an inventory to match your qualifications and skills to the job requirements. Identify one or two skills you have that match those the employer is seeking. Don't forget the personal traits that give you a unique status; your drive, energy, style of working and people skills are needed for any job.
Make the sales pitch
Select a few requirements that match what you can offer and merge them to make a statement; meaning you have to prepare the pitch to sell your skills and accomplishments. Take about two minutes to tell your story as to how you are the right fit for the job and in what way you would add value to the company's working.
For example you can say, "I think you are looking for one who can take immediate charge. It seems you have some database systems problems. With my seven-year experience in the field of databases, I can streamline the system and solve the problem that is bugging your system.
My skill to learn quickly had helped me solve the problems immediately. My colleagues respect me as a team player with a positive attitude and outlook. I have the focus to stay cool even in extremely stressful situations. I am confident that I would come to your expectations.
How you are unique
If you think a bit on the issue of you being unique, you will get focused on your unique qualities and skills that make you stand out from others.
Let the hiring manager know that you are aware of the problem the company has been experiencing and you have the needed knowhow to do the job. Send the message across that you are the solution to the problem.
