Interviewing? Your answer to this question should wow them!
What do you know about our company? It’s a common question that potential employers ask, especially in job interviews. They ask it for a variety of reasons. Some employers want to make sure you have an adequate understanding of the company within the context of the position to which you are applying. Others ask it to see if you’ve done your research. And there are some employers that ask it to see how much you care about obtaining the position in question, as your answer will speak volumes about the effort you are putting forth to secure the job and illustrate how you are a fit. As a former recruiter, I can tell you that many candidates fell short of my expectations when answering this question. Based on my experience, I feel it’s important to share (in my opinion) the worst answers you can give, a better option, and a great answer that will set you apart from the other candidates.
I consider there to be two terrible answers to this question. The first one is, “I don’t know anything.” Sometimes it’s followed-up with a cheerful, “but I’d love to know more and was hoping you’d tell me!” However, at that point the damage is done and no amount of enthusiasm will make me forget that you showed up for an interview at my company and have no idea what our business is all about. How can you convince me that you are a fit for the position and will provide value if you don’t even know what we do? Another dreadful answer is one that is totally incorrect. Some candidates either don’t do their research or come into the interview very nervous, and when asked this question make up an answer that is just plain wrong. Again, that is a major red flag for an employer.
Now that you know what not to do, let’s dive into a better option. Start with an overview of your understanding of the company that is based on research. You can include an explanation of the company’s core business/products/services, leadership, locations, history, size, position in the marketplace, and (positive) professional reputation (include this last item only if genuinely true). You can also connect your past experience with the company and its brands, again, if it is positive and true. You will find this basic information from the company’s website, LinkedIn, and even a general search on the internet. In this option you stick to the facts! While there’s nothing technically wrong with the better option, it can fall short in many respects.
A great answer to the question includes the following. First of all, state some facts featured in the previous section to show you did your research and clearly understand the business. Next, show that you went further and sourced more complex information. It can relate to a recent success or recognition in the industry, upcoming innovation, strategic initiatives, or community enrichment. You can obtain this information via Twitter (a company will tweet recent news and what they feel is important to promote), industry news sources, professional associations and organizations, and blogs/news feeds that belong to company leaders. Then, relate the information to your candidacy and illustrate how you can bring value to that organization. For example, you can explain how you were excited to learn about the company’s new composite material product because based on your knowledge of structural engineering (gained from your coursework and internship experience) and your volunteer experience with Habitat for Humanity, you believe it will make a big impact in the construction market to increase energy efficiency and cost effectiveness.
They’re probably going to ask it, so be ready to provide an answer that will wow them! Do your research, consult a variety of sources, understand the impact of the information, and relate it to your candidacy and qualifications. An answer like that will showcase your knowledge and understanding in a way that will set you apart from your competition!
