In one of the interview rounds of a particular company during campus placements in MBA, I was asked the following question:
“Why do you want to work with us?”
I simply told the interviewer how I’d be a good fit and that my skills match those mentioned in the job description.
“But that’s true for any other company. Why us?” He asked.
Luckily, I had browsed the core values mentioned on their website and was able to relate them to my personal values, almost making it sound like it was my childhood dream to work at that company.
Obviously, it wasn’t. He knew it. I knew it.
But there is an underlying principle at play here.
It is the same principle that makes management professors ask “Why MBA?” during the admission interviews.
For such situations, you’ll often be advised not to say that you’re doing it for a higher salary.
Understand: Whether it’s people or organizations – we all want to be wanted. Nobody wants to be needed.
We all want to be appreciated for who we are, rather than the role we have to play.
Nobody wants to think that they’re being chosen because someone ‘needs’ employment or someone ‘needs’ more salary.
They want to believe that they have a deeper role to play in your life.
Imagine one of your friends going through an emotional crises.
How would you feel if you were told: “You need to come over whenever I call; I can’t handle things without you.”
Probably, you’d feel more like a crutch than a valued friend.
But if you’re told: “I’m glad we can talk things through and I always appreciate your perspective,” it would make you feel cherished for your friendship and advice.
It will make you feel wanted for your companionship, and not just utility in times of need.
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At your workplace, on your college campus, and in your personal life – understand that the essence of meaningful relationships is not need, but desire.
Neediness only repels.
So frame your thoughts in a way, that you make them feel wanted for who they are, not just what they can do for you.