Successfully answering the question “Why you and not someone else?”

It is LA a question that makes many candidates sweat during interviews.
And yet... it can become a tremendous opportunity to shine.

No, it's not a trap.
Yes, it's a great way to show what you have to offer:
• A skill
• An experience
• A language
• Industry knowledge
• Or even... a human quality that makes all the difference!

The secret : look for elements in the advertisement such as:
• “would be a plus”
• “asset”
• “highly recommended”
And turn them into concrete arguments in your response.

I will give you ready-made examples to help you formulate a powerful, clear and credible response.
•Simple formulations
•Mistakes to avoid
•And above all... answers that reassure the recruiter!

«Why you and not someone else?»
This is not a trick question. It seeks to reveal:
• Your ability to know yourself
• Your suitability for the position
• And above all... your added value

What the recruiter wants to know
• «Why are you THE right person for this job?»
• «What will you do better than others?»
• «Do you have something that not all candidates have?»

Example:
«I have already used SAP to consolidate the accounts of a group of 10 subsidiaries. Your advertisement mentions that knowledge of SAP is an advantage, so I am operational from the outset.»

What not to do
• Recite your CV: the recruiter has already read it.
• Being vague: “I am dynamic and motivated.”
• Comparing others (“I am surely more competent than...”)

What to do
• Match your skills to their needs
• Support with concrete results
• Focus on the positives of the advert 

Example:
• “A second language would be an asset”
• “Knowledge of Swiss law is an advantage”
• “Experience in an international environment highly recommended”

Highlight your strengths: 
Examples to follow depending on the profile:
• “I speak German fluently, which is useful for your German-speaking Swiss customers.”
• “I have worked from home with teams in Zurich, so I am used to remote collaboration.”
• “Your advertisement mentions IFRS as a plus: I have completed specific training on this subject.”

Structured example of a response
Question: Why you and not someone else?
«Because I have already managed financial consolidation in an international group, meeting the tight deadlines associated with monthly closing. I am proficient in SAP and fluent in English, which you describe as assets in your advertisement. I can therefore quickly become self-sufficient.»

Look for the words “desired,” “assets,” and “would be a plus” in the advertisement.”
Prepare concrete examples.
Demonstrate that you are ready to create value immediately.
It's not just a question...
This is an opportunity to distinguish yourself!

Find even more experience sharing and advice on nOur media OSAM Training.