This is one of those broad questions that can take you down the
wrong road unless you have done some thinking about what to say
ahead of time. This question deals with your ability to sell
yourself. Think of yourself as the product. Why should the
customer buy?

Answers that WON'T WORK -

   "Because I need a job." -- This answer is about YOU -- "they" 
   want to know what you can do for "them."

   "I am a hard worker." -- This is a really trite answer -- 
   almost anyone can say he or she is a hard worker.

   "I saw your ad and could do the job." -- This answers lacks 
   passion and purpose.


STRONGER ANSWERS that would get the interviewer's attention --

"Because I have three years experience working with customers in
a very similar environment."

"Because I have what it takes to fill the requirements of this
job - solve customer problems using my excellent customer service
skills."

"Because I have the experience and expertise in the area of
customer support that is required in this position."

This is a time to let the customer (the interviewer) know what
your product (YOU) can do for them and why they should listen to
what you have to offer. The more detail you give the stronger
your answer will be. This is not a time to talk about what you
want. It is a time to summarize your accomplishments and relate
what makes you unique and therefore a viable fit for this
position.


Product Inventory Exercise

Start by looking at the job description or posting. What is the
employer emphasizing as requirements of the job? What will it
take to get the job done? Make a list of those requirements on
one side of a piece of paper.

Next, do an inventory to determine what you have to offer as a
fit against those requirements. List your skills on the other
side of the paper. Think of two or three key qualities you have
to offer that match each requirement that the employer is
seeking. Don't underestimate personal traits that make you unique
-- your energy, personality type, working style, and people
skills.


The Sales Pitch -- You are the Solution

From the list of requirements and your matching list of what you
have to offer, merge the two into a summary statement. This is
your sales pitch. It should be no more than two minutes long and
should stress the traits that make you unique and a good match
for the job.


Example

"With my seven years of experience working with financial
databases, I have saved companies thousands of dollars by
streamlining systems. My high energy, and quick learning style
enable me to hit the ground running and rapidly size up problems.
I have the ability to stay focused in stressful situations, and
can be counted on when the going gets tough. I know I would be a
great addition to your team."

Preparing this statement ahead of the interview will give you the
edge when asked questions like, "Why should we hire you?" or
"What can you bring to this position?" This will be your chance
to let the interviewers know that you are the solution to their
problem. 

Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and an interview
coach. Her books, "Interview Fitness Training Workbook" and
"Boost Your Interview IQ" (McGraw Hill) have sold thousands of
copies world-wide. Receive Carole's FREE 9-week job interview
e-course by visiting  her  web site at: 
http://www.interviewcoach.com  or
http://www.interviewfitnesstraining.com