Why employers ask, how did you hear about this position?
It’s a question that’s often asked at interviews, either before or after your chat, and it’s a question for which there’s an answer.
Employers might ask, ‘How did you hear about this position?’ to get an idea of how effectively their recruitment materials are working.
They’ll also want to know which sorts of media — be job boards, ads, social media, or headhunters — are attracting candidates.
The reason that employers ask this question is to get an idea of how popular the company is and how they should focus their advertising efforts.
If no one within the company knows you, you need to share how your background or experience matches the specific job opening.
If the answer doesn’t tally with the employers’ own records, they’ll want to know why.
But do not lie. Don’t say you heard about a job at a company through an ad, when really you heard about it through a friend.
If the employers find out, your credibility will be shot, and they’ll be reluctant to take you on.
How to answer ‘How did you hear about this position?’
Think about when you’ll answer this question.
If you’re asked it straight after your chat, don’t launch into an answer.
But if you’re asked the same question after you’ve left, feel free to give them an off-the-cuff response.
There’s bound to be a reason why you’re at the interview, so you should be able to come up with an answer.
1. Show your excitement
The interviewer wants to know how interested you are in the job. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm.
Samples:
I was so excited when I found out about this job opening! It is exactly what I was looking for. I have some friends that work at your company, and they told me how much they love working here. I think this job would be a great fit for me.
It was so great when my friend told me about your position! She told me that your company is a great place to work and that you really value your employees. I would love to work for a company like this.
2. Name-drop, if possible
Dropping names often instills a sense of trust in the interviewer, and giving references helps build your case for being employed.
I talked to my co-worker, Jane, about your company. She was really excited about the culture there, and she told me that I should definitely apply. Jane told me that she loved working at your company and that the company really cares about its employees.
I actually applied for a job with your company last year. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the job, but I really liked the interviewer. They were so nice and really took the time to get to know me. I was really impressed. So when I saw this job posting, I knew I had to apply!
3. Be specific
Being specific tells the interviewer that you’re truthful and honest. It also indicates that you’re clearheaded and have done your research about the job.
I saw your job posting online. I found the job description really intriguing.
I saw the job advertised on Monster.com.
I saw your job posting on Indeed.com.
I saw your job posting on LinkedIn.com.
Example answers
Example 1: From an employee
My roommate’s cousin works for your company. He raved about the job and how much he loved it. That made me want to work there even more.
Example 2: From an online job posting
I saw the job on QJobs.com, and I found the description to be very intriguing. I felt like there was a lot to learn from the company, and a lot I can contribute to the company’s growth.
Example 3: From the company website
It’s funny, I was actually looking online to see what else was out there. Then, I saw your posting, and I just knew right away that it was meant for me. I know that your company has a great reputation in (role) circles. I’m really excited about the prospect of working for this company.
Example 4: From a recruiter
A recruiter found my profile interesting and reached out to me via (email/LinkedIn). I further enquired and found the profile fascinating!
