How to Answer “How Did You Hear About This Position?”

Interviews offer the perfect opportunity for an employer to assess a candidate’s job application better. One of the unique questions that an employer might ask in an interview is, “How did you hear about this position?” For an employer, knowing how a candidate heard about the job can give important insight into their interests and motivation to join the team. In this blog, we will discuss in detail the intention behind asking this question and provide some tips on crafting the perfect answer.

How to Prepare Your Answer for “How Did You Hear About This Position?”

While you prepare for a job interview, you must consider preparing an answer to this frequently asked interview question. Here are a few tips for crafting a good response to the question, “How did you hear about this position?”

1. Be Confident and Well-Informed: When you apply for a job, you should be confident about the role and responsibilities of the job you are applying for. Your attitude carries forward to the interview process as well. You should be able to produce a confident reply while answering questions.
2. Be Specific and Avoid Beating Around the Bush: You have to answer the question in a detailed yet specific way. Your response should convey the idea that working for the company will be a unique experience. Share with the employer which websites, networking events, or other sources brought you to the job.
3. Answer with Conviction: Your answer should convince the employer that you have done all the research before applying. Tell the employer about how this role is a great fit for your skillset, experiences, and career ambitions. Mention that it lines up with your long-term objectives for career growth and advancement.

Sample Answers to “How Did You Hear About This Position?

Read on to craft a good and convincing response to this interview question with the help of some sample answers.

1. Referral

Take a look at the sample responses if you apply for a job through referrals:

Sample Answer 1: “I learned about the [position’s name] from a recruiter who is already working here. I was drawn to the company’s mission and values, and I was interested right away. I knew I had the right skill set and qualifications and decided to apply. I am glad that I heard from you.”

Sample Answer 2: “I heard about this position from a current employee working in your company who suggested that I apply. After checking out the job description and doing some research about the company, I decided to apply and was delighted when I heard from your hiring team.”

2. Job Portals

Here are some sample responses if you apply for a job through job portals:

Sample Answer 1: “For some time now, I have been actively searching for job roles that would be compatible with my skill set and abilities. I came across this position on [job portal name], and it quickly caught my eye. I was confident that my skills and experience could meet the criteria and provide great potential for career growth. I am glad that I got the opportunity for the interview.”

Sample Answer 2: “I came across your job posting on Internshala. After gaining considerable experience in a start-up company, I wish to work for an MNC. It will provide me with better opportunities to develop my skills and take on more challenging roles. I am confident that I will be an asset to your company.”

Take a look at the best job portals in India to expedite your job search process.

3. Company’s Career Site

Consider the following sample responses to answer the question, “How did you hear about this position?”

Sample Answer 1: “I was researching online about the best digital marketing agency to work with. I found your company’s website and came across an opening that I felt perfectly aligned with my digital marketing expertise. I am pleased that my application was noticed and that I was given a chance to appear for the interview.”

Sample Answer 2: “Ever since I graduated from college and finished an internship, I have been wanting to apply for a position in your company. I have been keeping a tab on your career page to find the right opportunity, and as soon as there was a job opening suitable for me, I applied for it.”

4. Networking

Here are sample answers if you are applying through some networking channel.

Sample Answer 1: “I have been actively networking at various career-related events. At one of these events, I mentioned that I was looking for a job, and one of my peers who now works at your company recommended this particular role and suggested I apply.”

Sample Answer 2: “I found out about this available position through my professional network. One of your employees was connected to me through a mutual contact. I reached out to this person a few times in search of an opportunity at your company. As soon as I learned about this job, I applied right away.”

“How Did You Hear About This Position?” Answer for Freshers

If you are a fresher and looking for a suitable job vacancy or jobs for freshers, it is extremely important to prepare well for the interview questions. Here are sample answers if you are asked the question, “How did you find this job?”

Sample Answer 1: “I heard about this position through my college career services office. They shared the job posting with me and I felt that it was a great fit for my academic background and career interests.”

Sample Answer 2: “I found out about this job through a career counsellor, who alerted me to the job opening. I was impressed by the company’s commitment to innovation in the product management domain as I browsed the company’s website. I knew it would be a great opportunity for me to work here if I was selected.”

The Hidden Meaning Behind “How Did You Hear About This Position?”

Many employers ask this question to gain insight into the applicant’s job search process. Here are the reasons that clarify the hidden meaning behind asking this question.

1. Test the Level of Applicant’s Interest

The effort you put into finding and applying for a job says a lot about how much you want the job. It also shows that you are willing to go the extra mile and take the initiative to find opportunities. This way, the employer determines if you will take the job offer seriously.

2. Understand Applicant’s Dedication to the Job

The how you heard about this position interview question gives the employer an indication of whether you are proactive or passive in your job hunt. They want to know if you have researched the company, invested time in understanding the job role, and are eager to work for the company. Your response will demonstrate your commitment to the job.

3. Determine Applicant’s Willingness to Take Initiative

When the employer can gauge your enthusiasm for the position, it gives them an indication of how you will approach the responsibilities of the role. Your answer will convey your attitude and willingness to take initiative and tackle difficult tasks.

4. Identify the Right Job Portal for Employers

The employer is also interested in learning, on their part, which job posting platform is working best for them. Helping the applicant find the job they are applying for is the first step of a successful hiring process.

This can help the employer decide which job portals are effective in bringing in potential talent, saving the employer’s time and resources in the future.

To answer other interview questions more confidently, you can consider taking an online course on internships and job preparation.

Mistakes to Avoid When Answering “How Did You Hear About This Position?”

When answering the question, “How did you hear about this position?” during a job interview, it is important to keep in mind that this question is an icebreaker and an opportunity to showcase your proactive approach and genuine interest in the position. Here are some key points to remember and mistakes to avoid while answering:

1. Provide Specific Answers: Avoid giving vague responses such as “online” or “through a friend.” Instead, provide details about how you found out about the position. For example, you could mention that you found the job posting on the company’s website or that you came across it while networking with professionals in your field.
2. Be Authentic: Avoid fabricating stories about how you learned about the position. Interviewers can often sense when a candidate is being disingenuous. Stick to the truth and be authentic. If you’re not sure about how you learned about the position, you can politely say that you don’t remember the exact source, but you’re excited about the opportunity.
3. Mention Professional Contacts: If you heard about the position from someone who works at the company, mention their name. This demonstrates your networking efforts and genuine interest in the role. It also shows that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the company and the position.
4. Show Enthusiasm: Employers want passionate individuals who are excited about the opportunity. Talk about what excites you about the company culture or the responsibilities of the role. Show enthusiasm for the position and the company. This will help set you apart from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the job.

Conclusion

While answering the interview question, “How did you hear about this position?” ensure that you respond confidently and accurately. The question may seem unconventional as an interviewee, however, it is important to know that the answer to the question reveals your enthusiasm and commitment to the role you’re applying for.

If you found this blog helpful, refer to our blog on how to answer why should we hire you.

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