Why choose us and not our competitor who is leading?

Question

So i am trying to structure a reply to the expected question why us? We assume that we have 2 large conglomerates one is global leader in the field the other is the 2nd largest by a large difference. Info online is very scarce as to where they differ, but in the country i am applying they trade different products. I am just trying to cover any aspects of the question that might be more challenging. Besides the classics. Thank you all.

Answer 1

Hi Maria,

I would consider the following elements to provide reasons on why you should consider a particular company:

Sectors of interest: specific focus of the company in areas/products interesting for you
People you met and culture: specific people of the company you discussed with, and the things they shared on the company
Your growth opportunities: specific programs of the company you heard about to enhance your growth
Company potential: how much the company grew in the last year, which is a good guarantee for your future career as well
Size/reputation of the firm: smaller companies usually offer a more entrepreneurial culture, with higher growth potential internally. Bigger companies have more resources and support staff, and more prestige in terms of exit.

You may choose the three points more relevant for you and structure your answer accordingly.

Whatever topic you choose, you should apply a simple rule of thumb: if you can substitute the name of the company with another and have the answer that still makes sense, it means your answer is not specific enough. To be specific, you should talk about growth rates/specific people you talked to/specific research paper you read on the company. Yes, it will require some time spent to prepare this question in this way. But will also allow you to stand out, as very few people invest time preparing on this.

Hope this helps,
Francesco

Answer 2

Hi Maria,

You can talk the reasons why you want to join company X - you don't have to name the reasons why you don't want to join company Y.

E.g. I prioritize company X for 3 reasons:

1- Culture. Spoke with xyz persons and learned about the culture. See myself as a fit. 2- Personal development. I know that at company X I will be able to develop myself personally and professionally. 3- Affinity with the products

Does this help?

Best, Aws

Answer 3

Hi,

"Why this company" is a more specific question and can include the following arguments:

The general marketing story the company is trying to sell (e.g. Bain is a small "Family" company)
Brand / positioning / market share in the region
More clients / projects / expertise in the industry you are interested in
More well-known stories of success in your city
Your friends working there
Your interactions with the other consultants before the interview
Your prior experience of working with the Firm on a client side
Office traditions
Work experience with firm alumni
etc

Best!