What the Hiring Manager Is Really Asking…

In asking this question, interviewers are judging if you are an active or passive job seekers. Those who appear eager for the position may be perceived as more willing to put forth the needed effort to fulfill the position. Considering this, you want to be strategic in the way you answer this question.

• Why do you think this is important for interviewers to know?
• How did you hear about this job?
• Think about how you could frame this answer to put you in the best possible light.

Points to Emphasize

Depending upon how you heard about the position, there are different ways that you can answer the question. Still, there are certain points to mention that can help you to properly answer such type of inquiry.

• Clearly state the source from which you heard of the position, but do not go into elaborate detail, other than the name of the individual, company or resource.
• Explain what aspects drew you to the position.
• Briefly state why you feel qualified for the job.
• Express your excitement about the possibility of obtaining the position.

• Think about the emotions you had when you initially saw the job posting. If it made you genuinely excited or happy, tell the employer!
• Write down three reasons you feel qualified for the job.
• Write down three things that drew you to this job.

Mistakes You Should Avoid

Review these mistakes to avoid when answering this question.

• Even if you heard about the position from an employee, do not go into great detail about your relationship with that employee.
• Do not give vague one word answers.
• If you do not recall what job board you found the position through, do not dwell on that fact or make something up.
• If you heard of a job from an employee who is on rocky terms with the company or recently departed on negative terms, do not mention their name.

• Try to establish a personal connection with the job (although not too personal).
• Is this company a place that you’ve had your eye on for a long time?
• Has working here been a long term goal?

Sample Answer

One way to properly answer inquiries about how you heard about the position might be:

“I heard about this position through a current employee, Jane Doe. She was a previous co-worker of mine at XYZ Company where I served as a project manager. After reviewing the position and researching the company, I felt qualified to fulfill the position and excited about the possibility of joining such a reputable company.”

Remember, the question is asking more than just who sent you. Make sure that you address why you applied to the position and how you qualify. Addressing these things can help to avoid certain additional questions and possibly help you to secure the position.

• Write the first draft of your answer with your tutor.
• Are there any words or phrases that you are not comfortable pronouncing?
• Now rehearse with your tutor until you are comfortable answering the question without the script.