“Why should we hire you?”
It’s one of those questions that feels weird at first, almost like you have to pitch yourself as a product. The more I’ve been asked this (directly or indirectly), the more I’ve learned it’s not a trap but a test of clarity.
Let me break down how I think about it, and how I’d answer it if a founder, team lead, or client asked me today.
🧠 First: It’s not just about skills
Everyone you’re up against probably ticks the skill boxes. That’s not the hard part.
Clients and founders are asking:
- Can you actually help us reach our goals?
- Will you work like a partner, not a task-taker?
- Will you save us from wasting time or money?
Your answer needs to make them feel understood — and show how you’ll be useful.
💡 Here’s how I answer it
I’ve done my research on [your product, mission, and the users you’re building for] — and as someone who’s worked on both the business and user side of similar products, I work closely with teams to build the right features that solve real user and business problems, faster.
In past roles, I contributed to product planning, shaped business decisions, and aligned dev work with company goals — which led to referrals and repeat contracts.
That’s the kind of value I’d bring here.
I ask the right questions, anticipate blockers, simplify complex ideas, communicate clearly, and document well — so teams don’t just build faster, they build smarter.
🛠 Want to write your own version?
Try answering these 3 prompts:
- What pain do you remove for your clients?
- What’s something clients say after working with you?
- What makes your work smooth and reliable — not just “done”?
Put those into a 1-2 sentence value statement.
That’s your answer. Keep it honest. Keep it sharp.
🧩 Final thought
“Why should we hire you?” isn't an insult.
It’s an opportunity to position yourself — not just as a service provider, but as someone who gets it.
You don’t need the flashiest portfolio.
You just need to show you’re the calm, reliable hand in a noisy, risky process.
✍️ I write about freelancing, software, and working better with clients. Follow me on X or check my other blogs on client communication and building products that work.
Top comments (0)