Answering the question ‘Why should we hire you?’

Q. I am interviewing for a new job and was asked, “Why should we hire you?” Not to be disrespectful, but this is an hourly gig at a grocery store stocking shelves. I was in tech and recently laid off so I’m game to do something — anything — to get back on my feet. What should I have said?

A. First, I’m sorry to hear about your layoff. Second (and I’ll get to your question in a moment, promise), it’s great you’re open to do anything to get back on your feet. You’ll gain new skills, new connections and earn money while looking for your new full-time job.

Now, to your question. For any job (yes, this includes hourly temporary part-time roles) hiring managers typically take it as seriously as they do full-time employment. They want to see if you have the skills to succeed and if you would be a cultural fit. While the ramp-up time and assimilation are usually a lot faster in a part-time gig compared to full-time role, candidates such as yourself should prepare for the interview as if it’s your dream full-time job. Take it seriously. Be ready to ace it by highlighting your transferable skills, ability to learn and roll up your sleeves.

Q. My son is interviewing at my employer. We would potentially even be in the same department! While I love him, of course, I need some separation (he still lives at home with us in his 20s). What should I tell him?

A. Many companies have nepotism rules that are either in the HR manual or an unwritten rule that immediate relatives cannot work alongside each other in the same department. If you have different last names, it may be more challenging for the employer to discern this, but your son should be upfront with the interviewers with full transparency.

There may be opportunities to work adjacent to your department so he’s not directly in the same department as you. You probably don’t want to thwart his success, so I strongly suggest he disclose this piece of information, and let the job interview process take its course.

Vicki Salemi is a career expert, former corporate recruiter, author, consultant, speaker, and career coach. Send your questions to [email protected]. For more information and to subscribe to Vicki’s newsletter, visit www.vickisalemi.com and follow her on Twitter and Instagram @vickisalemi.