Navigating the HR Trick Question: Why Wouldn’t You Want to Work Here?

Have you ever faced a situation where an HR representative asked you this tricky question, “Why wouldn’t you want to work here?” It’s a common practice in job interviews, especially in the tech industry, where Sales Development Rep roles are highly sought after. Whether this question is intended to trip you up or to find out if you have any real concerns, here’s how to handle it and what you can learn from it.

Understanding the Question

At first glance, this question might seem like a trick designed to catch you off guard. However, it’s not necessarily a trap. HR might be using this question to gauge your true feelings about the job or the company. The intention is to get a genuine answer, not a superficial one.

Dean Kulaweera suggests that it might indeed be a straightforward question meant to uncover any reasons potential candidates might have for disliking the role. This can help the company make a more informed decision regarding the fit of the candidate with their organization.

Dealing with Uncomfortable Questions

It’s important to be honest and upfront when answering such questions. If you feel uncomfortable or think the question is inappropriate, it’s perfectly acceptable to express that feeling. Here’s how you can approach it:

State that you are uncomfortable with the wording of the question. Explain that you prefer a question that focuses on positives, like, "Why do you want to work here?" Suggest that listing the positive aspects of the role can help create a more positive and engaging interview experience.

It’s also crucial to consider the company culture and the logistics of the job. If the working environment, location, or other aspects are not suitable for you, it’s important to address it without being overly negative.

What to Say: A Positive Approach

Even if you are uncomfortable with the question, it’s important to respond in a way that doesn’t put the HR representative on the back foot. Here’s a suggested response:

"Thank you for asking. I appreciate the opportunity to be open and honest. Personally, I am very excited about the role and the company. However, I feel that asking why I wouldn’t want to work here might create unnecessary tension. I believe it would be more constructive to explore the reasons why I do want to work here and why I am a good fit for the team."

Such a response shows that you are proactive in ensuring a positive interview experience for both parties. It also highlights your enthusiasm for the role and your willingness to contribute positively to the team.

Further Discussion with HR

If the HR representative continues with the uncomfortable question, you can take it a step further by asking for clarification or suggesting an alternative approach. For example, you can say:

"I’m really interested in discussing what aspects of this role and company excite me. Perhaps we can focus on what I can bring to the team and why I am a good fit."

This shows that you are open to constructive feedback and are willing to have an honest discussion about your fit for the role.

Conclusion

The next time you encounter a tricky HR question, remember that it’s okay to be honest and to advocate for a positive and constructive interview environment. A positive attitude can make all the difference in how you come across to potential employers and how the company perceives your abilities and fit within the team.

By answering such questions with honesty and clarity, you can demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to the success of the role. Whether it’s a Sales Development Rep position or any other role in the tech industry, taking the right approach can help you build a strong foundation for your future career.