This question has haunted me for ages. Especially, if you’re a fresher. Without years of work experience, it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to answer.
But here’s the thing: you have unique qualities and skills that can make you stand out. Here, we will try to walk through some of the ways on how to confidently answer this question, even if you are new to the professional world.
1. Your Willingness to Learn
As a fresher, you may not have years of experience, but you do have an advantage: a willingness to learn. This is super underrated. Employers always value candidates who are open-minded and eager to grow because these qualities make them come to a decision quickly.
When answering, try saying something like:
“I am a quick learner who is genuinely interested in [try industry or field]. I am excited to apply my skills while learning from this role and growing within your company.”
This response shows that you are trainable, adaptable and ready to tackle new challenges, which is exactly what most companies look for.
2. Talk About Your Education and Relevant Skills
Just because you are new to the job market doesn’t mean you don’t have skills. Think about your education, training, internships, or volunteer experiences that taught you valuable lessons.
Make sure that you have thought of specific skills related to the job, this is the time to mention them. Here’s an example:
“During my studies in [skills of your field, e.g., marketing], I gained skills in [relevant skills like project management or data analysis]. I believe these skills will help me contribute to your team right away.”
This lets employers know you have foundational knowledge to build upon, and it shows you are serious about using it in a real-world setting.
3. Enthusiasm for the Role and Company
Employers want to hire someone who is genuinely interested in their company and what it does. Do a lot of research on the company before your interview so you can show excitement about joining. Here’s how you could phrase it:
“I have always admired [something specific about the company, like its mission or recent projects]. I am enthusiastic about the chance to be part of a team that’s making a difference, and I think I can bring a fresh perspective to help achieve that goal.”
This shows your potential employer that you are not just looking for any job – you’re specifically excited about working for them and you are detailed enough to do your homework.
4. Soft Skills
Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are key, especially if you are just starting out. Even without a lot of work experience, you have probably developed these skills through group projects, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities. Here’s an example:
“I am a strong team player and communicator. In college, I often worked in groups to complete assignments, which taught me how to share ideas, listen to others, and solve problems together. I am confident I can bring that same team spirit to your company.”
Employers appreciate candidates who can communicate and work well with others. You can give some examples of how you tackled some situations in a non professional setting,These qualities are often just as important as technical skills.
5. Be Honest About Your Fresh Start
There is no need to hide the fact that you are a fresher. Be honest about it, and emphasise your eagerness to start your professional journey. Be yourself and shine.