What do you know about our company?

GENERAL INTERVIEW QUESTION

By Christophe Paka | April 15, 2025 | 4 min read

   

Unlocking the Secrets Behind the "What Do You Know About Our Company?" Interview Question 🚀

Have you ever been in an interview and been hit with the seemingly simple yet profoundly challenging question, "What do you know about our company?" If so, you're not alone. This question is one of the common interview questions that can make or break your chance of landing your dream job. But fear not—we’re here to help you master it, one step at a time.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the purpose behind this frequently asked question, offer interview answer tips using the STAR method, and provide a curated guide for job interview preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a fresh job seeker, these career interview strategies and interview coaching tips will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to shine.

Introduction: Why This Question Matters 💡

What Is the Interview Question About?

When an interviewer asks, "What do you know about our company?" they are looking beyond a simple recitation of facts. They want to see how much company research for interviews you've conducted and whether you're genuinely enthusiastic about their mission and values. This question tests:

  • Your level of preparation: Have you done your homework?
  • Your understanding: Do you grasp the company's vision, mission, and culture?
  • Your commitment: Are you passionate about the role and the company?

Variations of the Question

Though the wording might change, the underlying question typically remains the same. Variations include:

  • "Can you tell us what attracted you to our organization?"
  • "What do you think our company does?"
  • "Why are you interested in our company?"

Each version is a gateway for you to showcase your research, strategic thinking, and genuine interest. With the right approach, you can turn this question into an opportunity to spotlight your interview success tips!

The Ultimate Strategy: The STAR Method 🎯

One of the top interview techniques is to use the STAR method to frame your answer. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It not only helps you share your insights in a logical and compelling way but also demonstrates your problem-solving abilities.

Breaking Down the STAR Method

  • Situation: Describe the context or the scenario.
  • Task: Explain what needed to be done.
  • Action: Discuss what steps you took.
  • Result: Share the outcome of your actions.

Example of a Good Answer:

"I read about your company's commitment to sustainability. This really intrigued me, so I decided to research further into your innovative recycling program. I discovered that your initiatives led to a 20% reduction in waste last year, which really impressed me. This shows how your company not only talks about environmental responsibility but also takes action in tangible ways."

Analysis:

  • Situation: Discovering the company’s sustainability commitment.
  • Task: Researching the initiative.
  • Action: Investigating the recycling program in detail.
  • Result: Acknowledging the concrete results of the initiative.

Avoiding the Pitfalls: A Bad Answer

Contrast the above with a vague response:

"I know you're a big company that's been around for a while."

Analysis:

  • This answer is too general and lacks specifics.
  • It fails to demonstrate any deep engagement or company research for interviews.
  • There’s no evidence of the STAR method being applied.

Crafting the Perfect Answer: Step-by-Step Guide 🔍

Now that you understand the theory behind the question, let’s build your job seekers interview guide to answer it spectacularly. Follow these steps to prepare your standout response:

1. Research Extensively

Before your interview, dive deep into the company’s background. Find out about:

  • History & Mission: Understand when the company was founded and why.
  • Values & Culture: What do they stand for? What is their work culture like?
  • Products & Services: Get a good grasp of what they offer.
  • Recent News & Initiatives: Look up their latest projects, innovations, or sustainability efforts.

Pro Tip: Use the company’s website, recent press releases, social media channels, and platforms like LinkedIn to gather insights. This not only prepares you for the question but also provides examples to illustrate your response.

2. Apply the STAR Method

When preparing your answer, structure it according to the STAR method:

  • Situation: Mention how you first heard about the company or an initiative that caught your interest.
  • Task: Describe what you did to learn more about that initiative or the company as a whole.
  • Action: Explain the steps you took to research, such as reading articles, watching interviews, or analyzing market trends.
  • Result: Highlight what you learned and why it resonated with you, linking it back to how you can contribute to the company.

3. Customize Your Answer

Tailor your response to mirror the company’s values and culture. Think of it as aligning your personal mission with theirs. Employers appreciate candidates who show they are a good cultural fit. Some strategies for customization include:

  • Relating your skills and experiences: Explain how your background makes you the perfect match for the company’s current challenges or future goals.
  • Highlighting your enthusiasm: Show your genuine excitement about the possibility of contributing to the company’s success.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice!

Rehearse your answer multiple times, but avoid sounding robotic. Your answer should feel natural and engaging, so consider:

  • Preparing bullet points rather than a memorized script.
  • Engaging in mock interviews with a friend or mentor.
  • Recording yourself to refine your tone, body language, and eye contact.

Remember: The goal is to sound sincere and knowledgeable, leaving a lasting positive impression on your interviewer.

Examples of Effective and Ineffective Responses

To help illustrate the difference between a stellar and a subpar response, let’s take a closer look.

Effective Response Example

Context: An applicant applying for a role in a tech startup.

  • Situation: "I was really impressed when I read how your company is not only pioneering innovative AI solutions but also emphasizing ethical AI practices."
  • Task: "I explored your online resources, including your blog posts and customer testimonials, to get a clearer picture of your impact."
  • Action: "I engaged with several articles about your latest product launch, attended your recent webinar, and connected with a few current employees on LinkedIn to understand the company culture better."
  • Result: "This thorough research convinced me that your commitment to quality and ethics in technology aligns perfectly with my professional values and career ambitions."

Why It Works:

  • Uses the STAR method effectively.
  • Clearly shows initiative and deep company research for interviews.
  • Presents a well-rounded and enthusiastic approach that directly ties personal values to the company’s mission.

Ineffective Response Example

Context: An applicant for a similar role.

  • General Answer: "I know your company is doing great work in technology, and you’re well-known in the industry."

Why It Falls Short:

  • Lacks detail and specificity.
  • Does not follow a structured approach like the STAR method.
  • Fails to demonstrate personal engagement or understanding of the company’s culture and achievements.

Tips to Ensure Interview Success 🎉

Preparing an answer for this question isn’t just about memorizing facts; it’s about strategy, authenticity, and engagement. Here are some additional interview answer tips to ensure you’re ready:

  • Show Genuine Interest:
    Employers want you to be excited about working with them. A well-researched answer shows that you are not just looking for any job, but rather a role that aligns with your aspirations.

  • Balance Overload of Information:
    While details matter, too much information can overwhelm your answer. Stick to 2-3 key points that highlight your research and enthusiasm.

  • Keep It Succinct:
    Your response should be concise and to the point. Practice delivering a dynamic answer within 1-2 minutes, ensuring that every word counts.

  • Tailor Your Tone:
    Match the company’s style. If the company values innovation and creativity, let your personality shine through. If it’s more formal, lean towards a more professional tone.

  • Be Ready for Follow-Up Questions:
    Your initial answer might spark more questions. Be prepared to dive deeper into your research or discuss how your skills align with their projects.

  • Stay Updated:

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Christophe Paka