Why Should We Hire You? A Lesson from Bill Gates
Have you ever stumbled over the classic interview question: “Why should we hire you?” In 2020, NBA superstar Stephen Curry invited Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates onto his YouTube show State of Inspiration to role-play a job interview. Curry asked him the very same question from the perspective of a young software engineer. Gates’s response, both genuine and strategic, offers timeless advice for job seekers everywhere.
1. Let Your Passion and Skills Shine Through
Rather than giving a rehearsed pitch, Gates leaned into authenticity:
He explained that employers could look at the code he had written, showing how he had gone beyond the classroom into actual software development. He emphasized that he had grown better with time.
This showed not just technical proficiency but also a commitment to continuous improvement. That blend of ability and growth mindset is what makes an answer truly compelling.
2. Embrace Teamwork (Even with Honest Criticism)
Gates didn’t shy away from admitting that he could sometimes critique code harshly. But he balanced this by highlighting his strong belief in teamwork and in working toward big, ambitious goals.
This balance of confidence and humility painted him as a candidate who could lead, collaborate, and deliver results.
3. Be Honest About What You Aren’t—and Where You Shine
When asked about strengths and weaknesses, Gates was frank. He admitted that he wasn’t naturally strong in marketing or sales. However, he underlined his passion and skill in product vision and development.
By spotlighting both his limitations and his core strengths, Gates demonstrated honesty and self-awareness—qualities every employer values.
4. Negotiate Wisely by Betting on the Future
On the topic of salary expectations, Gates made a powerful point. Instead of focusing on cash, he said he would prefer stock options, showing his belief in the company’s future and his willingness to grow with it.
This reflected long-term thinking, commitment, and an entrepreneurial mindset—traits that stand out in any candidate.
5. The Core Message: Confidence, Integrity, and Vision
What stood out most in Gates’s responses was his ability to project confidence without arrogance, integrity without fear, and vision without over-promising. His answers reflected passion, self-awareness, and a hunger to learn—qualities that employers find irresistible.
Your Takeaway: A Framework for Your Own Answer
Here’s a simple structure based on Gates’s approach:
1. Showcase Your Unique Qualification
“I’ve built [specific example], and I get better every day.”
2. Highlight Collaborative Strength
“I may push hard on ideas, but I’m committed to team success and bold goals.”
3. Be Real About Weaknesses
“I’m not strong in [area], but I excel at [area of strength].”
4. Signal Long-Term Alignment
“I’m invested in our future—long-term growth matters more to me than short-term perks.”
5. Wrap with Enthusiasm
“I’m excited to grow, contribute, and evolve with your team.”
Conclusion
Bill Gates’s mock interview wasn’t just entertaining—it was deeply instructive. It reminds us that authenticity, self-awareness, team orientation, and long-term thinking resonate far more powerfully than memorized answers.
So the next time you’re asked, “Why should we hire you?”, remember Gates’s approach: speak with clarity, honesty, and passion.
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